Setting up an IRF fabric
You can use HPE IRF technology to connect and virtualize the switches into a large virtual switch called an "IRF fabric" for
flattened network topology, and high availability, scalability, and manageability.
To set up IRF links between the switches, use SFP+ ports, 1/10-GE Ethernet ports, or QSFP+ ports.
Figure 28: IRF fabric setup flowchart
Procedure
1. Plan IRF fabric setup.
Plan the installation site and IRF fabric setup parameters. (See
Planning IRF fabric setup on page 36).
2. Install IRF member switches. (See Installing the switch in a 19-inch rack on page 12.)
3. Connect ground wires and power cords. (See Grounding the switch on page 22 and Connecting the power cord on page
31.)
4. Power on the switches.
5. Configure basic IRF settings. (See HPE 5920 & 5900 Switch Series IRF Configuration Guide.)
6. Connect the physical IRF ports on switches.
• Use SFP+ or QSFP+ transceiver modules and fibers for long-distance connection.
• Use SFP+ or QSFP+ network cables for short-distance connection.
All switches except the master switch automatically reboot, and the IRF fabric is established.
Planning IRF fabric setup
This section describes what an IRF fabric setup plan must cover.
Procedure
1. Planning IRF fabric size and the installation site on page 37.
2. Identifying the master switch and planning IRF member IDs on page 37.
3. Planning IRF topology and connections on page 37.
36 Setting up an IRF fabric
