Which topology is often chosen for fault tolerance because devices have multiple redundant interconnections?

• A. Star Topology
• B. Bus Topology
• C. Mesh Topology
• D. Hybrid Topology

Answer: (C)

Redundancy and alternate paths determine fault tolerance in a network. Mesh topology is designed so devices have multiple interconnections, giving many possible routes between any two devices. If a link or device fails, traffic can be rerouted through other paths, keeping communication going. That is why mesh is favored for fault-tolerant designs, especially in environments that require high availability. Keep in mind that full mesh provides maximum redundancy—every device connects to every other—while partial mesh offers some redundancy with fewer connections. In contrast, star has a single central hub (a failure here can disrupt the whole network), and bus relies on a single backbone. Hybrid mixes topologies but isn’t inherently as fault-tolerant as mesh.