A method, apparatus, and computer instructions for negotiating a protocol for a conversation in which data packets are transmitted. Responsive to establishment of a link aggregation with an endpoint for the conversation, an algorithm for processing the data packets in the conversation is selected to form a preferred algorithm. A request is sent to the endpoint. This request indicates the preferred algorithm for processing the data packets in the conversation. A reply to the request is received from the endpoint. A determination is made as to whether a convergence has occurred. The data packets in the conversation are processed using the preferred algorithm in response to a determination that the convergence has occurred.