Do interfaces in a blocking state send or receive regular network traffic?

Do interfaces in a blocking state send or receive regular network traffic?

• A. Yes, they send
• B. Yes, they receive
• C. No, they do not send or receive
• D. Yes, but only during transitions

Answer: (C)

In a blocking state, an interface does not send or receive regular network traffic. This state is part of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) process, which is designed to prevent loops in network topologies. When an interface is in the blocking state, it is effectively disabled from participating in sending or receiving data frames to maintain the integrity of the network. This state is critical during network topology changes, as STP determines which interfaces should be active in forwarding traffic and which should remain inactive to avoid potential broadcast storms. The blocking state ensures that only one active path exists to a destination, preserving network efficiency and stability. Therefore, stating that interfaces in a blocking state do not send or receive any regular network traffic is correct, as their role is purely to monitor the network and transition to a forwarding state when necessary.

In a blocking state, an interface does not send or receive regular network traffic. This state is part of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) process, which is designed to prevent loops in network topologies. When an interface is in the blocking state, it is effectively disabled from participating in sending or receiving data frames to maintain the integrity of the network.

This state is critical during network topology changes, as STP determines which interfaces should be active in forwarding traffic and which should remain inactive to avoid potential broadcast storms. The blocking state ensures that only one active path exists to a destination, preserving network efficiency and stability.

Therefore, stating that interfaces in a blocking state do not send or receive any regular network traffic is correct, as their role is purely to monitor the network and transition to a forwarding state when necessary.