> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.zayo.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Create an ELAN Connection

ELAN (Ethernet LAN) services provide multi-point Layer 2 connectivity, allowing you to connect multiple endpoints (ports) in a single network segment.

Unlike E-Line connections which connect exactly two endpoints, ELAN enables any-to-any communication between all connected sites.

## Prerequisites

Before creating an ELAN connection, ensure you have:

* Three or more provisioned ports in DynamicLink (one for each endpoint you want to connect)
* Sufficient available bandwidth on all ports
* An understanding of which VLANs are available on each port
* A clear network design for your multi-point topology

## Create an ELAN connection

Navigate to **Build Your Network > Ports**. Click **Add a Connection** in the upper right or click **Add connection** next to the port you are using.

Complete the following fields:

**"A" Port**

Select **Customer Port** and then complete the following fields:

| Field    | Description                                                                                       |
| -------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Port** | Select your source port.                                                                          |
| **VLAN** | Enter an available VLAN. This VLAN will be used across all endpoints in the ELAN.                 |
| **BW**   | Select your desired bandwidth. This bandwidth will be allocated for this connection on each port. |

**"Z" Port**

Select **Customer Port** and then complete the fields as described above.

To continue adding ports in your ELAN connection, click **Add port with ELAN** at the bottom.

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/insidepacket/camTikjFRnQXXgTw/images/add-elan.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=camTikjFRnQXXgTw&q=85&s=2bba44cc9d30f02a58fcb7223e1876e4" alt="Screenshot" width="1730" height="590" data-path="images/add-elan.png" />

## Best practices

When creating E-Line connections, consider the following:

* **Naming Convention**: Use clear, descriptive names that include location identifiers (e.g., "NYC-DC1-to-CHI-DC2")
* **Bandwidth**: Size your bandwidth based on expected traffic patterns and peak usage
* **Redundancy**: For critical connections, consider creating redundant E-Line services on separate ports for high availability