Using a Switch

Systems that are configured with trunk aggregations might use an external switch to connect to other systems. The following figure depicts a local network with two systems where each system has a trunk aggregation configured.

Figure 2-2  Trunk Aggregation Using a Switch

The two systems are connected by a switch. System A has a trunk aggregation that consists of two datalinks, net1 and net2. These datalinks are connected to the switch through aggregated ports. System B has a trunk aggregation of four datalinks, net1 through net4. These datalinks are also connected to the aggregated ports on the switch. In this trunk aggregation topology, the switch must support the IEEE 802.3ad standard and the switch ports must be configured for aggregation. See the switch manufacturer's documentation to configure the switch.