Avaya ERS 8800 series Configuration Manual page 149

virtual link. In an Ethernet Routing Switch 8800/8600, you can automatically create virtual links
or you can manually configure a virtual link.
Virtual linking is similar to backup redundancy. With virtual linking configured, the switch
creates a virtual link for vital traffic paths in your OSPF configuration if traffic is interrupted,
such as when an interface cable providing connection to the backbone (either directly or
indirectly) is disconnected from the switch. Automatic virtual linking ensures that a link is
created by using another switch.
If automatic virtual linking requires more resources than you want to expend, create manual
virtual links. Manual virtual links conserve resources and provide specific control over virtual
link placement in your OSPF configuration.
OSPF behavior is modified according to OSPF standards so that OSPF routes cannot be
learned through an ABR unless it connects to the backbone or through a virtual link.
Procedure steps
1. In the navigation tree, open the following folders: Configuration, IPv6.
2. Double-click OSPF.
3. Click the Virtual If tab.
4. Click Insert.
5. In the AreaId box, specify the area ID for the transit area.
6. In the Neighbor box, specify the neighbor ID.
7. Click Insert.
8. To verify that the virtual link is active, refresh the Virtual If tab and check the State
Variable definitions
Use the data in the following table to configure the virtual link.
Variable
AreaId
Neighbor
Configuration — IPv6 Routing
The transit area is the common area between two ABRs.
The neighbor ID is the IP router ID of the ABR through which the other ABR must
route traffic destined for the backbone.
column.
If the state is point-to-point, the virtual link is active. If the state is down, the virtual
link is configured incorrectly.
A read-only field indicating the transit area ID that the virtual link
traverses.
A read-only field indicating the router ID of the virtual neighbor.
Value
Creating a virtual link
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