Which of the following best describes how the signal is transported through the network without following the physical path requirements of the peripherals?

The best description of how the signal is transported through the network without adhering to the physical paths of the peripherals is logical topology. Logical topology refers to the way data is transmitted over the network, regardless of the actual physical layout of the devices involved. It essentially outlines the flow of data and how the nodes communicate in the network, focusing on logical connections rather than physical wiring or placement.

For example, in a logical topology, signals might travel through various pathways and can take different routes even if the physical connections depict a different arrangement. This allows for flexibility and efficiency in data transmission, as the logical structure can optimize communication and resource usage irrespective of physical limitations or configurations.

In contrast, physical topology describes the actual layout and arrangement of the network devices and cables, which primarily concerns the physical connections and paths. Hybrid topology combines elements of different topologies, sometimes incorporating both physical and logical elements. Mesh topology involves a network configuration where devices are interconnected, providing multiple pathways for data which aids in redundancy and reliability in communications but doesn't focus on the abstraction of signal transport like logical topology does.