In a bus topology, how are nodes connected?

• A. In a circle
• B. To a centralized switch
• C. To a main cable called the bus
• D. Directly to each other

Answer: (C)

In a bus topology, nodes are connected to a main cable referred to as the bus. This central cable runs the length of the network and serves as a shared communication medium through which all nodes can send and receive data. Each device on the network taps into this main cable to communicate, which minimizes the amount of cable required and simplifies the overall network design.

When a node sends data, it travels along the bus cable and can be accessed by all other connected nodes. However, only the intended recipient processes the data, while all other nodes ignore it. This configuration is straightforward and cost-effective for small networks but can lead to issues like data collisions as more nodes are added, due to the shared nature of the communication medium.

The other connection methods listed would not accurately represent how nodes are arranged in a bus topology. This characteristic of the bus connection is fundamental to understanding the advantages and limitations of this specific topology.