Which network topology provides the greatest redundancy?0.5 MarksBusMeshRingStar

1. Break Down the Problem

To determine which network topology provides the greatest redundancy, we need to understand the characteristics of each given topology: Bus, Mesh, Ring, and Star.

2. Relevant Concepts

• Bus Topology: All devices share a single communication line. If the main cable fails, the entire network goes down, offering low redundancy.
• Mesh Topology: Every device connects to every other device. This provides high redundancy because multiple paths exist for data to travel. Failure of one connection doesn’t affect communication between other devices.
• Ring Topology: Each device is connected in a circular manner. If one device fails, it can disrupt the entire network unless a dual ring is used. Therefore, it provides limited redundancy.
• Star Topology: Each device connects to a central hub. If the hub fails, the entire network fails, offering low redundancy.

3. Analysis and Detail

When analyzing the redundancy of each network topology:

• Bus: Low redundancy; failure of main line affects all nodes.
• Mesh: High redundancy; multiple connections allow for alternate paths.
• Ring: Moderate redundancy; a single point of failure can disrupt the network.
• Star: Moderate redundancy; hub failure affects entire network, but individual connections are secure.

4. Verify and Summarize

From the analysis, Mesh topology clearly stands out as the one with the greatest redundancy because it creates multiple paths for data transmission, thus ensuring that communication can continue despite individual connection failures.

Final Answer

Mesh topology provides the greatest redundancy among the options listed.