Quick Answer

The correct order for Layer 3 EtherChannel setup steps is to first create the port-channel interface, then assign an IP address to it, add member ports with the no switchport command, configure the channel-group mode, and finally verify routing and port-channel status. This sequence is correct because a routed port-channel operates at Layer 3, meaning the logical interface must exist and have an IP before physical ports can be bound to it as routed ports; the no switchport command on each member port ensures they operate as Layer 3 interfaces rather than switchports, and the channel-group command ties them into the logical bundle. On the ENCOR 350-401 exam, this drag-and-drop task tests your understanding of the strict procedural order required for routed EtherChannels, and a common trap is forgetting to apply no switchport to the member ports before adding them to the channel-group, which would leave them as Layer 2 interfaces and break the configuration. A helpful memory tip is to think “Create, IP, no switchport, bundle, verify” — or simply “CINBV” — to lock in the correct sequence from first to last.