The mesh topology has a distinct network design in which every computer on the network communicates with every other computer. It establishes a P2P (point-to-point) connection between all network devices. It provides a high level of redundancy, so even if one network cable fails, data can still reach its destination via an alternate path.

Peer-to-peer refers to a hierarchical system in which all stations are on the same level. Mesh is a cabling scheme that refers to a many-to-many network. A peer-to-peer network can be linked using bus, ring, or mesh cabling.

To communicate 'off the grid,' devices in a mesh network use Bluetooth peer-to-peer connections and WiFi networks. Engineers originally created the technology for military use. Small-scale projects have had varying degrees of success over the years, but few have made it into the mainstream.

Read More: What are the types of bus topology?