The kinds of networks that would use point-to-point, hub-and-spoke, or mesh topologies are typically Wide Area Networks (WANs).
- Point-to-point topology is used to establish a dedicated communication link between two devices, offering a simple, reliable, and direct connection. It is common for small-scale or simple networks and for technologies such as leased lines or direct cable connections. It provides high data transfer rates and low latency but is not suitable for large or complex networks due to scalability issues.
- Hub-and-spoke topology, also known as star topology, is used in networks where a central node (hub) connects to multiple devices (spokes). This design is common in corporate networks or service provider networks where the hub manages traffic and connections. It allows centralized control and easier management of the network.
- Mesh topology is used for large, reliable networks where each node connects to multiple other nodes. This provides redundancy and fault tolerance, making it suitable for large corporate networks, the internet backbone, military communications, and other scenarios requiring high availability. Mesh networks handle large numbers of devices with multiple paths for data to travel, reducing downtime if one link fails.
In summary, these topologies are most commonly used in WANs for different purposes: point-to-point for direct device-to-device links, hub-and-spoke for centralized control networks, and mesh for resilient, large-scale networks.
