 Re: Token ring?
Although the token ring architecture may be old, it is a very reliable one. A token ring, by modern terms, is typically cabled in a physical star layout like much of today's networks, but operates as a logical ring. Though they are slower than some of today's network architectures, Dicknervous is correct on the various speeds token ring supports.
In a token ring, all the computers in the network are guaranteed equal bandwidth by the passing of a token. A token is passed around the network. When a computer receives this packet, it examines it, and if it is being used to transmit data, it sends it down the line until it reaches its final destination. At that point, the receiving computer changes the token to show that it is not in use and sends it to the next computer down the line. If the next computer has data to send, it attaches it to the token and sends it along. If a computer does not have data to send, the token is passed around until it is needed.
ADD-
Most wireless routers use a logical ring, or "token" ring topology within their internal radio because only one wireless device can communicate with the router at a time. The ring topology ensures all of the devices have a fair share at the bandwidth. |