Configuring the Spanning Tree Protocol 62922Configuring the Spanning TreeProtocolThis chapter describes how to configure the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)settings on the switch.The topics covered in this chapter include:• STP Overview• Default STP Values• Configuring Spanning Tree (Web)• Configuring Spanning Tree (CLI)• STP Configuration ExamplesSTP OverviewSTP is a layer 2 protocol that provides a tree topology for switches on abridged LAN. STP allows a network to have redundant paths without the riskof network loops. STP uses the spanning-tree algorithm to provide a singlepath between end stations on a network.PowerConnect 7000 Series switches support Classic STP, Multiple STP, andRapid STP.What Are Classic STP, Multiple STP, and Rapid STP?Classic STP provides a single path between end stations, avoiding andeliminating loops.Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP) supports multiple instances ofSpanning Tree to efficiently channel VLAN traffic over different interfaces.Each instance of the Spanning Tree behaves in the manner specified in IEEE802.1w, Rapid Spanning Tree (RSTP), with slight modifications in theworking but not the end effect (chief among the effects, is the rapidtransitioning of the port to Forwarding). The difference between the RSTPand the traditional STP (IEEE 802.1d) is the ability to configure and
