Token

The data packet used to carry information on LANs using the ring topology.

(1) In programming languages, a single element of a programming language. For example, a token could be a keyword, an operator, or a punctuation mark. (2) In networking, a token is a special series of bits that travels around a token-ring network. As the token circulates, computers attached to the network can capture it. The token acts like a ticket, enabling its owner to send a message across the network. There is only one token for each network, so there is no possibility that two computers will attempt to transmit messages at the same time. (3) In security systems, a small device the size of a credit card that displays a constantly changing ID code. A user first enters a password and then the card displays an ID that can be used to log into a network. Typically, the IDs change every 5 minutes or so.A similar mechanism for generating IDs is a smart card.

Besides those small copper coins that allow you to play video games, there are three different type of tokens: 1. In networking, a token refers to a special series of bits that circulate on a token-ring network. The token allows the system which has it to send information over the network. Since there is only one token for each network, only one computer at a time can send data. 2. In programming, a token is a single element of a programming language. Some examples of programming tokens are reserved words, punctuation marks, and operators. 3. In security systems, a token is small card that displays an ID code which can be used to log into a network. The card user enters a password which causes the card to display the current ID needed to log into the network. The token adds an extra security level to network access because the IDs change every 5 minutes or so.