When you assign link names, observe the following rules:
Link names consist of a string and a physical point of attachment (PPA) number.
The name must abide by the following constraints:
Names consist of between 3 to 8 characters. However, names can have a maximum of 16 characters.
Valid characters for names are alphanumeric (a-z, 0–9) and the underscore ('_').
Do not use upper case letters on link names.
Each data link must have only one link name at one time.
Each data link must have a unique link name within the system.
As an added restriction, you cannot use lo0 as a flexible link name. This name is reserved to identify the IP loopback interface.
The function of the link within your network setup can be a useful reference when you assign link names. For example, netmgt0 can be a link that is dedicated to network management. Upstream2 can be the link that connects to the ISP. As a general rule to avoid confusion, do not assign names of known devices to your links.