Terminology » Networking Basics » STAR vs MESH Network Topologies: Key Differences

STAR vs MESH Network Topologies: Key Differences

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This article compares Star and Mesh network topologies, highlighting their differences in a tabular format. We’ll explore these topologies with a focus on their application in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

STAR Network Topology

The figure below illustrates a single star topology network configuration. In this setup, each UAV is directly connected to the ground station. Another configuration is a multi-star configuration where UAVs form multiple star configurations. In this variation, one node from each star topology group connects to the ground station.

Star topology tends to have higher latency, and its operation heavily depends on the ground station’s functionality.

Image Alt: STAR vs MESH

MESH Network Topology

There are primarily two types of Mesh topologies:

Flat Mesh: In this type, all nodes are interconnected, and at least one node is connected to the ground station.
Hierarchical Mesh: This configuration involves several mesh groups organized in different hierarchies. A node from the mesh group at the lowest hierarchy connects to the ground station.

Mesh topologies offer greater flexibility, reliability, and security compared to star topologies.

Tabular Difference between Star Network and Mesh Network

The following table summarizes the key differences between Star and Mesh network topologies:

Feature	STAR Network	MESH Network
Connection Type	Point to Point Connection between nodes	Multi-point to multi-point connection between nodes
Infrastructure	Infrastructure based	Infrastructure or Ad hoc based
Control	Central control point is present	Infrastructure based networks have a control center, while Ad hoc based networks do not.
Configuration	It is not self configuring.	It is self configuring.
Communication Hops	Single hop from node to central point	Multi hop communication
Node Mobility	Devices or nodes cannot move freely.	In Ad hoc mode, devices are autonomous and free to move. In Infrastructure mode, movement of nodes is restricted around the control center.
Link Configuration	Links between nodes and central control are fixed.	Inter node links are intermittent.
Data Transmission	Nodes communicate via control center.	Nodes relay traffic for other nodes on the path.