An Ethernet LAN that uses UTP cabling and a hub as the physical medium is referred to as which of the following?

An Ethernet LAN utilizing UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cabling and a hub primarily operates in a star topology. In this configuration, each device is connected to a central hub. This design allows for effective communication and easy management of network devices, as the hub acts as a point for signals to be sent and received. If one cable fails, it only affects the specific device connected to it, rather than disrupting the entire network.

The star topology is characterized by its centralized control at the hub, which simplifies troubleshooting and network management compared to other structures. While the hub does not inherently provide any intelligence for routing, it serves as a conduit for data traveling between devices.

In contrast, other topologies such as ring, bus, and mesh each have distinct configurations that define how devices connect to one another. A ring topology connects devices in a circular pathway; a bus topology uses a single central cable (the bus) for communication, and a mesh topology connects devices in a way that they can communicate with multiple other devices. The star configuration stands out because of the central hub's role and the direct, independent links between devices.