What type of network topology uses cooperative nodes to maintain connectivity?

A mesh network is characterized by its use of cooperative nodes to maintain connectivity. In this topology, each node is interconnected with one another, either directly or indirectly. This design enhances the resilience and reliability of the network, as data can be routed through multiple paths. If one node fails, the communication can still occur through alternative nodes, which helps ensure continuous network availability.

The cooperative nature of mesh networks allows for dynamic rerouting of data packets, meaning that the network can adapt to changes in connectivity due to node failures or other issues. This robustness is particularly beneficial in environments where constant connection is crucial, such as in military or emergency communications.

Comparatively, other topologies like star, bus, and ring do not exhibit the same level of inherent redundancy and cooperative routing functionalities. In a star network, for instance, all nodes connect to a central hub, and if the hub fails, the entire network goes down. Bus and ring topologies also have inherent vulnerabilities, primarily due to their reliance on a single path for data transmission, which makes them less resilient than mesh networks.