What is Mesh Topology?

Mesh Topology is a network configuration where every device is interconnected with every other device, providing multiple route for data to travel. The nodes are connected to each other completely via a dedicated link during which information travels from nodes to nodes. If a mesh network has N nodes, then there are N(N-1)/2 links. Each computer not only sends its signals but also transfer data from other computers. The connections within the mesh are often wired or wireless. In this article, we will discuss the Mesh Topology in detail.

Types of Mesh Topology

There are two types of Mesh topologies:

• Fully-connected Mesh Topology
• Partially-connected Mesh Topology

Full Mesh Topology

All the nodes within the network are connected with every other If there are n number of nodes during a network, each node will have an n-1 number of connections. A full mesh provides an excellent deal of redundancy, but because it is expensive to implement, it's usually reserved for network backbones. Total number of links required for the mesh topology is [n(n-1)]/2.

Partial Mesh Topology

The partial mesh is more practical as compared to the full mesh. In a partially connected mesh, all the nodes aren't necessary to be connected with one another during a network. Peripheral networks are connected using partial mesh topology.

Applications of Mesh Topology

Below mentioned are some of the applications of Mesh Topology:

• Wireless Networks: Many homes and small office spaces uses Mesh Wifi System for better internet coverage and connectivity.
• Industrial and Manufacturing Networks: Many industries uses mesh topology to control machinery, ensuring better productivity.
• Smart Homes: Some advanced homes also use mesh topology for connecting home appliances like smart lights, security systems, etc.
• Military Communication: Mesh Topology are used in Military Purposes as if one connection fails, then there is always a chance of another connection.

Advantages of Mesh Topology

• In case of failure of a single device, the entire network didn't break.
• There is no traffic problem as there is a dedicated point to point links for every device.
• Mesh Topology provides high privacy and security.
• Data transmission is more consistent because failure doesn’t disrupt its processes.
• Adding new devices won’t disrupt transmission of data.

Disadvantages of Mesh Topology

• Mesh Topology is costly as compared to the other network topologies i.e. star, bus, point to point topology.
• Installation of nodes are difficult in mesh topology.
• Power requirement is higher as all the nodes will need to remain active all the time and share the load.
• Each node requires a extra utility cost.
• More maintenance is required in mesh topology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesh topology is a way to connect devices in a network where each device is linked directly to every other device. This setup is suitable for keeping the network reliable because if one connection breaks, the data can still find another way to reach its destination. As Mesh Topology is expensive and complicated to set up as compared to other network types like star topology, bus topology, etc. But its advantages make it worth considering, especially in situations where constant communication is essential, like in military systems, industrial settings, or smart homes.