GEC*/LA/802.3ad: Static

Gigabit EtherChannel/Link Aggregation teams increase throughput by:

Adapter configuration. By adding members to a team, you can increase throughput. Teams can consist of up to eight adapters. Each server can operate with up to four teams.
Traffic analysis. The software continuously analyzes transmission loads on each team member and then balances the loads across the adapters as needed. The switch load balances receive traffic.

In addition, GEC teams provide fault tolerance. When an adapter fails in the team, a secondary adapter takes over.

Link Aggregation teams are compatible with the following:

Adapter speed	All adapters must operate at the same speed
Network configuration	All adapters must run at 1000MBs All adapters must be connected to the same switch Must be used with a switch capable of handling Link Aggregation: Cisco GEC capable switches using the PAgP protocol Intel® Express switches capable of Link Aggregation Other switches capable of static 802.3ad
Protocols	All

See also:

About Teaming