In most networks, the best Spanning-Tree Protocol topology is determined as part of the network blueprint. The Spanning-Tree Protocol is implemented by configuring Spanning-Tree Protocol priority and cost values. Several things could go wrong. You can expect something, but your switches can give you something different. Situations also occur when the Spanning-Tree Protocol was not… Read more
The default configuration of the spanning-tree protocol (STP) on a Catalyst 2960 Series switch is PVST+. A Catalyst 2960 series switches support PVST+, Rapid PVST+, and MST, but only one version can be active for all VLANs. Rapid PVST+ is the Cisco execution of RSTP supporting RSTP on a per-VLAN basis. We can control the
How to Configure Spanning-Tree Mode – Rapid PVST+ Read More »
When configuring a specific switch as a Root Bridge, the bridge ID priority value must be adjusted to be lower than the bridge priority values of all the other switches on the network. There are two different methods for configuring the bridge priority value on a Cisco Catalyst switch. Method 1 To ensure the switch
How to Configure Spanning-Tree Bridge ID – Briefly Explained Read More »
The spanning tree algorithm exchanges the Bridge Protocol Data Unit (BPDU) to elect the Root Bridge. It is a frame containing 12 different fields with different information. The information in the BPDU is used to determine the root bridge and the paths to the root bridge. The figure below illustrates the Bridge Protocol Data Unit
802.1D Bridge Protocol Data Unit (BPDU) Frame Format Read More »
Every spanning tree switched network or broadcast domain has a switch designated as the root bridge. It serves as the reference point for all spanning-tree-enabled switches. The spanning tree algorithm determines which redundant paths to block. It is selected as an election process. The figure below illustrates the bridge ID (BID) fields. BID is a
In the previous article, I have explained the redundancy. It increases the network availability by protecting the network from a single point of failure, such as a fault in a network cable or fault in a switch. When engineers introduce physical redundancy in design, loops and duplicate frames happen. I have written in the previous
Switch Virtual Interfaces (SVIs) are a cornerstone of modern enterprise networking, enabling efficient inter-VLAN routing on multilayer switches. This guide, designed for CCNA and CCNP students, explores the evolution of Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, SVI configuration, verification, troubleshooting, and real-world applications. Whether you’re preparing for certification exams or deploying networks, this article provides
What is Switch Virtual Interface (SVI) – Everything to Know Read More »