Mesh or Star networks: differences, advantages and disadvantages of the two topologies

Choosing the type of network topology is an important task, in which the final decision depends on several factors: available budget, the scalability of the solution, support for subsequent network reconfiguration, etc. Let’s analyze Star and Mesh topologies as the most common options.

Star topology

Star topology connects all endpoints through a common point-to-point hub. The central gateway acts as a mediator for data exchange. When transferring data from one device to another, the former first sends data to the central gateway and only then is the data transferred to the destination device.

➕ Advantages of Star topology:

– Easy to add new nodes

– Nodes are isolated from each other

– Cheaper than Mesh topology

– Easy installation and reconfiguration

➖ Disadvantages of Star topology:

– The functioning of the entire system depends on the central gateway

– Scalability depends on the coverage capabilities of the central gateway

– Less robust compared to Mesh topology

Mesh topology

Mesh topology connects all the network nodes to each other without going to the central node like a mesh network, just as the name suggests. Data from one end of the network to the other will be transmitted in packets through all network nodes.

➕ Advantages of Mesh topology:

– High reliability: failure of one node does not affect the entire system

– Larger area can be covered than with Star topology

– Low transmitter power

➖ Disadvantages of Mesh topology:

– Expensive to scale due to the addition of repeaters

– A large number of devices significantly complicate the configuration and maintenance of the network

– Nodes must be constantly active and relay messages

– Large relay traffic through one node can quickly drain its battery

Should Star topology be chosen over Mesh topology?

It depends on the task you want to solve.

For example, Mesh networks, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth can be great options for consumer applications such as smart home, HVAC and lighting automation, where small coverage areas are often required with a limited number of closely spaced devices.

But if you need to connect hundreds or thousands of sensors distributed over geographically dispersed facilities, such as factories, mines, oil fields or commercial buildings, then it is better to choose Star topology, for example, LPWAN, 5G or NB-IoT.