Episode 32: Port Aggregation with LACP — Bundling Links for Redundancy and Speed
In high-performance or high-availability environments, a single uplink isn’t always enough. That’s where port aggregation comes in. This episode explores how to combine multiple physical links into a single logical channel using the Link Aggregation Control Protocol, or LACP. You’ll learn how LACP negotiates bundle formation between switches or between a switch and a server, and how it prevents loops by acting like a single link. We cover typical configuration steps, show how LACP interacts with VLANs and STP, and clarify what happens when one or more links in the bundle go down.
We also explain how port aggregation improves both redundancy and bandwidth, allowing you to increase throughput and reliability without changing your logical topology. Topics like load balancing algorithms, active/passive modes, and how to test aggregated links are all covered in practical detail. Whether you're studying for the exam or designing a scalable network, this episode gives you the knowledge needed to plan and implement LACP with confidence. You’ll walk away knowing how to maximize your infrastructure while minimizing single points of failure.
