In which physical LAN topology are nodes connected by a backbone cable that loops around?

In a ring topology, all nodes are connected in a circular formation, where each device connects to two others, forming a closed loop. This design allows data to travel in one direction around the ring. When a node sends data, it travels through the connected nodes until it reaches its destination. This looped nature provides a straightforward method for data to circulate but does mean that if any single node or connection fails, it can disrupt the entire network because the communication path is broken.

This design contrasts with other topologies. In a bus topology, all nodes share a single backbone cable, with data being transmitted along that line to all devices. The star topology connects all nodes directly to a central hub, making it easy to add or remove nodes without affecting the network's integrity. In a tree topology, nodes are arranged in a hierarchical structure that branches out from a central node, resembling a tree with multiple branches and sub-branches.

The ring topology, with its characteristic looped connection, effectively demonstrates a unique method of organizing network nodes, emphasizing both its benefits and vulnerabilities.