HP MSR Series Configuration Manual page 7

A single availability technology cannot solve all problems. You should use a combination of availability
technologies, chosen on the basis of detailed analysis of network environments and user requirements,
to enhance network availability. For example, access-layer devices should be connected to
distribution-layer devices over redundant links, and core-layer devices should be fully meshed. Network
availability should be considered during the planning stage.
Table 3 Protection switchover technologies
Technology Introduction
Interface backup allows interfaces on one device to back up one
another. The main interface transmits services, and the backup
Interface
interfaces are in the backup state. When the main interface fails or
backup
the link fails, a backup interface is brought up to transmit services,
increasing network reliability.
Ethernet link aggregation, or link aggregation, aggregates multiple
physical Ethernet links into one logical link to increase link
Ethernet link
bandwidth beyond the limits of any one single link. This logical link
aggregation
is an aggregate link. It allows for link redundancy because the
member physical links can dynamically back up one another.
As a Layer 2 management protocol, MSTP eliminates Layer 2 loops
MSTP by selectively blocking redundant links in a network, and in the
meantime, allows for link redundancy.
GR ensures the continuity of packet forwarding when a protocol,
such as BGP, IS-IS, OSPF, LDP, or RSVP-TE, restarts, or during an
GR
active/standby switchover process. It needs other devices to
implement routing information backup and recovery.
VRRP is an error-tolerant protocol, which provides highly reliable
VRRP default links on multicast and broadcast LANs such as Ethernet,
avoiding network interruption due to failure of a single link.
3
Reference
"Configuring
interface backup"
Layer 2—LAN
Switching
Configuration Guide
Layer 2—LAN
Switching
Configuration Guide
Related chapters in
Layer 3—IP Routing
Configuration Guide
and MPLS
Configuration Guide
"Configuring VRRP"