A partial mesh topology connects some, but not all, devices directly. It provides selected direct paths without the complete interconnection required by a full mesh. section 15.1
In a campus LAN, access switches commonly connect to each distribution switch but not directly to other access switches. This creates redundancy between layers while limiting unnecessary links. section 15.5 section 15.2.1
Distinguish the pattern from related topologies:
- Star topology connects every device to one central device. section 15.1
- Full mesh directly connects every device to every other device. section 15.1
- Hybrid topology combines partial mesh with other recurring connection patterns. section 15.1
Two-tier campus LAN
With two distribution switches and multiple access switches, each access switch connects to both distribution switches, while the access switches do not connect to one another. The distribution switches themselves form a full mesh. section 15.2.1
Figure 15.1 Common topologies. In a star topology, all devices connect to a central device. In a full mesh, each device is directly connected to each of the other devices. In a partial mesh, only certain devices are directly connected.
Compare star, full-mesh, and partial-mesh connection patterns in one topology diagram. section 15.1
