Tutorials · Switching
How to Configure Link Aggregation (LACP) Between Switches
Bundle two or more links into one logical link for more bandwidth and redundancy using IEEE 802.3ad LACP.
Before you start
- Two switches that support LACP
- Identical speed and duplex on all member ports
- Matching VLAN configuration on both sides
Step by step
Choose member ports
Use ports of the same speed. Spreading members across stack units or modules adds resilience.
Create the port-channel
Configure LACP active mode on both switches.
interface range tengigabitEthernet 0/1-2 channel-group 1 mode active
Configure the logical interface
Apply trunk and VLAN settings on the port-channel, not on the members.
interface port-channel 1 switchport mode trunk switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20,30,99
Verify
Both links should show as bundled.
show etherchannel summary show lacp neighbor
Commands are generic, industry-standard examples. Exact syntax and menu names vary by model and firmware; check your device's manual on the Documentation page.
Pro tips
- A single flow uses one member link; the aggregate bandwidth benefits many flows.
- Never bundle ports to different switches unless they form a stack or support multi-chassis aggregation.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What happens if one link fails?
Traffic moves to the remaining links automatically, usually within a second.
Keep learning
Related guides
ERPS ring protection
Read more →How to Configure VLANs on a Managed Switch
Separate staff, guests, voice and cameras into their own VLANs: create VLANs, set access and trunk ports, and verify traffic separation.
Read more →How to Set Up Inter-VLAN Routing on a Layer 3 Switch
Route between VLANs at wire speed using switch virtual interfaces (SVIs), a DHCP relay and ACLs that control which networks can talk.
Read more →How to Prevent Network Loops With Spanning Tree (RSTP)
Stop broadcast storms caused by loops: enable RSTP, choose the root bridge, and protect edge ports with BPDU guard.
Read more →Stuck on a step?
Ask Navijin technical support or an authorised partner for help with your configuration.