Define network topology. Explain ring topology along with its merits and demerits.

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Suresh Chand · Accepted Answer

A network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections in a network. Nodes usually include devices such as switches, routers and software with switch and router features. Network topologies are often represented as a graph. Ring Topology: Ring topology is like a bus topology, but with connected ends. The node that receives the message from the previous computer will retransmit to the next node. The data flows in one direction, i.e., it is unidirectional. The data flows in a single loop continuously known as an endless loop. It has no terminated ends, i.e., each node is connected to other node and having no termination point. The data in a ring topology flow in a clockwise direction. The most common access method of the ring topology is token passing. Token passing: It is a network access method in which token is passed from one node to another node. Token: It is a frame that circulates around the network. Advantages: Network Management: Faulty devices can be removed from the network without bringing the network down. Product availability: Many hardware and software tools for network operation and monitoring are available. Cost: Twisted pair cabling is inexpensive and easily available. Therefore, the installation cost is very low. Reliable: It is a more reliable network because the communication system is not dependent on the single host computer. Disadvantages: Difficult troubleshooting: It requires specialized test equipment to determine the cable faults. If any fault occurs in the cable, then it would disrupt the communication for all the nodes. Failure: The breakdown in one station leads to the failure of the overall network. Reconfiguration difficult: Adding new devices to the network would slow down the network. Delay: Communication delay is directly proportional to the number of nodes. Adding new devices increases the communication delay.

Define network topology. Explain ring topology along with its merits and demerits.

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Define network topology. Explain ring topology along with its merits and demerits.

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