The ___ of a network is the logical layout of the cables and devices that connect the nodes of the network.AtopologyBhardwareCprotocolDpayload

The correct answer is A. topology.

Explanation

In the context of networking, "topology" refers to the arrangement or layout of different elements (nodes, links, etc.) within a network. It describes how various cables, devices, and nodes are interconnected. Network topology can take several forms, including star, bus, ring, mesh, and hybrid. Each topology has its own advantages and disadvantages related to performance, scalability, cost, and fault tolerance.

• Hardware refers to the physical components of a network, such as routers, switches, and cables, rather than the arrangement of those components.
• Protocol is a set of rules or standards that dictate how data is transmitted over a network.
• Payload refers to the actual data being transmitted over the network, excluding headers or metadata.

Thus, the logical layout of a network is accurately described as its topology.