In which topology is every node connected directly to every other node?

In a mesh topology, every node is connected directly to every other node in the network. This configuration allows for multiple paths for data to travel, which enhances reliability and fault tolerance. If one connection fails, data can be rerouted through other nodes, ensuring continuous communication.

The direct connections in a mesh topology also facilitate high levels of redundancy, which can be particularly beneficial in environments where network availability is critical. The provision of dedicated links between nodes can also lead to high performance and low latency, as data does not need to pass through intermediate devices.

In contrast, other topologies do not create this level of interconnection. For instance, a star topology features a central hub that all nodes connect to, meaning a direct link between all nodes does not exist. A bus topology connects all devices to a single communication line, while a ring topology connects nodes in a circular arrangement, where each device is only directly connected to two others. This hierarchical and less interconnected structure in those topologies can lead to different performance characteristics and vulnerabilities compared to the highly interconnected mesh layout.