TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

What type of physical network topology is implemented in an ad-hoc wireless network without a wireless access point?

1. Star

2. Bus

3. Mesh

4. Ring

The correct answer is: Mesh

In an ad-hoc wireless network, devices connect directly to one another without the need for a central controller or wireless access point. This direct peer-to-peer communication structure effectively forms a mesh topology. Each device in a mesh network can communicate with every other device within the network, allowing for flexible routing of data and redundancy, since multiple paths can exist between any two devices. In contrast, a star topology requires a central hub or switch, which is not present in an ad-hoc configuration, while a bus topology relies on a single cable as a backbone for data transmission, which is also absent in this type of network. Additionally, a ring topology connects devices in a circular configuration where data travels in one direction around the ring, which does not apply to the decentralized nature of ad-hoc networks. Therefore, the characteristics of direct, non-reliant device communication in an ad-hoc network align precisely with a mesh topology, making it the correct answer.