Terminology » Networking Basics » Ring Network vs. Bus Network: Key Differences

Ring Network vs. Bus Network: Key Differences

network topology ring network bus network communication network network

There are many ways stations (i.e., nodes) can be interconnected to form a network. However, some configurations are more popular and frequently used than others. These are known as network topologies, with star, ring, and bus being among the most common.

This article explains the basics of ring and bus networks and highlights the key differences between them.

Ring Network

Figure 1: Ring Network

Figure 1 illustrates a typical ring network configuration. Unlike some networks, there’s no central controller station. Instead, each station performs some control functionalities. All stations are connected end-to-end, forming a continuous loop. This means each station connects to two other stations: one on its left and one on its right. Stations in the ring network can both send and receive data.

Each node in the ring network can recognize its assigned address and retransmit the received signal. When a node wants to send a message, it starts with the destination node’s address, followed by the actual message.

Here’s how message transmission works in a ring network:

The originating node sends the message to the next node in the ring.
Communication in the ring is unidirectional. If the receiving node determines that the message isn’t for it (by checking the address), it simply forwards the message to the next node.
When a node identifies its own address as the destination address, it receives/decodes the message, completing the communication.

Example: Token Ring (from IBM)

Bus Network

Figure 2: Bus Network

In a bus network, all stations share a common cable, referred to as the “bus.” Communication is bidirectional, meaning any station can communicate with any other station.

Here’s how message transmission works in a bus network:

The sending station broadcasts the message onto the bus.
All stations receive this message.
The station for which the message is intended decodes the message.
This completes the communication.

Difference between Ring Network and Bus Network

Here’s a comparison of the differences between ring and bus networks:

Feature	Ring Network	Bus Network
Reliability	Failure of one node can disable the entire system.	More reliable, as the “highway” (bus) is passive. Failure of one or more nodes doesn’t interrupt service for other nodes.
Adding Nodes	Requires bringing the network offline to add extra nodes.	Extra nodes can be added without disrupting network operations.
Cable Type	Uses specific types depending on implementation (e.g., twisted pair, fiber optic with unidirectional couplers).	Uses coaxial cable or twisted pair due to the need to transmit in both directions. Bidirectional optical couplers are used to tap in optical fiber bus network.
Signal Issues	Less susceptible to signal reflections.	Susceptible to signal reflections at impedance irregularities. Impedance mismatches at nodes and ends need to be carefully avoided.
Fault Isolation	Fault isolation is easy and straightforward.	Isolation of faults is difficult.
Speed of Access	Provides slower speed of access since nodes are accessed sequentially.	Provides faster speed due to direct access.
Cost	Generally lower cost compared to other topologies.	-
Communication Method	Data passes through each node until it reaches the destination.	Any two stations communicate directly without interference or assistance from other stations/nodes.