One embodiment relates to a method of selecting a root node for a spanning tree. Spanning trees are simulated with different nodes as the root node. An optimality criterion is calculated for each simulated spanning tree. Another embodiment relates to a network management apparatus that includes a processor, memory for storing processor-executable instructions and data, an internal communication system, and at least one port. The memory includes a) processor-executable code configured to simulate spanning trees with different nodes as the root node, and b) processor-executable code configured to calculate an optimality criterion for each simulated spanning tree. Other embodiments are also disclosed.