HP ProCurve 530 NA, Management And Configuration Manual

Page: 296 / 556

8-26
Special Features
Wireless Distribution System (WDS) and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
Web: Configuring STP Parameters
The WDS screen in the Web browser interface (see Figure 8-9) provides global
configuration for the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP). To modify additional
details specific to the STP, see
“CLI: Establishing STP Settings” on page 8-27
.
The STP is an IEEE 802.11 standard protocol (related to network manage-
ment) for MAC bridges that manages path redundancy and prevents undesir-
able loops in the network created by multiple active paths between network
devices.
Loops occur when there are multiple routes between access points. STP
creates a tree that spans all the switches in an extended network, forcing
redundant paths into a standby or blocked state. STP allows only one active
path at a time between any two network devices (this prevents the loops), but
establishes the redundant links as a backup in case the initial link fails.
If STP costs change, or if one network segment in the STP becomes unreach-
able, the spanning tree algorithm reconfigures the spanning tree topology and
reestablishes the link by activating the standby path. Without STP in place, it
is possible that both connections may be simultaneously live, which could
result in an endless loop of traffic on the LAN.
Essentially, STP is used to avoid redundant loops in layer 2.
You can modify this STP parameter using the following option:
■ Spanning Tree Protocol Status: Enables/disables STP capabilities on
the access point. (The default is Enabled.) For WDS parameter details,
see
“Web: Configuring WDS Parameters” on page 8-19
.
Figure 8-9. Configuring STP Parameters
To Modify STP Parameters:
1. Select
Special Features > WDS
.
2. To enable STP, click the
Spanning Tree Protocol Status Enabled
button.
3. Select
[Update]
to save the settings.