Introduction to Networking
Computer networking is the practice of connecting multiple computing devices—such as PCs, servers, routers, and IoT gadgets—to facilitate communication and resource sharing over wired or wireless links Think of networks as digital road systems where nodes (devices) exchange data via links, following agreed-upon rules called protocols
5. Mesh Topology
A mesh topology is a network configuration where every device is interconnected with every other device. This creates a highly redundant and reliable network with multiple paths for data to travel. Devices are interconnected, with multiple paths between nodes. Can be full mesh (every device connects to all others) or partial mesh.
Characteristics:
1. Highly reliable due to redundant paths.
2. Common in critical infrastructure (e.g., backbone networks).
Advantages: It's highly fault-tolerant; if one connection fails, data can simply be rerouted through another path. This redundancy makes it very reliable and secure. It also allows for high-speed data transfer between devices.
Disadvantages: It's extremely expensive and complex to install and maintain because it requires a huge amount of cabling and a large number of connections