Chapter 2. LAN Redundancy

Computer networks are inextricably linked to productivity in today’s small and medium-sized businesses. Consequently, IT administrators have to implement redundancy in their hierarchical networks. When a switch connection is lost, another link needs to quickly take its place without introducing any traffic loops. This chapter investigates how Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) logically blocks physical loops in the network and how STP has evolved into a robust protocol that rapidly calculates which ports should be blocked in a VLAN-based network. In addition, the chapter briefly explores how Layer 3 redundancy is implemented through First Hop Redundancy Protocols (FHRPs).

Spanning-Tree Concepts

Redundancy increases the availability ...

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