Figure 17: Switches Connected to Form a Stack
Using the SummitStack feature—part of the Switch Engine Edge license—a stack can combine switches
from different series, provided that every switch in the stack:
•
Runs in the same partition (primary or secondary).
•
Runs the same version of Switch Engine.
•
Includes support for stacking.
See
Combine Switches from Different Series
on page 47 for information about which switch series can
be combined to form a stack.
The following sections introduce you to the basic principles of stacking and provide recommendations
for creating stacks.
More information to answer your questions about stacking and help you plan your configuration is
available on the
Extreme Networks GTAC Knowledge Base
Build Basic Stacks
A stack can be created in either of two ways:
•
In
native stacking
, switches are connected using either designated Ethernet data ports or dedicated
stacking connectors.
•
In
alternate stacking
, switches are connected using 10-Gbps Ethernet data ports that have been
configured for stacking. These ports are located either on the switch itself or on option cards
installed on either the front or the rear of the switch.
When planning and building your stack, be sure to follow port compatibility and cabling
recommendations as described in this chapter.
Slot Numbers in Stacks
A switch stack can be thought of as a virtual chassis. Each switch (node) operates as if it were
occupying a slot in a chassis and is controlled by the primary. The high-speed stacking links function like
the backplane links of a chassis.
Build Basic Stacks
Build Stacks
34
ExtremeSwitching 5320 Series Hardware Installation Guide
