LLDP Overview

The Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is defined by IEEE standard 802.1ab and provides a standard method for discovering physical network devices and their capabilities within a given network management domain.

LLDP-enabled network devices include repeaters, bridges, access points, routers, and wireless stations, and LLDP enables these devices to do the following:

Advertise device information and capabilities to other devices in the management domain.
Receive and store device information received from other network devices in the management domain.

LLDP-discovered information can be used to do the following:

Discover information from all LLDP compatible devices in a multivendor environment.
Trigger universal port profiles that can configure a switch port for a remote device (see Universal Port).
Supply identity information that can be used for authentication and identity management (see LLDP).
Provide device information to SNMP compatible Network Management Systems, which can present the information in inventory reports and topology maps.

The following sections provide additional information on LLDP support in the ExtremeXOS software.