Token Ring is a type of computer network in which all the computers are arranged in a ring or star topology. Each computer is constantly passing a special frame or “token” around this ring. When a computer has data to send, it waits for the token, attaches its message and the address of the receiving computer, and then lets the token continue to circulate. This method avoids data collisions and ensures a controlled access to the network.
Token Ring Examples
#1. Office Network
In an office setting, various computers and devices are often networked together to facilitate efficient communication and data sharing. One way this can be achieved is through a Token Ring network. This is a network in which all the computers and devices are connected in a ring, creating a continuous circuit. A special frame, or “token”, circulates around this ring at all times.
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When a computer in the network needs to send data or files to another computer, it simply waits for the token to reach it. Once the token arrives, the computer attaches its message to the token, indicating the address of the receiving computer. This system allows the data to reach its intended destination accurately and efficiently.
The token then continues to circulate around the network, ready to transport the next piece of data or file. This process prevents data from colliding and enables balanced, controlled access to the network. It’s an effective and orderly way to manage data traffic in an office network environment.
#2. School Lab
In a school environment, specifically in a computer lab, students are often working on projects or tasks that require sharing and exchanging data or files. Using a Token Ring network can make this data exchange process flow smoothly and effectively.
Just like in an office network, all the computers in the lab are connected in a ring or star topology. A token continuously circulates around this network, waiting for a computer to attach a data message. When a student has some work to share with fellow students, they wait for the token to reach their computer.
Once the token arrives, they attach their work to the token, indicating the destination computer. This allows the work to be sent precisely to the right recipient. The token then continues on its path for the next data exchange. In this way, the Token Ring network facilitates effective collaboration and work sharing among the students in the lab.
#3. Business Conference
A business conference room is often a host to a myriad of electronic devices like computers, projectors, screens, and more. To facilitate seamless communication between all these devices, a Token Ring network is extremely beneficial.
All these devices are networked together, creating a ring in which a token is continuously circling. This special token is the backbone for network communication and guarantees efficient data transfer between devices.
Suppose, if a presentation needs to be transferred from a computer/tablet to the projector, the device waits for the circulating token. As the token arrives, the presentation file is attached to the token with the projector’s address. The token then ensures this file reaches the projector without colliding with other data. Once delivered, the token is free to circulate again. This way, a Token Ring network ensures smooth, efficient, and collision-free data communication in a business conference setting.
Conclusion
Token Ring is a powerful networking technology that ensures efficient and collision-free data transfer in numerous settings. From office environments and school labs to business conferences, its approach of using a circulating token for data transmission offers a robust solution for seamless and productive communication.
Key Takeaways
- Token Ring uses a circulating token for controlled data transfer in a network.
- It allows computers to send data when they receive the token, avoiding data collisions.
- Token Ring networks can be used in various environments like offices, school labs, and business conferences for efficient communication.
- Complex network traffic is managed through the token-passing mechanism, promoting network stability.
- The ring or star topology helps in maintaining a continuous, unbroken path for the token.
Related Questions
1. Is Token Ring still in use today?
Token Ring technology, though developed in the 1980s, is not commonly used today due to advancements in networking technologies like Ethernet. However, some legacy systems might still operate using Token Ring.
2. What is Token Ring topology?
Token Ring topology is a type of network configuration where devices are connected in a ring or star formation. This entails a token being passed in a circular manner across connected devices, facilitating an orderly and collision-free communication method.
3. What are the advantages of a Token Ring network?
Token Ring networks ensure that there are no data collisions, provide an equitable access to the network for all devices, and provide a way to manage complex network traffic effectively.
4. Why might companies choose Ethernet over Token Ring?
Ethernet is often chosen over Token Ring because it provides faster data transfer rates, is easier to manage, less expensive, and more adaptable to modern network demands.
5. Could a token end up circulating indefinitely in a Token Ring network?
In a Token Ring network, the token is designed to keep circulating. However, it shouldn’t circulate indefinitely. If a device has data to send, it will catch the token, attach its data, and then free the token to continue its circulation.
"Amateurs hack systems, professionals hack people."
-- Bruce Schneier, a renown computer security professional
