* Understanding Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): * STP is used to prevent network loops in Ethernet networks by creating a spanning tree that selectively blocks some redundant paths. * Default Priority Value: * Bridge Priority: STP uses bridge priority to determine which switch becomes the root bridge. The default bridge priority value for most switches is 32768. * Priority Range: The bridge priority can be set in increments of 4096, ranging from 0 to 61440. * Configuration and Verification: * When deploying a new switch, the network administrator can verify the bridge priority using commands such as show spanning-tree to ensure it is set to the default value of 32768. * Comparison with Other Values: * 4096 and 8192: Lower than the default priority, indicating these would be manually configured for higher preference. * 36684: A non-standard value, likely a result of specific configuration changes. References: * CompTIA Network+ study materials on Spanning Tree Protocol and network configuration.