Switch Stacking
Switch stacking is connecting multiple physical switches to work as one logical unit. It simplifies management, improves redundancy, and increases bandwidth.
Key Benefits:
Simplified Management: Manage multiple switches as one.
Scalability: Easily expand the network.
Redundancy: If one switch fails, others take over.
Increased Bandwidth: Shares bandwidth across switches.
2. Components Needed
Stacking Cables: Connect switches together.
Stacking Modules: Some switches require special modules.
Stacking Switches: Switches that support stacking (e.g., Cisco StackWise).
3. Physical Setup
Place the switches and ensure stable placement.
Connect stacking cables between switches.
Power on the switches.
Check cable connections.
4. Configuration
*Switch 1 Configuration (Master Switch)*:
Set priority to 15:
switch 1 priority 15
*Switch 2 Configuration (Backup Switch)*:
Set priority to 10:
switch 2 priority 10
5. Switch Communication
Switches communicate through stacking cables.
Priority determines which switch becomes the Master (higher priority) and which one is the Backup (lower priority).
6. Stacking Protocol
The Master Switch controls the stack and propagates configurations. The Backup Switch follows the Master’s configuration.
7. Troubleshooting
Check Physical Connections: Ensure stacking cables are secure.
Verify Switch Roles: The Master should have higher priority.
Check Stack Status:
show switch
Monitor Logs:
show logging
8. Best Practices
Use correct cables and modules.
Set priority correctly for the Master switch.
Ensure all switches have the same firmware version.
Check connections regularly.
9. Common Commands
Check Stack Status:
show switch
Set Switch Priority:
switch [switch-number] priority [value]
Save Configuration:
write memory
10. Conclusion
Switch stacking simplifies management, boosts scalability, and improves redundancy. Ensure correct physical connections, proper switch priority, and regular checks to maintain a healthy stack.
