How can redundancy in a switched network be increased?

Increasing redundancy in a switched network is best achieved by implementing multiple switch paths and deploying Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to ensure loop-free operation. This approach allows a network to maintain multiple active paths between switches, providing alternative routes for data to travel in case of a failure in one path.

Redundancy is crucial for network reliability because it minimizes the risk of downtime. When multiple paths are established, if one switch or connection fails, traffic can be automatically rerouted through another available path, ensuring continuous connectivity. The Spanning Tree Protocol plays a vital role by preventing network loops that can occur when there are multiple active paths. It does this by defining a single loop-free path while placing redundant links in a standby state until they're needed.

The other options do not effectively contribute to increased redundancy. Reducing the number of switches in the network would likely decrease redundancy, as there would be fewer paths available for data, leading to potential single points of failure. Using only wireless devices can create its own challenges and does not inherently increase redundancy; in fact, wireless connections often introduce variability and potential reliability issues. Limiting data traffic to essential applications may optimize performance but does not contribute to redundancy; it could even jeopardize overall network availability if essential communications are