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24-port NWay Ethernet Switch User’s Guide
32 Switch Management Concepts
Spanning Tree Algorithm
The Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA) in the Switch allows
you to create alternative paths (with multiple switches or
other types of bridges) in your network. These backup
paths are idle until the Switch determines that a problem
has developed in the primary paths. When a primary path
is lost, the switch providing the alternative path will
automatically go into service with no operator
intervention. This automatic network reconfiguration
provides maximum uptime to network users. The concept
of the Spanning Tree Algorithm is a complicated and
complex subject and must be fully researched and
understood. Please read the following before making any
changes.
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Network loop detection and prevention With STA,
there will be only one path between any two LANs. If
there is more than one path, forwarded packets will
loop indefinitely. STA detects any looped path and
selects the path with the lowest path cost as the
active path, while blocking the other path and using
it as the backup path.
♦
Automatic topology re-configuration When the path
for which there is a backup path fails, the backup
path will be automatically activated, and STA will
automatically re-configure the network topology.
STA Operation Levels
STA operates on two levels: the bridge level and the port
level. On the bridge level, STA calculates the Bridge
Identifier for each Switch, then sets the Root Bridge and