Mesh is a type of network topology.
State two characteristics of a mesh topology.
Mark scheme
Award one mark for any of the following up to a maximum of two marks:
- Each node/device has multiple direct connections to other nodes/devices (in a full mesh, every node is connected directly to every other node) (1)
- There is no central device/switch (1)
- Nodes act as routers/relay data for other nodes / data can take multiple/different routes to its destination / data can still be sent if a connection/node fails (1)
- More connections/cables are needed as the number of nodes increases (1)
- The network can be expanded without disrupting existing devices (1)
Allow answers that refer to full or partial mesh.
Allow 'more connections/cables are needed' and 'can be expanded' as characteristics (they may be described as advantages or disadvantages).
Do not accept 'more secure' or 'no collisions' without qualification.
Do not accept 'fast' or 'reliable' without qualification.
Do not accept all devices connect to one main cable (this describes a bus topology).
Do not accept it uses a central switch/hub or data is sent through a central hub (this describes a star topology).
Do not accept 'expensive' without qualification (e.g. because more cables/connections are needed).
Example answers and how they were marked
Each device is connected to several other devices, and data can be sent along more than one route.
Why: Multiple direct connections (1) and data can take multiple routes (1).
There is no central switch.
Why: No central device credited (1), but only one characteristic given.
Data is sent through a central hub.
Why: Misconception: this describes a star topology, not a mesh topology.