Network + Quiz #20 - IEEE Standards 3

[mikesgroovin]

Which IEEE 802 standard includes an algorithm to prevent network loops in routing tables?


Answer: D - 802.1

Explanation: Without sounding too confusing...check this site out.

 

[Harold III]

so you are talking about spanning tree protocol... no... prevent loops in routing table??? 802.1 doesn't deal with routing.... you are insane mike...

 

[mikesgroovin]

Well, perhaps the wording could have been used better here. Routing table (as in used by a router.....no, of course not in 802.1). But, a routing table for MAC addresses? (absolutely). A switch to switch environment also makes very simple MAC address related "routing" decisions. It wasn't intended to be a trick question but I can see where someone may have gotten confused. But if you were to fully read the 802.1D standard...it's quite clear. When using the STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) as you mentioned, these switches almost turn into smart switches that can handle a Layer3 decision but still communicate of layer2. The "routing table" used in the STP does include about 6-7 fields that uniquely ID the next bridge in the segment.
Sorry about the confusion.

-Mike

 

[Harold III]

well sounds interesting, I'll read your 802.1D

 

[perkoset]

so by mac bridges you are refering to layer 3 switches??

 

[mikesgroovin]

Sort of, they are able to make "layer3 smart" decisions as a normal layer3 switch would be able to make.