Multi-Tech Systems MTASR1-100 - Manual (Page 57)

Chapter 5 - RouteFinder Software
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5.2.8 Spanning Tree Bridging Setup
This dialog box lets you configure the parameters for transparent bridging or bridging using the Spanning Tree
Algorithm as specified in IEEE 802.1d standard. Transparent bridging is between two remote Ethernet LANs.
Spanning Tree Algorithm is a protocol specified by the IEEE 802.1d standard for use by bridges to perform
bridging. Bridges implementing this protocol interact with each other so as to prevent bridging-loops in an
internetwork with redundant links to the same networks. This algorithm also allows for automatic use of
alternative routes (provided there are redundant paths to the destination) in case the original route is
unavailable for some reason.
Bridging Enable = [enabled I disabled]
The RouteFinder can do simple transparent bridging if this item is checked. This option allows you have a
single WAN port connecting your network to an internetwork (like a Small Office Home Office (SOHO) setup).
Spanning Tree Enable = [enabled | disabled]
Checking this item enables Spanning Tree bridging. In case you do not use networking protocols other than
IP and IPX, disabling bridging will make the router more efficient.
Bridging requires that the router see each and every packet on the connected LAN segment. This overhead is
avoided when you disable the bridge. Note that if you enable bridging and disable routing of IP or IPX,
bridging of these protocol packets takes place. You will need bridging to support networking protocols like
NetBIOS.
Message Printing Control = [enable l disabled]
Check items for which you would like messages displayed on the console terminal. Normally all items should
be disabled as enabling them will degrade router performance.
Spanning Tree Port State = [SS],[disabled | listening | learning | forwarding |
blocking]
Defines the initial state of the port when running Spanning Tree algorithm. Set this parameter to the
BLOCKING state to configure normal Spanning Tree operation. The Spanning Tree will transition from the
BLOCKING state to fully automatic operation. Ports in the initial state of DISABLED will not participate in
bridging.
Spanning Tree Port Path Cost = [SS],[decimal value]
Defines the cost associated with the specified port when running the Spanning Tree algorithm. Path cost is
indicative of the relative cost of using this port to bridge to a distant network. Path cost is defined as 1000
divided by the megabit data rate of the network attached to the specified port. For example :
if the data rate is 19200 bps(i.e. 0.019M bps), then
cost = 1000 / 0.019
= 50000