Spanning Tree Configuration Summary
Spanning Tree Features
6-2 Matrix E1 Series (1G58x-09 and 1H582-xx) Configuration Guide
only if the forwarding link goes down. MSTP assigns each VLAN present on the network to a
particular Spanning Tree instance, allowing each switch port to be in a distinct state for each such
instance: blocking for one Spanning Tree while forwarding for another. Thus, traffic associated
with one set of VLANs can traverse a particular inter-switch link, while traffic associated with
another set of VLANs can be blocked on that link. If VLANs are assigned to Spanning Trees wisely,
no inter-switch link will be completely idle, maximizing network utilization.
For details on creating Spanning Tree instances, refer to Section 6.2.1.7.
For details on mapping Spanning Tree instances to VLANs, refer to Section 6.2.1.10.
6.1.2 Spanning Tree Features
The Matrix E1 device meets the requirements of the Spanning Tree Protocols by performing the
following functions:
•Creating a single Spanning Tree from any arrangement of switching or bridging elements.
•Compensating automatically for the failure, removal, or addition of any device in an active data
path.
•Achieving port changes in short time intervals, which establishes a stable active topology
quickly with minimal network disturbance.
•Using a minimum amount of communications bandwidth to accomplish the operation of the
Spanning Tree Protocol.
•Reconfiguring the active topology in a manner that is transparent to stations transmitting and
receiving data packets.
•Managing the topology in a consistent and reproducible manner through the use of Spanning
Tree Protocol parameters.
NOTE: MSTP and RSTP are fully compatible and interoperable with each other and
with legacy STP 802.1D.