Questions and Answers
What is a significant disadvantage of the ring topology?
How does data travel in a ring topology?
What role does the multistation access unit (MSAU) play in a token ring network?
What happens when computers are added or removed from a ring topology?
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In what configuration are ring networks most commonly wired?
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What is a fault-tolerant design in a ring network?
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What is one advantage of the ring topology regarding troubleshooting?
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What is a primary disadvantage when a single break occurs in the cable of a ring topology?
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What does the ring-in (RI) port connect to in a complete ring topology?
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Study Notes
Ring Topology Overview
- Data flows in a circular manner within a ring topology, forming a logical ring rather than a physical one.
- No hub or switch is necessary for a typical installation of a ring network.
Network Failures
- A single computer or cable failure causes a disruption, making the entire network inaccessible.
- Network disruptions can also occur during the addition or removal of computers, leading to impracticality in dynamic environments.
Fault-Tolerant Design
- Ring networks can implement a fault-tolerant design with primary and secondary rings.
- If one ring fails, the second ring allows data to continue reaching its destination.
- Implementing a secondary ring increases both cost and complexity.
Configuration
- Ring networks are often wired in a star configuration.
- In a token ring network, a multistation access unit (MSAU) functions similarly to a hub or switch in Ethernet networks.
- MSAUs circulate tokens internally, connecting through ring-in (RI) and ring-out (RO) ports to form the complete ring.
Advantages and Disadvantages
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Advantages:
- Easy location of cable faults simplifies troubleshooting.
- Moderate ease of installation.
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Disadvantages:
- Network expansion can lead to disruptions.
- A single cable break can incapacitate the entire network.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamentals of ring topology in computer networking. Explore how data travels in a circular manner and the implications of network disruptions. Understand the significance of physical versus logical configurations in networking.