TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

What network topology provides redundancy for a failed link?

1. Star

2. Tree

3. Mesh

4. Bus

The correct answer is: Mesh

The mesh topology is characterized by its multiple interconnections between devices, allowing for a resilient network structure. In a mesh network, each node typically connects to multiple other nodes, which means that if one link fails, data can be rerouted through alternative paths. This redundancy is crucial for maintaining network reliability, as it minimizes the risk of total network failure. In contrast, the star topology connects all devices to a central hub. If the central hub fails, it disrupts the entire network, which does not provide built-in redundancy for link failures. The tree topology, which combines characteristics of star and bus topologies, also doesn’t inherently provide redundancy in the same way, as issues with the main trunk could still affect connected branches. Lastly, the bus topology has a single central cable, and if that cable fails, all devices dependent on that cable will lose connectivity, providing no redundancy. Thus, the mesh topology's numerous pathways ensure that network communications can continue even if some connections fail, making it the optimal choice for redundancy.