What type of network topology connects all devices to a single central cable?

What type of network topology connects all devices to a single central cable?

• A. Star topology
• B. Mesh topology
• C. Bus topology
• D. Ring topology

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is bus topology. In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable, known as the bus. This configuration allows data to be transmitted along the cable, with each device listening for data that is addressed to it. The simplicity of this setup makes it relatively easy and cost-effective to implement, especially in smaller networks. In a bus topology, the central cable acts as a backbone, and the devices connect to it at various points. Each device can send and receive data over the bus, ensuring that communication can occur throughout the network. However, this type of topology can become problematic if the central cable fails or if many devices are connected, as it can result in data collisions and network performance issues. Other types of topologies, such as star, mesh, and ring, operate differently. For instance, in a star topology, all devices connect to a central hub or switch, which manages the data flow, while mesh topology involves multiple connections between devices for redundancy and reliability. Ring topology connects devices in a closed loop, where data travels in one direction around the ring. Each of these topologies has distinct characteristics and advantages that differ from the bus topology's centralized cable connection approach.

The correct answer is bus topology. In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable, known as the bus. This configuration allows data to be transmitted along the cable, with each device listening for data that is addressed to it. The simplicity of this setup makes it relatively easy and cost-effective to implement, especially in smaller networks.

In a bus topology, the central cable acts as a backbone, and the devices connect to it at various points. Each device can send and receive data over the bus, ensuring that communication can occur throughout the network. However, this type of topology can become problematic if the central cable fails or if many devices are connected, as it can result in data collisions and network performance issues.

Other types of topologies, such as star, mesh, and ring, operate differently. For instance, in a star topology, all devices connect to a central hub or switch, which manages the data flow, while mesh topology involves multiple connections between devices for redundancy and reliability. Ring topology connects devices in a closed loop, where data travels in one direction around the ring. Each of these topologies has distinct characteristics and advantages that differ from the bus topology's centralized cable connection approach.