What network topology connects all devices to a central hub?

The star topology is characterized by all devices in the network being connected to a central hub or switch. This central device acts as a repeater for the data flow, allowing any device to communicate with any other device in the network by sending data to the hub, which then routes the information to the intended recipient. This design provides several advantages, such as easier addition and removal of devices without disrupting the network, as well as centralized management.

In contrast, other topologies have different connection structures. For example, mesh topology involves each device being connected to multiple other devices, creating a web-like structure that can provide redundancy but is more complex and costly to implement. Ring topology connects each device to exactly two others, forming a circular pathway for data, which can lead to issues if one device fails. Bus topology utilizes a single communication line to which all devices are connected, which can cause collisions and is less reliable as the number of devices increases, making it less favorable for many environments.

The centralized nature of the star topology simplifies troubleshooting and ensures that if one connection fails, it does not affect the entire network, enhancing overall network reliability. This is why the correct answer for the network topology that connects all devices to a central hub is indeed star topology.