Link aggregation#Link Aggregation Control Protocol

The Link Aggregation Control Protocol ( LACP) is a network protocol according to IEEE 802.3ad for dynamic convergence of physical network connections.

Using LACP redundant physical links between switches and servers can be combined into one logical link. This load distribution to all involved in the logical link physical connections is reached, and also increased the reliability of the connection.

Standardization

The LACP is the official IEEE standard for link aggregation technology dar. Link Aggregation refers to the dynamic clustering of multiple physical links between two network devices to a logical connection. Besides LACP still exist proprietary solutions for dynamic bundling, for example, the PAgP Cisco MESH HP. Further still exist countless static link aggregation methods that are all more or less proprietary, and thus can not be used across manufacturers.

Unofficial synonyms

Formerly link aggregation instead of the term, the term trunking ( bundling) used.