Port Aggregation

Topic

This article describes the Port Aggregation feature of the Datto Networking Appliance (DNA).

Environment

  • Datto Networking Appliance

Description

The Port Aggregation feature allows an operator to combine two or more NICs to act as a single logical link (LACP interface). Aggregation enables improved connection performance, as well as redundancy for inter-network traffic passing through the DNA.

To access the Port Aggregation card, log in to the DNA web interface, and click System, as shown in Figure 1.

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Figure 1: System

From the System page, click the New Port Aggregation link. You will see the New Port Aggregation card shown in Figure 2.


Figure 2: New Port Aggregation

To add an LACP interface, enter a name for the configuration in the Description box. Then, select two or more ports to combine into a single link. Click Save Changes to save the configuration.

If you are using this feature on an appliance connected to a switch, and you make any changes to the LACP configuration on the DNA, you will need to make corresponding changes to the switch as well.

Monitoring Port Status

You can monitor the status of your LACP interface from the Port Overview card on the DNA's Status page, shown in Figure 3.


Figure 3: Port Overview

Technical Notes

  • The DNA's port aggregation feature conforms to the IEEE 802.3ad standard (LACP) and is compatible with OpenMesh / Datto Managed Networking switches.
  • An Ethernet port cannot be a member of an LACP interface and used as a standalone port at the same time.
  • The LACP interface can include 2-4 ports; you can create as many LACP interfaces as you have LAN ports available.
  • LACP interfaces are compatible with the same features as a normal standalone LAN port, such as native LANs and tagged VLANs.