A star topology is commonly used in a local area network (LAN) configuration. In this setup, all network devices connect to a central hub or switch, which manages data traffic. The star topology simplifies the network design, making it easier to add or remove devices without disrupting the entire network. It also provides fault tolerance; if one connection fails, it does not impact the others. This configuration allows for efficient data transmission and management, as the central hub can efficiently handle multiple connections and provide a clear path for data to travel between devices.