Dell PowerConnect 7024, Manual

Page: 135 / 1234

Managing a Switch Stack
135
8
Managing a Switch Stack
This chapter describes how to configure and manage a stack of switches.
The topics covered in this chapter include:
• Stacking Overview
• Default Stacking Values
• Managing and Monitoring the Stack (Web)
• Managing the Stack (CLI)
• Stacking and NSF Usage Scenarios
Stacking Overview
PowerConnect 7000 Series switches include a stacking feature that allows up
to 12 switches to operate as a single unit. A single switch in the stack manages
all the units in the stack, and you manage the stack by using a single IP
address. The IP address of the stack does not change, even if the stack master
changes.
A stack is created by daisy-chaining stacking links on adjacent units. A stack
of units is manageable as a single entity when the units are connected
together. If a unit cannot detect a stacking partner on a port enabled for
stacking, the unit automatically operates as a standalone unit. If a stacking
partner is detected, the switch always operates in stacking mode. One unit in
the stack is designated as the Master unit. The Master manages all the units
in the stack. A second switch is designated as the Standby unit, which
becomes the Master if the Master unit is unavailable. You can manually
configure which unit is selected as the standby, or the system can select the
standby automatically.
NOTE:
Each PowerConnect 7000 Series switch in the stack must have the optional
Stacking module installed in one of the two expansion slots on the back panel.
Figure 3-13 in Expansion Slots for Plug-in Modules shows the stacking module.