Rules for Valid Link Names

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 ('_').

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    Caution –

    Do not use upper case letters on link names.

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• 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.