Token Ring is a LAN protocol that uses a token-passing mechanism to control access to the network. It was developed in the 1980s by IBM and was widely used in the 1990s for connecting computers in a LAN. Token Ring is a type of ring topology, in which each node on the network is connected to the next node in a circular loop.
How does Token Ring work?
Token Ring works by using a token-passing mechanism to control access to the network. The token is a special packet that is passed around the network from node to node. When a node wants to transmit data, it waits for the token to arrive at its position on the ring. The node then takes control of the token and adds its data to the packet. The token then continues around the network until it reaches its destination.
When a node receives the token, it checks to see if there is any data waiting to be transmitted. If there is no data, the node simply passes the token to the next node on the network. If there is data waiting to be transmitted, the node takes control of the token and adds its data to the packet.
Uses of Token Ring
Token Ring was widely used in the 1990s for connecting computers in a LAN. It offered several benefits over other LAN protocols, including high throughput and low latency. Token Ring was also known for its reliability and its ability to handle high volumes of network traffic.
Today, Token Ring is less commonly used, as newer LAN protocols such as Ethernet have become more popular. However, Token Ring is still used in some specialized applications, such as in factories and industrial settings where high reliability and low latency are critical.
