Ring Topology
A Ring Topology is a type of network configuration where each device, or node, is connected to two other nodes, forming a circular pathway for data. In this setup, data travels in one direction around the ring, passing through each device until it reaches its destination. This structure helps to minimize data collisions and can simplify the management of network traffic.
One advantage of a ring topology is its predictable data transmission time, as each packet of data has a defined path. However, if one device fails, it can disrupt the entire network, making reliability a concern. Commonly used in local area networks, ring topology is often compared to other configurations like Star Topology and Bus Topology.