Ringvõrgud

Ring võrgud, also known as ring networks, are a type of computer network topology where devices are connected in a circular fashion. Each device in the network is connected to exactly two other devices, forming a single continuous pathway for signals. Data travels from one device to the next in one direction, until it reaches its intended destination. This unidirectional flow is a key characteristic of ring topologies.

The primary advantage of a ring network is its simplicity and ease of installation. It requires less cabling compared to some other topologies like star networks. However, a significant drawback is its vulnerability. If a single cable breaks or a single device fails, the entire network can be disrupted, as the continuous loop is broken. Troubleshooting can also be more challenging as identifying the exact point of failure might be difficult.

Data transmission in a ring network often utilizes a token-passing mechanism. A special signal, known as a token, circulates around the ring. A device wishing to transmit data must wait for the token. Once it has the token, it attaches its data and the destination address, and sends it around the ring. The data packet travels from node to node until it reaches its destination, where it is copied. The packet then continues its journey back to the sender, who removes it from the network. This method ensures that only one device can transmit at a time, preventing data collisions. While historically significant, ring networks are less common in modern local area networks, often being superseded by Ethernet-based star topologies due to their greater robustness and flexibility.