What Is STP Redirection?
Computer networks allow data to flow between two or more computers via Ethernet cables or a wireless network connection. Larger networks that utilize hubs and Ethernet switches sometimes encounter problems with the flow of data, resulting in data looping within the network instead of being delivered to the computer or network device it was intended for. Spanning tree protocol, or STP, redirection prevents these data loops from occurring, ensuring that the data arrives at its intended location.
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Data Loops
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Data loops occur when data moving through a network has more than one route that can be taken to its destination. Instead of taking a direct route, the data attempts to travel through each path that is available to it; this increases the time that it takes to reach its destination and creates an artificially high amount of network traffic known as "broadcast radiation." Multiple data loops occurring at once can actually prevent other network traffic from getting through due to the excessive use of network resources.
Spanning Tree Protocol
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The spanning tree protocol is an optional feature of a number of network devices, which is intended to prevent data loops and broadcast radiation. STP redirects data so that it only passes through a single path instead of attempting to take multiple paths; this ensures that data loops cannot occur because the data can only travel along the one path available to it. Any attempts to use other data paths will be blocked by STP.
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How STP Works
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STP redirects data and forces it to take a specific path through the network by disabling all but one of the ports on switches and other devices temporarily so that the data can only flow in one direction. The protocol identifies the shortest path for data packets moving from one computer or network resource to another, directing the data along this path to increase data transfer speeds while eliminating the risk of broadcast radiation. Closed ports are reopened once the data packets move through the switch or device, allowing data from other sources to pass through the device as well.
Enabling STP
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STP is a firmware option for routers and other network devices. If STP is not enabled on your network and your network devices support the protocol, you can log in to the router or other device using an administrator username and password. The firmware interface should contain an option to enable or disable STP within its settings; adjusting this to "Enable" and saving your settings will enable the protocol, though the device will need to reboot for the changes to take effect. If the device does not have a graphic interface for its firmware settings, then STP can be enabled from the console or command prompt using commands provided by the device manufacturer.
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References
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