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Ring topology

19 January, 2016 - 13:00

Ring topology, as shown in Figure 1.5, is robust, while it does not have the complexity of the full mesh topology. Hence it is used in core transmission backbone networks.

Figure 1.5 A ring topology connecting six stations (Forouzan 2007, 12)
 

A comparison of the different physical topologies is summarized in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2 A comparison of different physical topologies
 

Mesh

Star

Bus

Ring

Advantages

Robust, data privacy

Less costly than mesh, easier fault identification and isolation

Ease of installation, cost-effective for long line of devices

Better reliability than bus

Disadvantages

Complex and costly for a large number of devices

Hub failure causing total network breakdown

Difficult fault isolation, path break causing isolation into two groups of devices

Path break does not cause isolation into a dual ring

Application examples

Switching backbone connecting the main computers

Local area network in offices

Coaxial cable TV in households or buildings

Long haul transmission backbone network connecting cities