Ring Topology

Definitions of Ring topology on the Web:

• A ring network is a network topology in which each node connects to exactly two other nodes, forming a single continuous pathway for signals through each node - a ring. Data travels from node to node, with each node along the way handling every packet.
  en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring_topology
• A layout scheme in which the network takes the form of a closed loop with the devices attached into the ring. Every workstation is linked to two others, one on each side. All data is passed from node to node in one direction only, each PC acting as a repeater for the next one in the loop. ...
  www.nettedautomation.com/glossary_menue/glossary_r.html
• One of the three principal topologies used in LANs. All devices are connected to one another in the shape of a closed loop, so that each device is connected directly to two other devices, one on either side of it. ...
  www.visionael.com/services/glossary/index.html
• A basic networking configuration in which all nodes are connected in a circle with no terminated ends on the cable.
  www.watchguard.net/glossary/r.asp
• Ring topology do not have a central connection point. Instead, a cable connects one node to another, until a "ring" is formed. When a node sends a message, the message is processed by each computer in the ring. ...
  www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Network-topologies

Ring Topology
In ring topology each station is attached nearby stations on a point to point basis so that the entire system is in the form of a ring. In this topology data is transmitted in one direction only. Thus the data packets circulate along the ring in either clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. The advantage of this topology is that any signal transmitted on the network passes through all the LAN stations. The disadvantage of ring network is that the breakdown of any one station on the ring can disable the entire system.

Ring Topology

Advantage of Ring Topology
The data being transmitted between two nodes passes through all the intermediate nodes. A central server is not required for the management of this topology.

Disadvantages of Ring Topology
The failure of a single node of the network can cause the entire network to fail.
The movement or changes made to network nodes affects the performance of the entire network.