8.2. Understanding the Default Behavior of Master and Slave Interfaces

When controlling teamed port interfaces using the NetworkManager daemon, and especially when fault finding, keep the following in mind:
  1. Starting the master interface does not automatically start the port interfaces.
  2. Starting a port interface always starts the master interface.
  3. Stopping the master interface also stops the port interfaces.
  4. A master without ports can start static IP connections.
  5. A master without ports waits for ports when starting DHCP connections.
  6. A master with a DHCP connection waiting for ports completes when a port with a carrier is added.
  7. A master with a DHCP connection waiting for ports continues waiting when a port without a carrier is added.

Warning

The use of direct cable connections without network switches is not supported for teaming. The failover mechanisms described here will not work as expected without the presence of network switches. See the Red Hat Knowledgebase article Why is bonding not supported with direct connection using crossover cables? for more information.