A wok ring is used stabilize your round-bottomed wok on the stove. Flat-bottomed woks usually do not need wok rings, as the weight of the wok distributes evenly on the flat bottom. There are two kinds of wok rings: the ones with open sides or closed sides with a series of small venting holes around the ring. The open-sided ones are best suited for use on gas stoves where the gas flames can climb up the sides of the wok, also it allows air circulation to raise the flames, further heating up the wok. The close-sided ones are better suited for electric stoves as it concentrates and conducts heat upwards. Place the narrow side down when using the wok ring, as it gives better balance to the wok and brings it closer to the source of heat. But if you are using an electric stove, make sure the wok is not touching the coil on the stove.