What type of frames does a switch send every 2 seconds to maintain STP topology?

In Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), switches send Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs) every 2 seconds to maintain and manage the network topology. BPDUs are critical for the operation of STP, as they allow switches to communicate information about their ports, path costs, and the overall topology of the network. This periodic transmission helps the switches to detect changes in the network, such as when devices are added or removed, which is essential for preventing loops and ensuring a loop-free topology.

The use of BPDUs ensures that all switches in an STP-enabled network are aligned on the current active topology and can work together to select a root bridge and determine the best paths within the topology. This regular interval is crucial for the efficiency and stability of the network, as it allows for the timely detection of topology changes.

In contrast, other frame types listed do not fulfill the role that BPDUs play in the context of STP. For instance, Routing Information Protocol frames are used for routing updates in IP networks, Ethernet frames are the basic unit of data transmission over Ethernet networks but do not specifically relate to STP, and Internet Control Message Protocol frames are utilized for operational purposes such as error messages and diagnostics. Thus, the periodic