DTP (Dynamic Trunking Protocol)

Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) is a network protocol used by switches to automatically negotiate and establish a trunk link, which allows multiple VLANs (virtual networks) to pass through a single physical connection. It simplifies network management by enabling switches to share VLAN information without manual configuration. DTP helps ensure efficient and flexible network setup, especially in environments where VLANs are frequently changed or expanded. However, because it can introduce security risks if misconfigured, many networks disable DTP to maintain better control over trunking.