Match The Spanning-Tree Feature With The Protocol Type. (Not All Options Are Used.)

The task "Match the Spanning-Tree feature with the protocol type" requires associating specific STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) functionalities—such as Rapid PVST+, MSTP, or STP—with their corresponding protocol versions, excluding unused options. This exercise tests knowledge of features like port roles, BPDU handling, or convergence times unique to each STP variant.

Tech Professionals

08 April 2025

Match The Spanning-Tree Feature With The Protocol Type. (Not All Options Are Used.)

Introduction to STP

The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a fundamental concept in network switching, ensuring loop-free topologies in Ethernet networks. For those preparing for the Cisco 200-301 certification, understanding STP and its variants is crucial. This article explores different Spanning-Tree features and matches them with the correct protocol type, helping you master this topic for the exam.

Additionally, we highlight the importance of reliable study resources like Study4Pass, which offers high-quality Cisco 200-301 study materials to help you pass your exam with confidence.

Understanding Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)

STP prevents network loops by blocking redundant paths while allowing backup paths in case of link failures. Over time, Cisco has introduced multiple STP enhancements to improve efficiency. Below are the key STP variants and their features:

  1. STP (802.1D) – Original standard
  2. PVST+ (Per-VLAN Spanning Tree Plus) – Cisco proprietary
  3. Rapid PVST+ – Cisco’s enhanced version with faster convergence
  4. MST (Multiple Spanning Tree, 802.1s) – Maps multiple VLANs to a single instance

Matching Spanning-Tree Features with Protocol Types

Feature

Protocol Type

Description

Default STP Protocol

802.1D (STP)

The original STP standard with slow convergence (50 sec).

Per-VLAN Spanning Tree

PVST+

Cisco’s extension of STP that runs a separate instance per VLAN.

Fast Convergence

Rapid PVST+

Uses RSTP (802.1w) for faster convergence (2-3 sec).

Multiple VLANs per Instance

MST (802.1s)

Groups VLANs into instances to reduce CPU overhead.

Backward Compatibility

PVST+

Works with both traditional STP and RSTP.

BPDU Guard

All STP Types

Protects against rogue switches by disabling ports receiving BPDUs.

UplinkFast

802.1D (Legacy)

Accelerates failover when an uplink fails (deprecated in newer STP versions).

PortFast

All STP Types

Skips the listening/learning state for end-user ports.

Key Takeaways:

  • STP (802.1D) is outdated but foundational.
  • PVST+ is Cisco’s improvement, allowing per-VLAN STP.
  • Rapid PVST+ is the recommended choice for modern networks.
  • MST is ideal for large networks with many VLANs.

Why This Topic Matters for Cisco 200-301 Exam?

The Cisco 200-301 exam tests your knowledge of STP operations, including:

  • Differences between STP types
  • How BPDUs work
  • Port roles (Root, Designated, Blocked)
  • Convergence times

Mastering these concepts ensures you can troubleshoot switching loops and optimize network stability, which are critical for real-world networking roles.

How Study4Pass Helps You Succeed in Cisco 200-301?

Preparing for the Cisco 200-301 exam requires structured learning and practice. Study4Pass provides:

  • Comprehensive Study Guides – Detailed explanations of STP and other exam topics.
  • Practice Questions – Simulate real exam scenarios.
  • Hands-on Labs – Virtual labs to practice STP configurations.
  • Exam Tips & Tricks – Expert strategies to maximize your score.

By choosing Study4Pass, you gain access to trusted, up-to-date materials that align with Cisco exam objectives.

Final Words

Matching Spanning-Tree features with protocol types is essential for both the Cisco 200-301 exam and real-world networking. Understanding STP, PVST+, Rapid PVST+, and MST ensures you can design and troubleshoot efficient networks.

For the best preparation, rely on Study4Pass—your ultimate resource for Cisco 200-301 study materials. Start your journey today and pass with confidence!

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Actual exam question from Cisco's 200-301 Exam.

Sample Questions for Cisco 200-301 Exam Prep

1. Which Spanning-Tree Protocol uses "PortFast" to bypass the listening and learning states?

A) RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol)

B) MSTP (Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol)

C) PVST+ (Per-VLAN Spanning Tree Plus)

D) All of the above

2. Which protocol introduces the concept of "Alternate Ports" and "Backup Ports"?

A) STP (802.1D)

B) RSTP (802.1w)

C) PVST+

D) MSTP

3. Which Spanning-Tree Protocol allows for multiple VLANs to be mapped to a single spanning-tree instance?

A) PVST+

B) RSTP

C) MSTP

D) STP

4. Which protocol is the original IEEE 802.1D standard with slow convergence times?

A) RSTP

B) STP

C) PVST+

D) MSTP

5. Which feature is unique to PVST+ and not part of traditional STP?

A) One spanning-tree instance for all VLANs

B) A separate spanning-tree instance per VLAN

C) No support for VLANs

D) Uses only one root bridge for the entire network