What type of network configuration uses multiple paths for communication?

A mesh network uses multiple paths for communication because it connects all devices to one another, either directly or through one or more intermediate devices. This configuration allows for data to be transmitted via multiple routes, which enhances the reliability and resilience of the network. If one path or connection fails, data can still reach its destination through an alternative path. This feature is particularly valuable for maintaining communication in critical applications where reliability is paramount.

In contrast, other network topologies do not inherently provide multiple communication paths. A star topology connects all devices to a central hub, creating a single point of failure. A bus topology connects devices to a single communication line, which means if that line is disrupted, all devices can lose connectivity. Similarly, a ring topology connects devices in a circular format, where each device is connected to exactly two others. Here, if one connection fails, it can disrupt the entire network. Therefore, the multiple paths characteristic of mesh networks distinguishes them from these other configurations.