What is Mesh Topology?

In mesh topology, every device is interconnected to other device through a dedicated point to point link. Mesh network can be LAN, WLAN or VLAN. This topology is mainly used in wireless network. In true mesh topology, every device is connected to other device through a dedicated link.

Mesh Topology

Mesh topology can be of two types:

(1) Full Mesh Topology: In full mesh topology, every device has a connection to another device. The total number of physical link in full mesh topology can be calculated as n(n-1)/2, where n is number of nodes. This formula is because if node 1 is connected to n-1 nodes, node 2 is connected to n-1 nodes and finally node n is connected to n-1 nodes. So we need n(n-1) links and each link allow communication in duplex mode, so we divide the total number of links by 2. 

(2) Partial Mesh Topology: In partial mesh topology, each device is not connected to every other device. But each device is only connected to one or two devices. So, it is less costly. It is a smart way to implement mesh topology.

Advantages of Mesh Topology

- It uses dedicated links, so each link carries only its data load, so it solves the traffic problem.

- Mesh topology is robust. If one links fails, then it doesn't affect the entire system.

- It provides security and privacy because message is transferred through a dedicated link.

- Fault identification and isolation is easy.

- Modification in network doesn't affect the other nodes.

Disadvantages of Mesh Topology

- Installation and reconnection is difficult.

- It requires more physical space to implement, because it requires more cabling.

- Hardware require to connect each link is expensive.

- Maintenance of mesh topology is also difficult.