Use case for dual ethernet ports on freenas mini

[peter_cd.cn]

Hello,

I have a FREENAS-MINI-2.0 with following spec:

CPU: Intel(R) Atom(TM) CPU C2750 @ 2.40GHz
Memory: 32 GB
Disk: 4 WD RED HDD

I see two ethernet port and I think that means I have two NIC. link 0 (igb0) is always down currently disconnected. igb1 is up and connected to my router. As shown in the screenshot.

Why does this NAS comes in with two NIC? What are some good use case for the two ports? I am not sure if one of them is a 10 Gib ports or both are gigabytes ports.

Appreciate any materials for learning or general ideas on how people uses them.

Best,

 

[danb35]

What are some good use case for the two ports?

If you have a managed switch, you can always set them up in a LAGG group for potentially-improved network performance (if you have multiple simultaneous clients).

 

[peter_cd.cn]

Thanks @danb35, does it has to be a managed switch? I have a netgear unmanaged switch NETGEAR ProSafe 24.

I read somewhere that people use 1 port connect directly to a mac? It by passes the router for direct access. I don't know if that benefits me in anyway.

 

[danb35]

Yes, LACP requires a managed switch. I don't see any real benefit of doing a direct connection to a client PC using one of the LAN ports, though that's certainly a possibility.

 

[peter_cd.cn]

Yeah, I am not totally convinced of connecting directly to the NAS. I have just left it unused so far.

 

[ChrisRJ]

Let me put it this way: If you don't really know what to do with the additional port, you are likely ok with how things are right now ;-)

 

[peter_cd.cn]

Let me put it this way: If you don't really know what to do with the additional port, you are likely ok with how things are right now ;-)

You are right. Less tinkering and save some time. I was just wondering incase I am missing something big.