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Topology Accuracy 0 / 20
Network Rank Disconnected Node
1 [8 Marks Total]
Scenario: 5 computers and 1 printer connected to a central Switch.
(a) Identify the network topology. [1] (b) Draw this topology. Label Computers, Printer, Switch. [3]
(c) Explain one advantage compared to a Mesh topology. [2] (d) Explain one disadvantage of this topology. [2]
✅ Mark Scheme

(a) Star Topology

(b) Diagram Marks (Max 3):

  • Central Hub/Switch drawn and labelled (1).
  • At least 5 computers + 1 printer drawn (1).
  • All devices connect ONLY to central switch (no daisy chains) (1).

(c) Advantage: Easier to add new devices / Scalable / Cheaper cabling than Mesh (1) because requires less cable (1).

(d) Disadvantage: Reliance on central switch (1); if switch fails, whole network fails (1).

Score yourself (Max 8):
2 [5 Marks Total]
Military research facility using a Full Mesh topology for 6 servers.
(a) Describe a Mesh topology. [2] (b) Explain why Mesh is more robust than Star. [2] (c) State one drawback of wired Full Mesh. [1]
✅ Mark Scheme

(a) All devices connected to every other device (decentralised).

(b) Robustness: No single point of failure (1). Data has multiple routes to destination if one path breaks (1).

(c) Drawback: High cost of cabling / Difficult installation.

Score yourself (Max 5):
3 [5 Marks Total]
Wireless networks using Partial Mesh.
(a) Explain difference between Full and Partial Mesh. [2] (b) Explain how Wi-Fi mesh helps a user walking through a building. [3]
✅ Mark Scheme

(a) Full Mesh connects every device to every other device (1). Partial Mesh connects devices to some, but not all others (1).

(b) Wi-Fi Mesh: Nodes act as signal repeaters extending range (1). Data hops from node to node (1). User stays connected seamlessly without logging in again (1).

Score yourself (Max 5):