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bperry88

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Network Clients Lose Connectivity With Parallel Backbone

Hi, I work for a small company current with 1 router, 1 wireless access point, and 4 switches on a gigabit Ethernet network.

I recently learned about the performance increases associated with a parallel backbone.  so, I ran a crossover cable between the switch downstairs and the main switch upstairs.  In both instances when I connected the cable, all the clients lost both LAN and WAN connectivity.

Why do the network clients lose connectivity when I attempt to implement a parallel backbone (run multiple crossover cables) between two network devices (switches and routers)?

This is my first question on Experts-Exchange, so if more information is necessary, please let me know.

Thanks,
Brian
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bperry88

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I did some research, and found that I'm probably creating a loop between the devices.  I also found that I could use Link Aggregation between switches to increase throughput.

My question now becomes 1.) Am I right on what I've found, and 2.) Can I setup Link Aggregation on unmanaged switches because all of my switches are currently unmanaged (and the Dell 2716 is the only one that can be in managed mode).

Thanks again,
Brian
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Daniel
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Thanks for confirming what I found.