Ring Topology

In ring topology, computers are arranged in a circle. Data travels around the ring in one direction, with each device on the ring acting as a repeater. Ring network typically use a token passing protocol.

In ring topology, the nodes are connected in a circle using cable segments. In this layout, each node is physically connected to only two others nodes. Each nodes passes information along to the next, until it arrives at its intended destination. Since each computers re-transmits what it receives, a ring is an active network and is not subject to the single loss problems which a bus topology experiences. There is no termination because there is no end to the ring.
 Performance on this type of topology is faster because each portion of the cabling system is handling only the data flow between two machines. This type of topology can be found in peer-to-peer networks, in which machine manages both information processing and the distribution of data files.

Advantages of Ring Topology

1.      Because every computer is given equal access to the token, no one computer can monopolize the network.

2.      The fair sharing of the network allows the network to degrade gracefully. It continuous to function in a slower, manner rather than fail.

Disadvantages of Ring Topology

1.      Failure of one computer on the ring affect the whole network.

2.      It is difficult to troubleshoot a ring network.

3.      Adding or removing computers disrupts the network.