LAN Switching first-step

Spanning Tree Protocol Configuration

Before you can understand how a network topology is built and managed using the STP, you need to understand the five states of the spanning tree. If geography isn't your strong suit, that's okay; there are no maps involved when discussing these states.

Spanning-Tree Port States

Because of network delay caused by large LAN segments, topology changes can take place at different times and at different places in the switched network. When a switch port transitions directly from nonparticipation to an active, or forwarding, state, temporary data loops can be created. Ports must wait for new topology information to spread throughout the LAN before frames can be forwarded. Switches must also allow the frame lifetime ...