FS S5800-48T4S: How MLAG Be Used in Diverse Applications

MLAG (Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation Group) enhances network redundancy and scalability by enabling seamless failover and optimizing bandwidth utilization. It allows multiple switches to function as a unified entity, reducing downtime risks and ensuring uninterrupted network operation. The FS S5800-48T4S is a versatile layer 3 switch with MLAG support, ideal for the access layer in campus networks. With a non-blocking switching capacity of 176Gbps and a forwarding rate of 132 Mpps, it handles large data volumes efficiently. This article explores the MLAG feature's applications in various scenarios.

Key Hardware Specifications of S5800-48T4S

The S5800-48T4S 1G switch boasts 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 ports and 10G SFP+ uplink ports, providing ample connectivity options for a wide range of network devices. The 1G switch is housed in a compact 1U form factor, making it ideal for high-density deployments where space efficiency is crucial. Its hardware highlights include:

• 48 x 10/100/1000BASE-T Ports: These ports offer extensive connectivity to various network devices, including workstations, servers, and other switches.

• 4 x 10G SFP+ Ports: These ports provide high-speed uplinks and ensure seamless integration with core switches and aggregation Layers.

• Compact 1U Design: The slim 1U form factor allows for easy installation in racks, optimizing space usage in data centers and enterprise environments.

• Robust Build Quality: The 1G switch's durable construction ensures long-term reliability and performance in demanding networking scenarios.

  

How Does MLAG Work Between S5800-48T4S Layer 3 Switches?

MLAG allows multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit, ensuring high availability, load balancing, and redundancy. In the following illustration, a peer-link between two switches forms a unified MLAG domain, enabling uninterrupted service upgrades and fault isolation. This setup minimizes network impact, making the S5800-48T4S ideal for enterprises seeking robust, scalable, and resilient network performance. Here's how it works:

In the left side of the diagram, the network switches are connected to the broader network, with one switch operating as the master and the other serving as the backup. The two S5800-48T4S switches are interconnected through a MLAG peer-link, facilitating synchronization and redundancy.

To establish an MLAG peer-link with CLI commands, configure the switches as follows:

For more details, please refer to the S5800 Series Switches Configuration Guide.

In the right side of the diagram, if the master switch undergoes an upgrade or experiences a fault, the backup switch seamlessly assumes all traffic responsibilities. The MLAG peer-link ensures continuous data synchronization and role transition, maintaining an uninterrupted network connection for the servers through the backup switch.

Example of S5800-48T4S Used in Small and Medium-sized Data Centers with MLAG

Here is a diagram that shows how S5800-48T4S is used in small and medium-sized data centers. By incorporating MLAG, the entire network solution not only improves redundancy and bandwidth efficiency but also ensures easier scalability and management, making it an ideal choice for small and medium-sized data centers.

In the core layer, two interconnected S5850-48S8C switches manage extensive data traffic. MLAG between these core switches ensures continuous data flow even if one switch fails, providing high availability and seamless failover capabilities. The access layer comprises four S5800-48T4S 1G switches, each equipped with 48 ports, facilitating seamless integration of user devices and connectivity with other switches or servers.

In the access layer, MLAG allows these switches to work together as a single logical unit, enhancing network performance and simplifying management. Some RS5230 rack servers and one SS5800-48T4S 1G switch ensure a highly available, high-performance server network. The SS5800-48T4S 1G switch, with MLAG support, enhances network scalability and flexibility by supporting multiple server connections, showcasing its pivotal role in delivering stable and reliable network services across the data center.

Application Scenarios of S5800-48T4S with MLAG

The S5800-48T4S, with MLAG support, excels in various network environments by enhancing redundancy, scalability, and performance. In enterprise networks and data centers, MLAG allows the S5800-48T4S to operate as a reliable backbone switch, ensuring seamless failover and optimal bandwidth utilization. In metro networks, MLAG ensures continuous operation and resilience by enabling multiple switches to function as a single logical unit. For hyper-converged infrastructure, MLAG combined with VXLAN support facilitates the integration of virtual machines and cloud applications, optimizing resource utilization.

Conclusion

MLAG enhances network redundancy and scalability by enabling seamless failover and optimizing bandwidth utilization. This allows multiple switches to function as a unified entity, reducing downtime risks and ensuring uninterrupted network operation. The FS S5800-48T4S is a versatile layer 3 switch with MLAG support, ideal for campus networks. With a non-blocking switching capacity of 176Gbps and a forwarding rate of 132 Mpps, it handles large data volumes efficiently. Overall, the S5800-48T4S with MLAG provides high availability, scalability, and enhanced performance across various network environments.