Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
What are the implementation restrictions for EtherChannel?
All member ports must match in type, speed, duplex, and VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) configuration, with a maximum of 8 ports per channel.
Restrictions:
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Interface types | Cannot mix Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet in one EtherChannel |
| Max ports | Up to 8 compatibly-configured Ethernet ports per EtherChannel |
| Max bandwidth | Up to 800 Mbps (Fast) or 8 Gbps (Gigabit) full-duplex |
| Max channels | Cisco Catalyst 2960 supports up to 6 EtherChannels |
| Configuration consistency | Both sides must match: trunk/access mode, native VLAN, allowed VLANs, speed, duplex |
| Port channel interface | Configuration applied to the port channel affects all member ports |
Important: The configuration must be consistent on both devices. If one side is configured as a trunk, the other side must also be a trunk with the same native VLAN.
Go deeper:
EtherChannel Tutorial (9tut) — identical speed/duplex/STP/VLAN, max 8 ports, and that channels won't form with dynamic VLANs or port security.