Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP)

Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol, or MSTP, is a network protocol designed to prevent loops in redundant Layer 2 networks. Defined within IEEE 802.1Q, it allows multiple VLANs to be mapped to shared Spanning Tree instances. Each instance can use its own logical network topology, enabling redundant links to be utilised more efficiently and traffic from different VLAN groups to follow different network paths. MSTP also reduces management overhead compared with approaches that maintain a separate Spanning Tree instance for every VLAN. Networks can be organised into MST regions that share a consistent configuration. MSTP is particularly suitable for larger enterprise and campus networks requiring redundant connections, multiple VLANs and a scalable Layer 2 infrastructure.