The RSTP (802.1w) and STP (802.1D) Spanning Tree Options
You should enable spanning tree operation in any switch that is part of a redundant physical link (loop topology). (ProCurve recommends that you do so on all switches belonging to a loop topology.) This topic is covered in more detail under “How STP and RSTP Operate” on page
As recommended in the IEEE 802.1Q VLAN standard, the switches covered by this guide use
Spanning tree interprets a switch mesh as a single link. Because the switch automatically gives faster links a higher priority, the default STP or RSTP parameter settings are usually adequate for spanning tree operation. Also, because incorrect STP or RSTP settings can adversely affect network perfor mance, you should not make changes unless you have a strong understanding of how spanning tree operates.
In a mesh environment, the default RSTP timer settings (Hello Time and Forward Delay) are usually adequate for RSTP operation. Because a packet crossing a mesh may traverse several links within the mesh, using smaller-
For more on STP and RSTP, see the IEEE 802.1D and 802.1w standards.