User Manual

3-6. Link Aggregation

Basically, Link Aggregation is to aggregate the bandwidth of more than one port to an assigned logical link. This highly increases total bandwidth to the targeted device. There is more than one Link Aggregation technology in many vendors’ switch products already, which may cause the problem of interoperability. This is the reason why now we have 802.3ad LinkAggregation Control Protocol (LACP).

Why 802.3ad (LACP)?

Network is varying. For example, if a port malfunctioned or unplugged accidentally in a static trunk port, administrator has to reconfigure it, or the network will get trouble. Therefore, offering a tool with automatic recovery capability is necessary for an administrator. LACP is a protocol that allows a switch able to know whether its partner has the capability to co-setup a trunk between them.

Usually, if administrator wishes to increase the bandwidth of a specific link, he may:

Buy new network equipments with higher throughput, or

2. Aggregate the bandwidth of more than one port to a logical link.

If the item 1 is the case, you will pay much more cost beyond your budget, and the solution caused by the limitation of hardware performance may not be scalable.

If the item 2 is the case, now you do not have to pay much more extra cost and can keep flexible according to the demand of bandwidth because all equipments are there already. And what’s more, you can avoid worrying about the interoperability issue. Applying LACP in your network, you will not only gain benefits below to improve the performance of your network but also have these investments usable to future new products.

Public standardized specification No interoperability issue

No change to IEEE 802.3 frame format, no change in software and management.

Increased bandwidth and availability Load sharing and redundancy Automatic configuration

Rapid configuration and reconfiguration Deterministic behavior

Low risk of duplication or mis-ordering Support existing IEEE 802.3 MAC Clients

Backwards compatibility with aggregation-unaware devices

There are also some constraints when applying LACP.

LACP does not support inter-switch bandwidth aggregation. The ports aggregated must operate in full-duplex mode.

The ports in the same LinkAggregation Group must have the same speed, for example, all with 100Mbps or all 1000Mbps. You cannot aggregate a 1000Mbps and two 100Mbps for a 1.2Gbps trunk port.

Publication date: January, 2005

Revision A1

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Edimax Technology ES-516G+ user manual Link Aggregation
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ES-516G+ specifications

Edimax Technology has carved a niche for itself in the realm of networking devices, and one of its standout products is the Edimax ES-516G+. This 16-port Ethernet switch is designed to meet the demanding needs of small to medium-sized businesses and network enthusiasts.

At the core of the ES-516G+ is its capacity to support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds across its 16 ports, enabling efficient data transmission and minimal latency for connected devices. This switch is a Layer 2 unmanaged switch, which simplifies the user experience by eliminating the need for complex configurations. Users can plug in their devices and start functioning immediately, making it an ideal option for those who may not have extensive networking knowledge.

One of the key features of the Edimax ES-516G+ is its support for Auto-MDI/MDI-X, which automatically detects the type of connection required for each port, whether it’s connecting to another switch or end devices like computers and printers. This eliminates the hassle of crossover cables and ensures seamless connectivity.

Moreover, the ES-516G+ incorporates advanced energy-saving technologies that are designed to minimize power consumption without compromising performance. This feature is particularly appealing for environmentally-conscious businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint. It includes capabilities such as energy-efficient Ethernet (EEE), which adjusts power usage based on the link status and length of connected cables.

The switch features a compact metal housing, providing durability and a professional look suitable for any office environment. It also supports a fanless design for quiet operation, making it an excellent addition to workplaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.

In terms of performance, the Edimax ES-516G+ employs store-and-forward switching technology, which helps to minimize errors by ensuring that only error-free packets are forwarded. This significantly enhances network performance and reliability.

Overall, the Edimax Technology ES-516G+ stands out as a robust, efficient, and user-friendly solution for enhancing network performance in small to medium-sized businesses. Its combination of speed, plug-and-play convenience, energy-saving features, and reliability makes it a compelling choice for users seeking to expand their network capabilities. Whether for a bustling office or a home network, the ES-516G+ is engineered to deliver a seamless, high-performance networking experience.
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