What is a primary characteristic of a bus topology in a LAN configuration?

In a bus topology, all devices connect to a single cable, which serves as the backbone for the network. This means that each device on the network taps into this central cable to communicate with other devices. This characteristic is crucial because it defines how data packets are transmitted; any data sent from a device travels along the bus and can be received by all other devices attached. This configuration is simple and cost-effective due to the limited amount of cabling required.

The other options represent different topologies or concepts. Devices connected in a circle refer to a ring topology, where each device connects to two others, forming a closed loop. The idea that devices act as repeaters pertains to hybrids or setups involving signal boosting rather than a bus network itself. Lastly, having each device with its own dedicated link describes a star topology, where devices communicate through a central hub or switch, contrary to the simplicity and shared medium of a bus setup.