Reference Guide

404 | Interfaces
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Configuration Task List for Physical Interfaces
By default, all interfaces are operationally disabled and traffic will not pass through them.
The following section includes information about optional configurations for physical interfaces:
• Overview of Layer Modes
• Configuring Layer 2 (Data Link) Mode
• Management Interfaces
• Adjusting the keepalive timer
• Clearing interface counters
Overview of Layer Modes
On all systems running Dell Networking OS, you can place physical interfaces, port channels, and VLANs
in Layer 2 mode or Layer 3 mode. By default, VLANs are in Layer 2 mode.
Configuring Layer 2 (Data Link) Mode
Use the switchport command in INTERFACE mode to enable Layer 2 data transmissions through an
individual interface. The user can not configure switching or Layer 2 protocols such as spanning tree
protocol on an interface unless the interface has been set to Layer 2 mode.
Table 21-1. Interfaces Types
Type of Interface
Possible
Modes
Requires
Creation Default State
10-Gigabit Ethernet
40-Gigabit Ethernet
Layer 2
Layer 3
No Shutdown (disabled)
Management n/a No Shutdown (disabled)
Loopback Layer 3 Yes No shutdown (enabled)
Null interface n/a No Enabled
Port Channel Layer 2
Layer 3
Yes Shutdown (disabled)
VLAN Layer 2
Layer 3
Yes, except for the
default VLAN
No shutdown (active for Layer 2)
Shutdown (disabled for Layer 3)
Fibre Channel n/a No Shutdown (disabled)