which statement describes an extended star topology?

CCNA 200-301 exam requires a structured exam prep guide to ensure success. A well-designed CCNA 200-301 exam prep guide covers essential networking topics, including network fundamentals, IP services, security, automation, and troubleshooting. High-quality study materials, such as official Cisco certification books, video courses, and practice tests, are crucial for mastering the exam objectives.

Tech Professionals

07 April 2025

Cisco

which statement describes an extended star topology?

Introduction To CCNA 200-301 Exam Prep Guide

Preparing for the CCNA 200-301 exam requires a solid understanding of network topologies, including the extended star topology. If you're using Study4Pass to guide your studies, you’ll need to master key concepts like this to pass the exam confidently.

In this CCNA 200-301 Exam Prep Guide, we’ll explore the extended star topology, its characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and how it compares to other network topologies. By the end, you’ll be able to answer the question: Which statement describes an extended star topology? with ease.

What is a Network Topology?

Before diving into the extended star topology, let’s first define what a network topology is.

Definition: A network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices and connections in a network.

Types of Topologies:

Star
Bus
Ring
Mesh
Hybrid

Extended Star

Understanding these topologies is crucial for the CCNA 200-301 exam, as Cisco tests your ability to recognize and implement them in real-world scenarios.

What is an Extended Star Topology?

Definition

An extended star topology is a variation of the standard star topology, where multiple star networks are interconnected through a central hub or switch.

Key Feature: It consists of multiple layers of star networks connected hierarchically.
Central Device: The core switch or hub acts as the main connection point for secondary switches or hubs.
Scalability: Allows for easier expansion of networks by adding more star networks.

Visual Representation

[Core Switch]
[Switch A] [Switch B] [Switch C]
[Devices] [Devices] [Devices]

Here, the core switch connects multiple secondary switches, each forming its own star network.

Which Statement Describes an Extended Star Topology?

When asked Which statement describes an extended star topology? in the CCNA 200-301 Exam, the correct answer would be something like:

An extended star topology consists of multiple star networks connected hierarchically through a central device, allowing for scalable and manageable network expansion.

Other possible descriptions include:

A network where multiple star topologies are interconnected via a central hub or switch.
A hierarchical star-based network design used in large-scale deployments.

Why is this important for the CCNA exam?

Cisco expects you to differentiate between topologies.

You may encounter simulation questions requiring you to identify or configure such networks.

Advantages of Extended Star Topology

Studying with Study4Pass ensures you grasp both theory and practical benefits. Here’s why extended star topology is useful:

1. Scalability

Easily expandable by adding more switches or hubs.
Ideal for growing businesses.

2. Fault Isolation

If one branch fails, the rest of the network remains unaffected.
Easier troubleshooting compared to bus or ring topologies.

3. Centralized Management

Network admins can monitor and control traffic from the core switch.
Simplifies security policies and updates.

4. High Performance

Reduces collision domains (unlike bus topology).
Efficient data routing with minimal latency.

5. Reliability

Redundancy can be built by adding backup core switches.

Disadvantages of Extended Star Topology

While Study4Pass helps you focus on strengths, knowing weaknesses is equally crucial for the CCNA 200-301 exam.

1. Dependency on Central Device

If the core switch fails, the entire network may go down.
Requires high-quality, redundant hardware.

2. Higher Cost

More cabling and switches increase deployment costs.

3. Complexity in Large Networks

Managing multiple layers can become challenging.

4. Latency in Multi-tiered Networks

Data passing through multiple switches may experience delays.

Extended Star vs. Other Topologies

Topology	Key Feature	Pros	Cons
Extended Star	Multiple star networks connected hierarchically	Scalable, fault isolation	Expensive, complex
Star	Single central hub with connected devices	Simple, easy to manage	Single point of failure
Bus	All devices share a single backbone cable	Cheap, easy setup	Poor scalability, collisions
Ring	Devices connected in a closed loop	No collisions, predictable performance	Failure disrupts entire network
Mesh	Every device connects to every other	Highly reliable, redundant	Expensive, complex cabling

Understanding practical uses helps in the CCNA 200-301 exam and beyond.

1. Enterprise Networks

Large offices use extended star designs for departmental segmentation.

2. University Campuses

Different buildings (labs, libraries) connect via a central data center.

3. ISPs (Internet Service Providers)

Core routers connect regional hubs in a hierarchical manner.

4. Data Centers

Multiple server racks connect to a core switch for efficient traffic routing.

How to Configure an Extended Star Topology? (Lab Scenario)

Since the CCNA 200-301 Certification tests hands-on skills, here’s a basic lab idea:

Steps:

1. Set Up Core Switch (e.g., Cisco Catalyst 3560).

2. Connect Secondary Switches (e.g., Cisco 2960).

3. Attach End Devices (PCs, printers, servers).

4. Configure VLANs for segmentation.

5. Test Connectivity using `ping` and `traceroute

Conclusion

Mastering the concept of extended star topology is essential for anyone preparing for the CCNA 200-301 exam, especially with the help of trusted resources like Study4Pass. This topology combines the simplicity of a traditional star design with the scalability needed for modern networks, making it a common choice in enterprise environments, campuses, and data centers.