The topology characterized by devices connected in a circular format is known as the Ring topology. In a Ring topology, each device in the network is connected to exactly two other devices, forming a continuous pathway for signals. Data travels in one direction (or sometimes in both directions if it's a dual ring) around the ring, passing through each device until it reaches its destination.
This arrangement allows for consistent data transmission as each device acts as a repeater, helping to maintain the signal strength across the network. However, if one device fails or a connection is interrupted, it can disrupt the entire network unless redundancy measures are in place. This circular connection format distinguishes Ring topology from other types, such as Star, where devices connect to a central hub, or Mesh, where devices interconnect with many pathways to provide high reliability. Tree topology structures devices in a hierarchical manner and does not share the circular connection characteristic.