Networking

Difference Between Ring Network and Bus Network

Ring Network vs Bus Network

Summary: Difference Between Ring Network and Bus Network is that on a ring network, a cable forms a closed loop (ring) with all computers and devices arranged along the ring. Data transmitted on a ring network travels from device to device around the entire ring, in one direction. While a bus network consists of a single central cable, to which all computers and other devices connect. The bus is the physical cable that connects the computers and other devices. The bus in a bus network transmits data, instructions, and information in both directions.

Difference Between Star Ring and Bus Network

Ring Network

On a ring network, a cable forms a closed loop (ring) with all computers and devices arranged along the ring. Data transmitted on a ring network travels from device to device around the entire ring, in one direction. When a computer or device sends data, the data travels to each computer on the ring until it reaches its destination. If a computer or device on a ring network fails, the entire network potentially could stop functioning. A ring network can span a larger distance than a bus network, but it is more difficult to install. The ring topology primarily is used for LANs, but also is used in WANs.

Bus Network

A bus network consists of a single central cable, to which all computers and other devices connect. The bus is the physical cable that connects the computers and other devices. The bus in a bus network transmits data, instructions, and information in both directions. When a sending device transmits data, the address of the receiving device is included with the transmission so that the data is routed to the appropriate receiving device.

Bus networks are popular on LANs because they are inexpensive and easy to install. One advantage of the bus network is that comput ers and other devices can be attached and detached at any point on the bus without disturbing the rest of the network. Another advan tage is that failure of one device usually does not affect the rest of the bus network. The greatest risk to a bus network is that the bus itself might become inoperable. If that happens, the network remains inoperative until the bus is back in working order.

Also Read:

Difference Between Star Network and Bus Network

Difference Between Star Network and Ring Network

Difference Between Token Ring and Ethernet

Difference Between Ethernet and LAN

Difference Between Pointing Stick and Trackball

Leave a Comment