What is virtual trunking protocol VTP?

Virtual Trunking Protocol (VTP) is a Cisco proprietary protocol used in switched networks to manage VLAN configurations across multiple switches. It allows switches to share VLAN information, ensuring consistency in VLAN configuration throughout the network. VTP reduces the need for manual VLAN configuration on each switch, thereby simplifying network management and reducing the risk of errors. It operates in different modes, including server, client, and transparent, each with specific roles in VLAN information dissemination.