User Manual

Configure Switching Information
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M4200 and M4300 Series ProSAFE Managed Switches Web Management User Manual
Spanning Tree Protocol
The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) provides a tree topology for any arrangement of bridges.
STP also provides one path between end stations on a network, eliminating loops. Spanning
tree versions supported include Common STP, Multiple STP, and Rapid STP.
Classic STP provides a single path between end stations, avoiding and eliminating loops. For
information on configuring Common STP, see Configure CST Port Settings on page 208.
Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP) supports multiple instances of Spanning Tree to
efficiently channel VLAN traffic over different interfaces. Each instance of the Spanning Tree
behaves in the manner specified in IEEE 802.1w, Rapid Spanning Tree (RSTP), with slight
modifications in the working but not the end effect (chief among the effects, is the rapid
transitioning of the port to Forwarding). The difference between the RSTP and the traditional
STP (IEEE 802.1D) is the ability to configure and recognize full-duplex connectivity and ports
which are connected to end stations, resulting in rapid transitioning of the port to Forwarding
state and the suppression of Topology Change Notification. These features are represented
by the parameters pointtopoint and edgeport. MSTP is compatible to both RSTP and STP. It
behaves appropriately to STP and RSTP bridges. A MSTP bridge can be configured to
behave entirely as a RSTP bridge or a STP bridge.
Note: For two bridges to be in the same region, the force version must be
802.1s and their configuration name, digest key, and revision level
must match. For additional information about regions and their effect
on network topology, refer to the IEEE 802.1Q standard.
Configure Basic STP Settings
 To configure STP basic settings:
1. Launch a web browser.
2. Enter http://<ipaddress> in the web browser address field.
The login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The default admin user name is admin and the default admin password is blank, that is,
do not enter a password.
4. Click the Login button.
The System Information page displays.
5. Select Switching > STP > Basic > STP Configuration.