hardMultiple Choice
FC0-U71 Practice Question: A technician is configuring a small office…
A technician is configuring a small office network with 15 computers. The computers need to share files and a printer. The technician decides to use a topology where each computer is connected to a central device. Which physical topology is being implemented?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse the logical topology (e.g., Ethernet uses a logical bus) with the physical topology, assuming that because Ethernet uses CSMA/CD, it must be a physical bus, but modern Ethernet networks physically use a star topology with switches.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Star
The star topology connects each computer directly to a central device, such as a switch or hub. This allows all 15 computers to share files and a printer through the central device, making it the correct choice for the described small office network.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Ring
Why it's wrong here
A ring connects each node to two neighbours in a closed loop, with no central device, so it fails the stated requirement. Ring topologies suit environments needing deterministic token-passing access, such as legacy Token Ring or fibre rings; a star, with every computer cabled to a central switch, matches this scenario.
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Mesh
Why it's wrong here
A full mesh links every node to every other node, requiring n(n-1)/2 links — 105 cables for 15 computers — and no central device, contradicting the scenario. Mesh suits small, highly resilient backbones or wireless meshes where redundant paths justify the cabling and port cost; a star matches a central-device layout.
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Bus
Why it's wrong here
A bus uses one shared backbone cable with terminators at each end and taps along its length; no central device exists, so it fails the scenario. Bus topologies suit small, low-cost legacy networks where a single collision domain is acceptable; a star, with each computer cabled to a central switch, is the layout described.
- ✓
Star
Why this is correct
A star topology connects every node to a central device such as a switch, satisfying the requirement that each of the 15 computers links to one central point. This centralised arrangement is the defining characteristic distinguishing star from bus, ring or mesh topologies.
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