Data Center Fabric Manager Enterprise User Manual v10.3.X (53-1001357-01, November 2009)

DCFM Enterprise User Manual 403

53-1001357-01

Spanning Tree Protocol policy

The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a Layer 2 protocol that ensures a loop-free topology for any

bridged LAN (Layer-2 bridges are typically Ethernet switches). Spanning tree allows a network

design to include spare (redundant) links to provide automatic backup paths if an active link fails,

without the danger of bridge loops or the need to manually enable or disable these backup links.

Refer to “Spanning Tree Protocol configuration” on page 433 for more information.

802.1x policy

802.1x is a standard authentication protocol that defines a client-server-based access control and

authentication protocol. 802.1x restricts unknown or unauthorized clients from connecting to a

LAN through publicly accessible ports.

Refer to “802.1x authentication” on page 438 for information on setting 802.1x parameters.

Link aggregation groups

Link aggregation, based on the IEEE 802.3ad protocol, is a mechanism to bundle several physical

ports together to form a single logical channel or trunk. The collection of ports is called a link

aggregation group (LAG).

The Add LAG button is enabled when a single CEE switch or ports of a single CEE switch are

selected. The Add LAG button is disabled when multiple switches are selected, ports from different

switches are selected, or LAGs are selected.

The Edit button is enabled when a single LAG, port, or switch is selected.

NOTE

When LLDP-DCBX, Access Control List (ACL), or Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is disabled on the

switch, a yellow banner displays on the dialog box, indicating that LLDP-DCBX, ACL, or STP is not only

disabled on the switch, it is also disabled for all ports and LAGs on the switch.

You manage port selection using the Add LAG dialog.

1. Select Configure > CEE Switch > CEE from the menu bar.

The CEE Configuration dialog box displays, showing the status of all CEE-related hardware and

functions.

2. Select the CEE switch or one or more CEE ports to add to a link aggregation group (LAG).