Create Link Aggregation

Link aggregation, also known as port trunking or bonding, refers to combining multiple physical network ports into a single logical port. This enables load balancing of inbound and outbound traffic across all member ports.

Main Benefits

• Increased Bandwidth: Multiple network cables transmit data simultaneously, enhancing overall throughput.
• Redundancy: If one link fails, traffic is automatically redistributed to the remaining active links, ensuring uninterrupted service.

Mode Descriptions

1. Load Balancing Mode - bond6 (Recommended): No switch configuration is required. The system automatically distributes traffic among multiple ports. Compatible with the bond5 (balance-tlb) mode.
2. Active/Backup Mode - bond1: No switch configuration is required. Only one port is active at a time for traffic. If the primary port fails, it automatically switches to a backup port.
3. Dynamic Link Aggregation Mode - bond4: Automatically negotiates and aggregates multiple physical links with a compatible switch to achieve increased bandwidth, link redundancy, and load balancing. Switch configuration required: "Enable LACP (Link Aggregation Control Protocol), preferably in Active Negotiation mode."
4. Balance-XOR Mode - bond2: Total bandwidth is the sum of all port bandwidths, offering better performance than bond0. Switch configuration required: Enable static aggregation (EtherChannel/Port Channel) on the corresponding ports.
5. Round-Robin Mode - bond0 (Not Recommended): May cause TCP packet reordering, which can degrade performance. Under similar conditions, using bond2 is recommended instead. Switch configuration required: Enable static aggregation on the corresponding ports.
6. Broadcast Mode - bond3 (Not Recommended): Provides only high reliability by transmitting all traffic on all ports. This generates redundant traffic and wastes resources, and is therefore not recommended. Switch configuration required: Enable static aggregation on the corresponding ports.

How to set up:

1. Click "Settings" on the homepage, select "Network Management," and enter the network management interface. Click "Create Link Aggregation."

Switch Link Aggregation Configuration

Note: Bond1 and Bond6 do not require any configuration on the switch.

Configuration for Bond0, Bond2, and Bond4 Modes:

1. Log in to the management interface of your switch.
2. Locate the link aggregation settings and create a new link aggregation group.
3. Add the corresponding physical ports on the switch to this aggregation group.
4. Save the configuration and restart the switch if required.

Important Notes:

• Compatibility Check: Some switches may not support link aggregation. Please contact your switch manufacturer to confirm whether your specific model supports link aggregation and which bonding modes (e.g., static/LACP) are supported.
• Model-Specific Instructions: The exact steps for configuring link aggregation vary by switch brand and model. Always refer to the official user manual or configuration guide for your specific switch.
• Temporary Network Disruption: Creating or deleting a link aggregation group may cause a brief network interruption. This is normal behavior.
• Pre-change Procedure: Before replacing your router or changing network segments, ensure your device's network settings are switched back to DHCP (automatic IP address acquisition).
• Network Recovery: If misconfiguration occurs or you lose access to the device, you can reset the NAS network settings to DHCP by pressing and holding the device's Reset button for 10 seconds while it is powered on.