Cables to Go TE100-S55 manual Spanning Tree Algorithm

Spanning Tree Algorithm

In a more complex network environment, devices may physically be connected in a loop, causing network failure due to the infinite transfer of packets. In anticipation of such perplexity, the TE100-S55 is designed to support the Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA). Using STA, the TE100-S55 will prevent network loops by logically designating a single path for each connection, as well as establishing a backup path in case of a path failure.

Specifically, Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA) provides the following services:

•Network loop detection and prevention - Only one path is allowed between any two switch/bridge segments. If there are multiple paths, forwarded packets may loop indefinitely and result in serious network failure. When STA detects a loop, it activates the path with the lowest “path cost”, while blocking the other paths.

•Automatic topology re-configuration - If an active path fails, the backup path will be automatically activated, and the STA will auto-configure the network topology.

In a simple network where there is no possibility of network looping, you may disable the STA function. However, if the possibility of network loops exist, just leave the STA enabled along with other switches/bridges in the network. The TE100- S55 will interact with other switches/bridges to dynamically establish forwarding paths within the network.

Subsequently, the TE100-S55 may be referred to as a bridge. Since a switch is analogous to a bridge, the STA rules of a bridge applies equally to the TE100-S55.

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