Reference Guide
Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
This chapter contains commands for Dell Networks’s implementation of the link aggregation control
protocol (LACP) for creating dynamic link aggregation groups (LAGs) — known as port-channels in the
Dell Networking Operating System (OS).
NOTE: For static LAG commands, refer to the Interfaces chapter), based on the standards specified
in the IEEE 802.3 Carrier sense multiple access with collision detection (CSMA/CD) access method
and physical layer specifications.
Configuration Tasks for Port Channel Interfaces
To configure a port channel (LAG), use the commands similar to those found in physical interfaces. By
default, no port channels are configured in the startup configuration.
These are the mandatory and optional configuration tasks:
• Creating a Port Channel (mandatory)
• Adding a Physical Interface to a Port Channel (mandatory)
• Reassigning an Interface to a New Port Channel (optional)
• Configuring the Minimum Oper Up Links in a Port Channel (optional)
• Adding or Removing a Port Channel from a VLAN (optional)
• Deleting or Disabling a Port Channel (optional)
Creating a Port Channel
You can create up to 128 port channels with eight port members per group on the Aggregator.
To configure a port channel, use the following commands.
1. Create a port channel.
CONFIGURATION mode
interface port-channel id-number
2. Ensure that the port channel is active.
INTERFACE PORT-CHANNEL mode
no shutdown
After you enable the port channel, you can place it in Layer 3 mode. To configure an IP address to place
the port channel in Layer 3 mode, use the switchport command.
You can configure a port channel as you would a physical interface by enabling or configuring protocols
or assigning access control lists.
Adding a Physical Interface to a Port Channel
The physical interfaces in a port channel can be on any line card in the chassis, but must be the same
physical type.
NOTE: Port channels can contain a mix of Gigabit Ethernet and 10/100/1000 Ethernet interfaces,
but Dell Networking OS disables the interfaces that are not the same speed of the first channel
member in the port channel.
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Link Aggregation