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Abstract: Evolution of the Spanning Tree Protocol

The Spanning Tree Protocol that is the basis for the IEEE standard 802.1D was designed to provide "plug-and-play" operation for large Layer 2 networks based on half duplex shared Ethernet, which was the prevalent LAN technology throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. As Ethernet evolved to become a switched full duplex technology, it soon became evident that 802.1D needed to be upgraded in order to keep pace with the new design models and switch features (e.g., VLANs) that emerged to allow optimization of switched networks.

Table of Contents:

Abstract

Introduction

Overview/Review of STP

Shortcomings of IEEE 802.1D STP in Today's Networks

Overview of RSTP

Overview of Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol

RSTP and MSTP in High Availability Networks

Conclusion

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