The solar cycle variation of foF2 is studied, with emphasis on the limiting of foF2 increase at both extremes of solar activity. Various types of variation of foF2 versus sunspot number can be adequately represented by a third degree polynomial. A quardratic regression is also fairly good for prediction purpose. The effective sunspot numbers at both extremes of solar activity are defined as a measure of the limiting effect, and their temporal and latitudinal variations are investigated. The limiting effect at high solar activity is explained by the variation of the rate of electron decay, while that at low solar activity is considered to be caused by the upward drift of ionization at equatorial region followed by the meridional transport which is predominant during high solar activity.