BLADEOS 6.5.2 Application Guide

Link Aggregation Control Protocol

Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) is an IEEE 802.3ad standard for grouping several physical ports into one logical port (known as a dynamic trunk group or Link Aggregation group) with any device that supports the standard. Please refer to IEEE 802.3ad-2002 for a full description of the standard.

The 802.3ad standard allows standard Ethernet links to form a single Layer 2 link using the Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP). Link aggregation is a method of grouping physical link segments of the same media type and speed in full duplex, and treating them as if they were part of a single, logical link segment. If a link in a LACP trunk group fails, traffic is reassigned dynamically to the remaining link(s) of the dynamic trunk group.

Note – LACP implementation in the BLADEOS does not support the Churn machine, an option used to detect if the port is operable within a bounded time period between the actor and the partner. Only the Marker Responder is implemented, and there is no marker protocol generator.

A port’s Link Aggregation Identifier (LAG ID) determines how the port can be aggregated. The Link Aggregation ID (LAG ID) is constructed mainly from the system ID and the port’s admin key, as follows:

￿System ID: an integer value based on the switch’s MAC address and the system priority assigned in the CLI.

￿Admin key: a port’s Admin key is an integer value (1-65535) that you can configure in the CLI. Each switch port that participates in the same LACP trunk group must have the same admin key value. The Admin key is local significant, which means the partner switch does not need to use the same Admin key value.

For example, consider two switches, an Actor (the G8124) and a Partner (another switch), as shown in Table 10.

Table 10 Actor vs. Partner LACP configuration

Actor Switch

Partner Switch 1

 

 

Port 7 (admin key = 100)

Port 1 (admin key = 50)

 

 

Port 8 (admin key = 100)

Port 2 (admin key = 50)

 

 

In the configuration shown in Table 10, Actor switch port 7 and port 8 aggregate to form an LACP trunk group with Partner switch port 1 and port 2.

LACP automatically determines which member links can be aggregated and then aggregates them. It provides for the controlled addition and removal of physical links for the link aggregation.

BMD00220, October 2010

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Blade ICE G8124-E manual Link Aggregation Control Protocol, Actor vs. Partner Lacp configuration
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G8124-E, G8124 specifications

The Blade ICE G8124 is a cutting-edge networking solution designed for high-performance data center environments. It has emerged as a popular choice among organizations that require reliable and efficient network infrastructure to support their growing demands for bandwidth and low-latency connectivity.

One of the key features of the Blade ICE G8124 is its high port density. This networking device typically offers 24 ports of 10 Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring that businesses can connect numerous devices without requiring extensive physical space. The design is also scalable, accommodating future expansion as organizational needs grow.

Another significant aspect of the G8124 is its advanced switching capabilities. It utilizes a non-blocking architecture, enabling simultaneous data transmissions on all ports. This characteristic ensures that there is no bottleneck in the network traffic, providing the high performance needed in data-intensive applications.

The G8124 incorporates various technologies to enhance its functionalities. It supports Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, making it versatile for different networking needs. Additionally, it features comprehensive Quality of Service (QoS) settings that prioritize critical applications, such as VoIP and video streaming, ensuring smooth operation even under heavy loads.

In terms of security, the Blade ICE G8124 provides robust measures to protect the network. It supports features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and VLANs, allowing administrators to segment the network and restrict unauthorized access. These security capabilities are vital in today’s landscape, where cyber threats are increasingly common.

Moreover, the G8124 offers excellent management features. It includes an intuitive user interface for easy configuration and monitoring of network performance. SNMP support allows integration with network management systems, providing administrators with insights needed to optimize their operations.

Power efficiency is also a hallmark of the Blade ICE G8124. It employs energy-saving technologies that reduce operational costs, an essential factor for environmentally-conscious organizations striving to minimize their carbon footprint.

In summary, the Blade ICE G8124 stands out with its high port density, advanced switching capabilities, robust security features, and efficient management options. This networking solution is designed to meet the demands of modern data centers, providing the performance, reliability, and scalability that organizations require. With its innovative technologies, the G8124 ensures that businesses can navigate the complexities of today's networking landscape effectively.
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