Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to match four common network topologies (List-I) with their primary structural or operational characteristics (List-II).
Step 2: Analysis of the Network Topologies:
Let us analyze each network topology's unique characteristic:
- Star Topology: In a star network, all computers are connected to a central device (like a hub or a switch). If this central device fails, the whole network stops working. This corresponds to characteristic II.
- Ring Topology: In a ring network, devices are linked in a circular loop. Data travels from device to device in a single direction (unidirectional loop). This corresponds to characteristic III.
- Bus Topology: In a bus network, devices share a single main cable (the bus). When a node sends a signal, it travels in both directions along the cable to reach all devices. This corresponds to characteristic I.
- Mesh Topology: In a mesh network, there are redundant connections between nodes. If any single node fails, it does not break the connection between other nodes because alternative routes exist. This corresponds to characteristic IV.
Step 3: Compiling the Match:
Matching the elements together:
- A $\rightarrow$ II
- B $\rightarrow$ III
- C $\rightarrow$ I
- D $\rightarrow$ IV
- Comparing this with the provided options, this matching corresponds directly to option (B). (Option (D) in the original exam paper lists the same sequence and is also correct).
Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct matching sequence is A-II, B-III, C-I, D-IV.
Hence, option (B) is the correct choice.