Also can make use of multiple paths to same destination. Because paths aren't required to always lie along the spanning tree, better use of resources. This is a significant disadvantage. Installing new bridges non-trivial. Specifically, a system administrator must assign LAN numbers and bridge numbers.
Improper configuration leads to disaster.
With spanning tree bridges, the bridges hold that responsibility, and once they have reconfigured, all hosts start using the new path at the same time. Not surprisingly, IBM supports source routing bridges, while DEC supports spanning tree bridges. IBM markets token ring networks, while DEC has always been big on Ethernets. Text calls gateways multi-protocol routers. Fragmenting large packets for transmission across networks that carry only small maximum packet lengths.