RING topology

A network topology that is set up in a circular fashion in which data travels around the ring in one direction and each device on the right acts as a repeater to keep the signal strong as it travels. Each device incorporates a receiver for the incoming signal and a transmitter to send the data on to the next device in the ring. The network is dependent on the ability of the signal to travel around the ring. When a device sends data, it must travel through each device on the ring until it reaches its destination. Every node is a critical link.

Advantages 

1. This type of network topology is very organized. Each node gets to send the data when it receives an   empty token. This helps to reduces chances of collision. Also in ring topology all the traffic flows in only one  direction at very high speed.
2. Even when the load on the network increases, its performance is better than that of Bus topology.
3. There is no need for network server to control the connectivity between workstations.
4. Additional components do not affect the performance of network.
5. Each computer has equal access to resources.

Disadvantages 

1. Each packet of data must pass through all the computers between source and destination. This makes it slower than Star topology.
2. If one workstation or port goes down, the entire network gets affected.
3. Network is highly dependent on the wire which connects different components. 
4. MAU’s and network cards are expensive as compared to Ethernet cards and hubs.