What is STP in Networking?
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a network protocol designed to build a loop-free topology in the network. It is a layer 2 protocol that prevents broadcasts storms on networks with redundant paths.
The standardised STP protocols are specified as IEEE 802.1D. STP runs on 802.1D-compliant bridges and switches to prevent loops in a network. The configuration of STP requires a well-planned network topology by the administrator. STP increases the reliability of the network exponentially by introducing redundancy that is as important as backups in case an active link within the network fails.
