A mesh topology is a computer network in which every node has a dedicated point-to-point connection to every other node in the network. A mesh topology has n*(n-1)/2 routes that connect 'n' devices in the network. Mesh topology work on the concept of routes. Message that is to be delivered to the destination can take any possible shortest and easiest routes that it can find.

Mesh Topology

Advantages of Mesh topology

• As it has multiple routes between the source and the destination, if one route fails, there would be a number of other routes through which data transfer can take place.
• Traffic problem is minimized in this topology.
• Troubleshooting is easier compared to other networks like star and ring.
• Heavy load of data transfer has little impact on the performance of this topology.
• This network can be easily expanded without affecting the existing users.

Disadvantages of Mesh topology

• It is expensive as it requires more cable than other topologies.
• Installation is difficult and complicated.

A network topology refers to the interconnection of various nodes of a computer network. In other words, it defines the layout of the various devices that are part of the computer network.Topology is the virtual "shape" of the network, but it may not actually represent the actual physical design of the network that the various devices are connected to each other.
There are two types of network topologies: physical and logical.

A physical topology refers to the physical design of the computer network that includes the computers and other devices, their location and the various cables installed in the network.

A logical topology means the mode of flow of data in the network in contrast to its physical arrangement.

There are mainly six types of network topologies listed as under:

• bus
• star
• ring
• tree
• mesh
• hybrid