Ring Topology Diagram ,advantages And Disadvantages

 Network topology refers to the layout or design in which various elements of a network are interconnected. Network topology can be either Physical Topology or Logical Topology. Topology can be considered as the overall structure or shape of a network.

This article elaborates ring topology with diagram and its advantages and disadvantages.

 Ring Topology: All nodes are connected in ring structure. Each node contains repeater. A signal passes node to node, until it reaches its destination. If a node receives a signal intended for another node its repeater regenerates the signal and passes it.

In this network arrangement, a signal is transferred sequentially using a TOKEN from one node to the next. If a node wants to transmit, it "grabs" the token, attaches data and a destination address to it, and then sends it around the ring. The token travels along the ring until it reaches its destination. Once token reaches destination, receiving computer  acknowledges receipt with a return message to the sender. The sender then releases the token for the token for use by another computer.

Advantages:  

Relatively easy to install and reconfigure.

Easy to add new node as only two connections need to be changed.                                

Disadvantages:

 A fault in the ring can disable the entire network. This weakness can be resolved by   using a dual ring.

Token may get lost , or many token are generated.

Network topology related articles

Tree, Bus and Ring topologies with advantages and disadvantages

star and mesh topology with advantages and disadvantages

Tree Topology with Diagram

Bus Topology with Diagram

Star Topology with diagram

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