Question

In a ________ topology, if there are n devices in a network, each device has n-1 ports for cables.

• A. Mesh
• B. Bus
• C. Star
• D. Ring

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In computer network topology, a mesh topology is one where all devices are interconnected. This means that every device in the network requires a direct connection to every other device. If there are n devices in the network, each device needs to be connected to n-1 other devices. Therefore, each device will require n-1 ports to accommodate these connections. 

Here are brief descriptions of the topologies given in the options:

• Mesh Topology: Each device is connected to every other device, requiring n(n-1)/2 total cables.
• Bus Topology: All devices share a single communication line.
• Star Topology: Each device is connected to a central hub, not directly to each other.
• Ring Topology: Devices are arranged in a circular format, each connected to two neighbors.

Therefore, in a mesh topology, if there are n devices, each device must have connections to n-1 other devices, which corresponds to the given condition.

Answer 2

The topology described is a Mesh topology.

Additional Context:

• Mesh Topology Characteristics (1):
  • Every device connects to every other device directly
  • Number of connections: n(n-1)/2 (where n = number of devices)
  • Each device requires n-1 ports
  • Example: 4 devices would require 6 total connections

Correct Answer: (1) Mesh