> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mudassirs46.gitbook.io/network-fundamentals/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mudassirs46.gitbook.io/network-fundamentals/rstp-port-states.md).

# RSTP Port States

[RSTP ](https://app.gitbook.com/@mudassirs46/s/network-fundamentals/~/drafts/-MRZ8l67L5MHnaQIEh9W/rstp-rapid-spanning-tree)moves an interface from blocking to learning, and then to forwarding state.

### Discarding State (Disabled/Blocking):

* Ports are either Administratively disabled (shut) by an Admin or is in Blocking State. (RSTP names the Disabled & Blocking State both as the Discarding State)
* Alternate Ports are in a Discarding State to block the port on the loop to break the loop.
* In Discarding State, Alternate Ports will just be able to receive the RB BPDUs but won't be able to send any BPDU, Learn MAC Address or Forward Data Packets.

  **Learning State:**
* In Learning State, ports will send & receive BPDUs & will also learn the MAC Address but won't be able to Forward the Data Packets.
* There is no 15 seconds timer for RSTP Learning State.

  **Forwarding State:**
* Root Ports & the Designated Ports are in Forwarding State.
* In Forwarding State, ports will not only be able to Send & Receive the BPDUs but will also be able to Learn the MAC Addresses & Forward the Data Packets.

## Reference:

* CCNA 200-301 OCG, Volume 1, Pg. 229-232 - Wendell Odom.
* RST Notes
* <https://vimeo.com/ondemand/ccna200301/397383756?autoplay=1>