This key facts covers Ring Topology within Network Topologies for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Network Topologies in 3.5 Fundamentals of Computer Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 16 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 6 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Ring Topology
What is Ring Topology?
Devices connect in a closed loop (ring). Each device connects to exactly two other devices, forming a continuous circular pathway. Data travels in one direction around the ring.
How It Works:
- Circular connection: Each device has two neighbors
- Token passing: A special "token" circulates; only the device with the token can transmit
- Unidirectional: Data travels in one direction (clockwise or counterclockwise)
- Data regeneration: Each device receives, regenerates, and forwards data
Ring Topology Advantages:
- No collisions: Token system prevents data collisions
- Equal access: All devices get fair access to network
- Predictable performance: Consistent performance under heavy load
- Moderate cabling: Less cable than star, more than bus
Ring Topology Disadvantages:
- Single point of failure: If one device or cable fails, ring breaks and network fails
- Difficult to troubleshoot: Must locate exact break in the ring
- Adding devices disrupts network: Must break ring to add new device
- Slower for small data: Data must pass through multiple devices
- Largely obsolete: Replaced by star in modern networks
Historical Note:
Ring topology was used in IBM Token Ring networks (1980s-1990s) but has been replaced by switched Ethernet (star topology) in modern networks.
Practice questions for Network Topologies
In a star network topology, all devices connect to which central component?
State two advantages of a mesh network topology. [2 marks]