Which of the following is a disadvantage of ring topology?

Which of the following is a disadvantage of ring topology?

• A. High complexity in wiring
• B. Slow network performance
• C. Risk of a single point of failure
• D. High costs associated with setup

Answer: (B)

The selected answer identifies slow network performance as a disadvantage of ring topology. However, the more significant disadvantage inherent to ring topology is the risk of a single point of failure. In a ring network, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a closed loop. This means that if any single device or connection fails, it can disrupt the entire network's functionality, as data cannot be transmitted around the ring. While ring topologies can experience slower performance compared to other topologies, particularly as the number of devices increases, the fundamental concern is the potential for a complete network failure due to a single point of failure. This characteristic makes ring topology less reliable, especially in critical applications where uptime is essential. In contrast, the complexity in wiring, high costs associated with setup, or slow network performance may vary based on specific implementations and other factors. However, the vulnerability to failure from a single break in the loop is a unique and critical consideration for ring networks that directly impacts their reliability in practice.

The selected answer identifies slow network performance as a disadvantage of ring topology. However, the more significant disadvantage inherent to ring topology is the risk of a single point of failure. In a ring network, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a closed loop. This means that if any single device or connection fails, it can disrupt the entire network's functionality, as data cannot be transmitted around the ring.

While ring topologies can experience slower performance compared to other topologies, particularly as the number of devices increases, the fundamental concern is the potential for a complete network failure due to a single point of failure. This characteristic makes ring topology less reliable, especially in critical applications where uptime is essential.

In contrast, the complexity in wiring, high costs associated with setup, or slow network performance may vary based on specific implementations and other factors. However, the vulnerability to failure from a single break in the loop is a unique and critical consideration for ring networks that directly impacts their reliability in practice.