> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://davidjosearaujo.gitbook.io/notes-miect/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://davidjosearaujo.gitbook.io/notes-miect/seguranca-em-redes-de-comunicacoes/corporate-networks-topics/spanning-tree-protocol.md).

# Spanning Tree Protocol

STP enables the network to deterministically block interfaces and provide a loop-free topology in a network with redundant links.

There are several STP Standards and Features:

* STP is the original IEEE 802.1D version (802.1D-1998) that provides a loop-free topology in a network with redundant links.
* RSTP, or IEEE 802.1W, is an evolution of STP that provides faster convergence of STP.
* Multiple Spanning Tree (MST) is an IEEE standard. MST maps multiple VLANs into the same spanning-tree instance.
* Per VLAN Spanning Tree Plus (PVST+) is a Cisco enhancement of STP that provides a separate 802.1D spanning-tree instance for each VLAN configured in the network.
* RPVST+ is a Cisco enhancement of RSTP that uses PVST+. It provides a separate instance of 802.1W per VLAN.

Recommended Practices for STP.

* Define by configuration (using STP priority) the root bridge/switch.
* Use the same cost in all interfaces (if possible).