Ring Topology
Ring topology is a network configuration where each node (device) is connected to exactly two other nodes, forming a single continuous pathway for signals in a circular structure. Data travels in one direction (unidirectional) or both directions (bidirectional) around the ring, with each node acting as a repeater to boost the signal. It is commonly used in local area networks (LANs) and telecommunications systems for its orderly data flow and reduced collision risks.
Developers should learn ring topology when designing or troubleshooting network architectures, especially in environments requiring deterministic data transmission like token ring networks or fiber distributed data interface (FDDI) systems. It is useful for scenarios where network performance needs to be predictable and collisions minimized, such as in industrial control systems or legacy enterprise networks, though it has become less common with the rise of star topologies.