In ring network, each node is connected to two adjacent nodes in the form a closed ring or loop. In ring topology, the last node connects to the first node to complete the ring. In ring topology, each node has a dedicated point-to-point connection only with the two devices on either side of it.
In this network, data is communicated in one direction from node to node around the entire ring. When a computer in ring network sends message to another computer on the network, the message travels to each node or computer until it reaches its destination. The ring network configuration is shown in figure below.
Advantages
The main advantages of ring topology are:
- It is less expensive than star topology.
- Nodes can be easily added or removed.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantages of ring topology are:
- It is more difficult to install and maintain.
- If a node fails, it affects the entire network.
Source : http://www.free-computer-tips.info
