Definition, Advantages and Disadvantages of Ring Topology

Definition, Advantages and Disadvantages of Ring Topology

Ring topology may sound foreign to many people, but its role is very important in connecting computer networks.

Computer has a complex network system that requires a method or topology to connect and deliver data from one device to another.

Well, in this article, we will learn the definition of ring topology along with its advantages and disadvantages. Let's read until the end!

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Understanding Ring Topology

Ring topology is a network arrangement that connects between device in a closed path in the form of a ring.

The role of this network setting is as a path to deliver information from one device to another.

How does the process of sending information through a ring topology on a computer work? This information sending uses a token or segment that is then sent through a ring path.

This token has empty space to store information and addresses of the sender's and recipient's nodes.

When sending data, a node fills a token with various data and delivers it to the next node.

After reaching another point, the data from that node will be copied and reset to zero which is then sent back to the next node. This process will continue to repeat until the node reaches its final destination.

There are two types of ring topology. The first one only allows tokens to move in a single direction.

While the second type is the one that allows tokens to have two-way movement in the same path.

According to Compass, ring topology has several functions. Here are the functions you should know:

• Provides additional support for LAN networks (Local Area Network) is a network that connects devices in a limited area or WAN (Wide Area Network) which is wider.
• Sending data in a fiber optic network (SONET)
• As a backup system for the existing main network

Advantages of Ring Topology

Among other types of topology, this topology has a simpler installation process so it is easy to install. Here are other advantages that ring topology has:

1. Minimize data collisions in the transmission process. This is because the existing data transmission path is only one way.
2. Easier network control between devices
3. Transfer data at high speed
4. Allows users to add additional nodes without compromising network performance.

Cons:

In addition to these advantages, the ring topology type also has several disadvantages. One of them is that if there is a problem with one node, the entire connected network can be damaged.

However, users can overcome this by using this type. bidirectional which will automatically create an alternative route if a route is detected to be experiencing disruption.

Here are some disadvantages that you can consider when using this type of topology:

1. Has a slower data transfer rate than star topology. This is because each data must go through all existing network nodes.
2. Adding or removing connected devices has the potential to damage the network. Making the network difficult to develop.
3. It has installation and maintenance costs that tend to be more expensive than using Ethernet cards, switches or hubs.

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