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Chapter 4: Web-Based Management
GE-DS-82 and 82-PoE Ethernet Managed Switch User Manual 83
Rapid Spanning Tree
The Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) is an evolution of the Spanning Tree Protocol
and provides for faster spanning tree convergence after a topology change. The
system also supports STP and the system will auto-detect the connected device that
is running STP or RSTP protocol.
Theory
The Spanning Tree protocol can be used to detect and disable network loops, and to
provide backup links between switches, bridges or routers. This allows the switch to
interact with other bridging devices in your network to ensure that only one route
exists between any two stations on the network, and provide backup links which
automatically take over when a primary link goes down. The spanning tree
algorithms supported by this switch include these versions:
• STP - Spanning Tree Protocol (IEEE 802.1D)
• RSTP - Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (IEEE 802.1w)
The IEEE 802.1D Spanning Tree Protocol and IEEE 802.1W Rapid Spanning Tree
Protocol allow for the blocking of links between switches that form loops within the
network. When multiple links between switches are detected, a primary link is
established. Duplicated links are blocked from use and become standby links. The
protocol allows for the duplicate links to be used in the event of a failure of the
primary link. Once the Spanning Tree Protocol is configured and enabled, primary
links are established and duplicated links are blocked automatically. The reactivation
of the blocked links (at the time of a primary link failure) is also accomplished
automatically without operator intervention.
This automatic network reconfiguration provides maximum uptime to network users.
However, the concepts of the Spanning Tree Algorithm and protocol are a
complicated and complex subject and must be fully researched and understood. It is
possible to cause serious degradation of the performance of the network if the
Spanning Tree is incorrectly configured. Please read the following before making any
changes from the default values.
The Switch STP performs the following functions:
• Creates a single spanning tree from any combination of switching or bridging
elements.
• Creates multiple spanning trees - from any combination of ports contained within
a single switch, in user specified groups.