Ethernet was initially developed using which type of architecture?

Ethernet was initially developed using a bus architecture, which is characterized by a single central cable (the bus) to which all network devices are connected. In this setup, data is sent through the bus and can be received by any device that is connected to it. This architecture allowed for a simple and cost-effective means of connecting multiple devices within a localized area, such as within an office or a building.

In a bus topology, overall network simplicity was a significant advantage during Ethernet's early development, making it easier for installations and expansions. However, it is important to note that the bus topology also had limitations regarding data collisions and the inability of the network to handle high traffic, which led to the evolution of other architectures like star topology in later Ethernet implementations.

The other options represent different network topologies: mesh involves multiple connections between devices for redundancy and reliability, star connects all devices to a central hub or switch, and point-to-point provides a direct link between two network nodes. However, none of these were the foundational architecture for the early iterations of Ethernet, thereby solidifying bus architecture as the correct answer.