A research laboratory is developing a high$-$performance computing $($HPC$)$ system for running

complex simulations and data$-$intensive scientific applications. The current network topology

uses a star topology with a central switch.

$($a$)$ Identify the problems of star topology in terms of bandwidth and routing to support the

high communication demands of the HPC system $.$ Recommend another soluti on to

replace the star topology. Explain your suggestion concerning improved bandwidth and

efficient routing.

$[13$ marks$]$

$($b$)$ Other computer system expert has suggested adopting the fat$-$tree network. Perform a

comparative analysis between your suggested network topology in Q$2($a$)$ and the fattree

network in terms of bandwidth and routing. Conclude your finding.

$[12$ marks$]$