Zyxel Network-Attached Storage NAS - Configuring Link Aggregation / Port Trunking on Zyxel NAS

Zyxel NAS Link Aggregation (LAG), also known as port trunking or bonding, is a network feature that combines multiple network interfaces into a single logical link. This setup enhances network performance by providing greater bandwidth, redundancy, and improved load balancing.

End-of-Life Product Notice: We regret to inform you that the product "Zyxel NAS Devices" has reached the end of its useful life. As a result, technical support for this device may be limited. Please be aware that any manipulation or use of a device that is already end-of-life is entirely at your own risk. You can find a list of obsolete devices, including their retirement and end-of-support dates, at the link below. This page also provides the latest updated version for your device: End of Life

How LAG Works on Zyxel NAS

LAG combines interfaces such as LAN1 and LAN2 into a single logical link, resulting in higher bandwidth and fault tolerance. Both interfaces use the same IP and MAC address. This configuration requires that the connected Ethernet switch also supports and is correctly configured for link aggregation.

Configuring LAG on Zyxel NAS

Accessing the NAS Configuration:

• Navigate to Control Panel > Network > TCP/IP > Network Interface > Create.
• Select the option for load balancing or port trunking.

Port Trunking Settings:

• Ensure LAN1 and LAN2 are connected to the same Ethernet switch.
• Configure the switch for LAG with the appropriate settings to match those on the NAS.

Load Balancing Options:

Various load-balancing algorithms can be chosen, such as:

• Round-Robin: Distributes packets sequentially across all links.
• Active Backup: One interface is active while the other is a backup.
• XOR (exclusive OR): Balances traffic based on source and destination MAC or IP addresses.

IP Address Configuration:

• For consistent IP addressing via DHCP, LACP has limitations. It's recommended to configure a static IP for the NAS to ensure it always receives the same IP address.

Common Issues and Solutions

• Single Flow Speed Limitation:
  • Each individual traffic flow is limited to the speed of a single physical port, typically 1 Gbps. The combined bandwidth is realized through multiple simultaneous flows.
• Switch Compatibility:
  • Ensure the connected switch supports and is correctly configured for LAG. Some Zyxel models like the XGS1210-12 do not support dynamic LACP (IEEE 802.3ad) and may require static LAG settings.
• Firmware and Model Considerations:
  • For advanced features like LACP, consider using higher-end models such as the XGS1930 or GS1900 series, which offer better support for dynamic link aggregation.

Example Configuration Scenario

Connecting the NAS:

• Connect LAN1 and LAN2 from the NAS to two ports on a switch.

Configuring the Switch:

• On the switch, set up a static LAG group for the two ports.

NAS Network Settings:

• On the NAS, navigate to Control Panel > Network > TCP/IP > Network Interface > Create.
• Select Port Trunking and choose the desired load balancing algorithm.
• Assign a static IP address to the NAS for consistent network access.

Just a heads-up:Zyxel NAS devices have reached the end of their support period. We understand this might be inconvenient, so to help you out, please visit our forum or explore the NAS section in our knowledge base for all the details. You can also find a list of outdated devices and their support timelines at the link below.

• End of Life (EOL/EoL) / End of Support (EOS/EoS)
• Community Forum Personal Cloud Storage

Thanks so much for your understanding and patience!