Chapter 7: Setting the Port Spanning Tree Protocol

Overview

STP and RSTP prevent loops from forming by ensuring that only one path exists between the end nodes in your network. Where multiple paths exist, these protocols place the extra paths in a standby or blocking mode. In addition, STP and RSTP can activate redundant paths if primary paths go down. These protocols guard against multiple links between segments and the risk of broadcast storms and maintain network connectivity by activating backup redundant paths.

One of the primary differences between the two protocols is in the time each takes to complete the process referred to as convergence. When a change is made to the network topology, such as the addition of a new bridge, a spanning tree protocol determines whether there are redundant paths that must be blocked to prevent data loops, or activated to maintain communications between the various network segments. This is the process of convergence.

With STP, convergence can take up to a minute to complete in a large network. This can result in the loss of communication between various parts of the network during the convergence process, and the subsequent lost of data packets.

RSTP is much faster than STP. It can complete a convergence in seconds, and so greatly diminish the possible impact the process can have on your network. Only one spanning tree can be active on the switch at a time. The default setting is RSTP.

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Allied Telesis AT-9000/52, AT-9000/28SP manual Overview
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AT-9000/52, AT-9000/28SP, AT-9000/28 specifications

The Allied Telesis AT-9000/28 is a versatile and robust network switch designed for organizations seeking to enhance their networking capability. This Layer 2 managed switch delivers a high degree of performance and reliability, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require a seamless network experience.

One of the main features of the AT-9000/28 is its 28 ports, which include 24 Fast Ethernet ports and 4 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports. This allows for flexible network configuration and scalability, accommodating both wired and wireless devices efficiently. The switch also supports auto-negotiation and auto-MDI/MDI-X, which simplifies installation and connectivity by automatically detecting and configuring the appropriate settings.

The AT-9000/28 employs advanced switching technologies, such as IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging, which enables the segregation of traffic for improved security and performance. This feature is crucial for businesses that require data isolation between different departments or user groups. In addition, the switch supports quality of service (QoS) protocols, allowing for traffic prioritization. This is particularly beneficial for organizations that handle multimedia applications or VoIP services that demand reliable bandwidth.

Another significant characteristic of the AT-9000/28 is its support for port mirroring. This capability is essential for network monitoring and troubleshooting, as it allows administrators to track and analyze network traffic efficiently. Furthermore, the switch supports multiple user authentication methods, including RADIUS and TACACS+, thus enhancing network security.

The AT-9000/28 is built with energy efficiency in mind, featuring Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) technology. This reduces power consumption during periods of low traffic without compromising performance, which aids in lowering overall operational costs.

In terms of management, the AT-9000/28 offers versatile management options, including a web-based GUI, Command Line Interface (CLI), and SNMP support. This flexibility enables network administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the switch easily.

Overall, the Allied Telesis AT-9000/28 is a reliable switch well-suited for a variety of network environments. Its combination of performance, security features, and energy efficiency makes it an excellent choice for organizations looking to optimize their network infrastructure. With robust capabilities and advanced technologies, the AT-9000/28 stands out as a valuable addition to any networking setup.
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