In a ring topology, if a token is free then the node can capture the token and attach the data and destination address to the token, and then leaves the token for communication. When this token reaches the destination node, the data is removed by the receiver and the token is made free to carry the next data.
In a ring topology, if a token is free then the node can capture the token and attach the data and destination address to the token, and then leaves the token for communication. When this token reaches the destination node, the data is removed by the receiver and the token is made free to carry the next data.
Reduces chances of data collision(unidirectional).
Easy to troubleshoot(the faulty node does not pass the token).
Each node gets the same access time.
Following are the disadvantages of Ring topology:
If a node fails, the whole network will fail.
Slow data transmission speed(each message has to go through the ring path).
Difficult to reconfigure(we have to break the ring).
Star Topology
Star Topology
Star topology is a computer network topology in which all the nodes are connected to a centralized hub. The hub or switch acts as a middleware between the nodes. Any node requesting for service or providing service, first contact the hub for communication.
The central device(hub or switch) has point to point communication link(the dedicated link between the devices which can not be accessed by some other computer) with the devices. The central device then broadcast or unicast the message based on the central device used. The hub broadcasts the message, while the switch unicasts the messages by maintaining a switch table. Broadcasting increases unnecessary data traffic in the network.
In a star topology, hub and switch act as a server, and the other connected devices act as clients. Only one input-output port and one cable are required to connect a node to the central device. This topology is better in terms of security
