Configuring a switched network with redundant links, spanning tree protocol (STP), root bridges, and root ports is crucial for ensuring network reliability and resilience. Here's a detailed description of the process:

1. Understanding Redundant Links:
In a switched network, redundant links are additional physical connections between switches. They are implemented to provide backup paths in case of link failure, enhancing network reliability and fault tolerance.

2. Implementing Spanning Tree Protocol (STP):
STP is a protocol used to prevent loops in Ethernet networks with redundant links. It works by dynamically disabling redundant paths while keeping the primary paths active. This prevents the formation of loops that can lead to broadcast storms and network instability.

3. Designating Root Bridge:
In STP, one switch is elected as the root bridge, which serves as the reference point for all other switches in the network. The root bridge is responsible for calculating the shortest path to reach all other switches and ensures a loopfree topology.

4. Configuring Root Ports:
Each nonroot bridge switch in the network selects one of its ports as the root port, which provides the shortest path to the root bridge. The root port is the port through which the switch sends its traffic towards the root bridge.

5. Configuring Redundant Links:
Redundant links are configured between switches to provide backup connectivity and ensure network resilience. These links must be properly configured to avoid loops and adhere to STP rules.

6. Ensuring Redundancy and Load Balancing:
Redundant links can also be used for load balancing purposes, distributing traffic across multiple paths to optimize network performance. This requires careful configuration to avoid congestion and ensure an even distribution of traffic.

7. Monitoring and Maintenance:
After configuring the network, continuous monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure its smooth operation. Regularly checking STP status, identifying and resolving potential issues, and updating configurations as needed are critical tasks for network administrators.

By following these steps and best practices, configuring a switched network with redundant links, STP, root bridges, and root ports can result in a robust and reliable network infrastructure capable of handling failures and providing uninterrupted connectivity to users.