Token-Ring networks are wired in a star configuration, with a Multistation Access Unit (MAU) providing the central connection for the devices on the LAN. A MAU on a Token-Ring network is the equivalent of a hub on an Ethernet network, but the MAU is a much more sophisticated device. Token-Ring uses a ring topology, where data travels in only one direction. However, the actual ring on which the token is circulated is a logical ring inside of the MAU.

   Access to the network media is handled using a token. The token is passed around the ring until a computer wishing to send information out onto the network takes possession of the token.

   A computer that passes the token to the next computer on the logical ring would be called the nearest active upstream neighbour (NAUN). The computer receiving the token is the nearest active downstream neighbour (NADN). Once a computer takes possession of the token and transmits data, it then creates a new token and passes it to its NADN. The token makes its way around the ring until a node on the network takes possession of it to transmit.