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ring topology
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Diagram comparing three local area network configurations: a bus network with devices connected in a line to a central bus, a ring network with devices linked in a closed loop, and a star network with devices connected to a central hub. Each network includes user stations, a file server, and a printer.
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ring topology

communications
Also known as: ring network
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Diagram comparing three local area network configurations: a bus network with devices connected in a line to a central bus, a ring network with devices linked in a closed loop, and a star network with devices connected to a central hub. Each network includes user stations, a file server, and a printer.
Local area networks (LANs) Simple bus networks, such as Ethernet, were common for home and small office configurations. The most common ring network was IBM's Token Ring, which employed a “token” that is passed around the network to control which location has sending privileges. Star networks are common in larger commercial networks since a malfunction at any node generally does not disrupt the entire network.

A ring topology is a type of local area network (LAN) configuration where each computer is connected to two neighboring computers, forming a closed circuit. This creates a circular pathway for data transmission. While other configurations like bus and star exist, the ring topology was a notable design, especially in early Ethernet systems. Communication in such networks relies on specific rules, or protocols, to manage data flow and prevent collisions, ensuring that devices can communicate effectively within the network.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. ring
  2. computer - Local area networks

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