Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP), as defined by IEEE 802.1s, combines the best aspects from both RSTP and VLAN. In MSTP, several VLANs can be mapped to single spanning-tree instance called MST-Instance (MSTI) and each instance is independent of other spanning-tree instances. This approach provides multiple forwarding paths for data traffic, enabling load balancing, and reduces the number of spanning-tree instances required to support a large number of VLANs.
Net-O2 ATTEST MSTP test cases perform conformance testing for both Common and Internal Spanning Tree (CIST) and Multi Spanning Tree Instance (MSTI) scenarios for active topology, port roles and port states. In addition, the test cases support verification with combinations of STP and RSTP situations for compatibility to legacy switches and networks and VLAN related aspects such as Filtering Database, Ingress Egress Rules and Dynamic VLANs using GVRP.
Together with other Layer-2 bridging test suites such as VLAN, RSTP, STP, 802.1X and
LACP, Net-O2 provides one of the most comprehensive solutions for conformance testing of Ethernet Switches. Layer-3 Test suites are also available.
