one embodiment relates to a method of providing dual - homing in a layer 2 switch . a determination is made as to whether a link is available to an upstream network on for a currently active port . if the link is unavailable , then the layer 2 switch a ) performs a switchover such that the currently active port becomes a newly passive port , and a currently passive port becomes a newly active port , b ) clears entries in an address table of the layer 2 switch , and c ) spoofs mac addresses out of the newly active link . other embodiments are also disclosed .