Star topologies are either active or passive networks, depending on the following:

• If the central node performs processes, such as data amplification or regeneration
• If the network actively controls data transit
• If the network requires electrical power sources.

Benefits of a star network topology include the following:

• Has the ability to limit the impact of a single failure. In star networks, a single unit is isolated by its relationship to the central hub, so that if a component goes down, it only affects that unit's local reach.
• Facilitates adding or removing individual components to and from a network, for the same reasons.