They found the best networks are made from partial loops around the units of the grid, with exactly one side of each loop missing. All of these partial loops link together, back to a central source. These have a low repair cost because if a link breaks, the repair simply involves adding back the missing side of a loop. What’s more, they are resistant to multiple breaks over time, as each repair preserves the network’s fundamental design.

via Snowflake-shaped networks are easiest to mend – tech – 03 October 2014 – New Scientist.