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A bridge protocol
that utilizes the spanning-tree algorithm, and enables a learning bridge to
dynamically work around loops in a network topology by creating a spanning
tree. Bridges exchange BPDU messages with other bridges to detect loops, and
then remove the loops by shutting down selected bridge interfaces. Refers to
both the IEEE 802.1 Spanning-Tree Protocol standard and the earlier Digital
Equipment Corporation Spanning-Tree Protocol upon which it is based. The IEEE
version supports bridge domains and allows the bridge to construct a loop-free
topology across an extended LAN. The IEEE version is generally preferred over
the Digital version. Sometimes abbreviated STP. See also BPDU,
learning bridge, MAC address learning, spanning tree, and spanning-tree
algorithm.
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