How many maximum links can be created in a mesh topology network of n computers?

2018

How many maximum links can be created in a mesh topology network of n computers?

  1. A.

    n

  2. B.

    n-1

  3. C.

    n(n-1)

  4. D.

    n(n-1)/2

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Correct answer: D

In a full mesh topology, every single computer (or node) must be directly connected to every other computer in the network.

  • If you have n computers, each computer needs a connection to all the other computers, which is n - 1 links.

  • If you multiply the number of computers (n) by the links they each need (n - 1), you get n(n - 1).

  • However, a link between Computer A and Computer B is the exact same physical cable as the link between Computer B and Computer A. To avoid counting every cable twice, you have to divide the total by 2.

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