DEFINITION
- On a ring network, a cable forms a closed loop (ring) with all computers and devices arranged along the ring
- Data transmitted on a ring networks travels from device to device around the entire ring, in one direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) until it reach its destination by using token.
- Token passing is one method for sending data around a ring.
- Each device takes a turn sending and receiving information through the use of a token.
- All computers have equals access to the resources in the network.
- The uses of token passing enables all devicesin a ring topology to share the network resources fairly.
- Cable faults are easily located, making troubleshoooting faster.
- Data packet are flowing in one direction at high speed around the ring.
- The transmission of data is relatively simple as packets travel in one direction.
- A failure in any cable or devices breaks the loop and can take down the entire network.
- A ring network can span a larger distance than a bus network, but it is more difficult to install.
- Data packets must pass through every computer therefore, this makes it slower.