What type of network topology connects devices in a circular format?

A ring topology connects devices in a circular format where each device is connected to two other devices, forming a closed loop. This design allows data to travel in one direction around the ring or, in some systems, in both directions. Each device acts as a repeater, receiving and passing on the data to the next device in the ring until it reaches its destination.

The arrangement ensures that the flow of data is orderly, reducing the chances of data collisions that might occur in other topologies. In the event of a device failure, the network can become disrupted, but some configurations allow for a dual ring to maintain connectivity.

In contrast, star topology connects all devices to a central hub; mesh topology has devices interlinked with multiple pathways; and bus topology has all devices connected to a single central cable, meaning they do not have a circular configuration.