EtherChannel bundles multiple physical links into a single logical port-channel. The CCNA tests LACP vs PAgP vs static EtherChannel, the mode combinations that form a channel, and common configuration errors. These appear as configuration tasks and troubleshooting scenarios.
Start Scenario PracticeAn EtherChannel should form using LACP between two switches. One side is configured for LACP active, and the other side is configured for LACP active. What is the expected result if the other link settings also match?
Explanation: The EtherChannel should form successfully if the underlying link settings are compatible. LACP active/active is a valid combination, as both switches actively negotiate the bundle. However, the channel does not automatically become a routed interface (option C is incorrect because EtherChannel can operate as Layer 2 or Layer 3 depending on configuration, not automatically due to LACP mode). Additionally, VLAN tags are not removed by default from the bundle (option D is incorrect; VLAN tagging is preserved based on the switchport mode and allowed VLAN settings). The key troubleshooting point is to ensure that other interface parameters such as speed, duplex, and VLAN settings match across the member ports.
You are connected to SW1. An EtherChannel between SW1 and SW2 using LACP must be established on interfaces GigabitEthernet0/1 and GigabitEthernet0/2. Currently, the channel is not forming. Inspect the provided configuration and output, then apply the necessary commands on SW1 to resolve the issue and bring up the Port-Channel interface.
Explanation: The EtherChannel failed because the two member interfaces on SW1 have mismatched speed (Gi0/1: 1000 Mbps, Gi0/2: 100 Mbps) and duplex (Gi0/1: full, Gi0/2: half), and their native VLANs differ (Gi0/1: VLAN 1, Gi0/2: VLAN 10). LACP requires all bundled ports to have identical speed, duplex, and VLAN configuration. To fix, on SW1 configure both interfaces with consistent settings: set speed 1000, duplex full, and switchport access vlan 1 (or a common trunk native VLAN). Also ensure both sides use the same LACP mode (both active or active/passive); here SW2's Gi0/2 is passive, which is acceptable with SW1's active, so the primary issue is the mismatched physical and VLAN parameters. After correction, the channel will form.
Two switches are connected with EtherChannel using LACP. One side is configured with mode active and the other side with mode passive. What happens?
Explanation: LACP forms an EtherChannel when at least one side actively negotiates. Active plus passive is a valid combination, so the bundle comes up if the physical settings match.
You are connected to SW1. Two switches, SW1 and SW2, are connected via four GigabitEthernet links. Configure LACP EtherChannel between them using interfaces GigabitEthernet0/1 through GigabitEthernet0/4 on SW1. Set the channel-group mode to active on SW1. The port-channel interface must be configured as a trunk, allowing VLANs 10, 20, 30. However, the EtherChannel is not forming. The current configuration is shown below. Identify and fix the issue, then verify the EtherChannel is operational.
Explanation: The EtherChannel is not forming because the Port-channel1 interface is configured as a Layer 3 interface (no switchport, IP address), while the member interfaces are Layer 2 switchports (switchport mode trunk). This mismatch prevents the channel from bundling. To fix this, configure Port-channel1 as a Layer 2 trunk interface with the same allowed VLANs. The solution: remove the no switchport command and the IP address, then apply switchport mode trunk and switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20,30. After correction, the ports should bundle and the show etherchannel summary will show the ports as bundled (P) and the port-channel as Layer 2 (S).
Drag and drop the following steps into the correct order to configure an LACP EtherChannel on two Cisco switches using active mode.
Explanation: To configure an LACP EtherChannel in active mode, you must first enter interface configuration mode on the physical interfaces (e.g., using interface range). Next, assign those interfaces to a channel group using the channel-group command with the mode active keyword; this enables LACP negotiation and ensures the switch actively attempts to form a bundle. After the member ports are configured, you can optionally set parameters on the Port-Channel interface (such as switchport mode trunk). Finally, verify the EtherChannel is operational with show etherchannel summary. Using mode passive, on, or desirable would not enable LACP active negotiation or would use a different protocol (PAgP), which does not meet the requirement.
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Practice all EtherChannel and LACP ScenariosEtherChannel bundles multiple physical links into a single logical port-channel. The CCNA tests LACP vs PAgP vs static EtherChannel, the mode combinations that form a channel, and common configuration errors. These appear as configuration tasks and troubleshooting scenarios. These appear throughout the 200-301 and require you to apply your knowledge, not just recall facts.
Cisco doesn't publish an exact breakdown, but scenario-based questions (especially exhibit and command-output formats) make up a significant portion of the 200-301. Practicing each scenario type ensures you're ready for any format.
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