Dell Networking N4032 Configuration Manual page 29

Note: Hot insertion of units into the stack is not supported. Do not connect a new member to the stack
while the new unit is powered up.
Follow the steps in the following section to properly add the stacking cables and complete the process.
Ring vs. daisy-chain topology
2.3.2.1
If the original stack is cabled in a
stacking port on the first switch, the entire stack continues to work correctly through the process of
adding a new switch regardless of where the new switch is cabled within the stack. This is due to the
built-in resiliency of the ring topology that allows all switches to remain in communication with each
other in the event a single link or switch is lost or removed.
When adding a switch to a
middle. Adding to the middle requires breaking the daisy-chained stack, which causes the stack to split,
creating a new Master on the group of switches that lost contact with the original Master. This would
result in two stacks. Adding a new switch to the either end of the daisy-chain allows all other members to
stay in constant communication and in turn allow the stack to stay intact during the process.
daisy-chain
On a
1. Configure the existing stack with new stack ports to be used to connect to the new switch.
2. Cable the new switch into the existing stack.
3. Power up the new switch. The switch will be added to the stack.
ring topology
On a
4. Plug new cables into some (usually half) of the stack ports configured on the new switch to be
added. Half of the ports will be used unless both 10G and 40G ports are to be used in stacking this
switch.
5. Unplug the stacking cables from any existing member going to another existing member in the
stack. Only unplug the cables from one end, leaving them plugged into the other member.
Note: Only half of the stack cables in this member will be unplugged. The cables going in the other
direction to a third existing member will not be removed.
6. Plug the other end of the new cables of the switch being added into the stack ports that were
unplugged in step 2.
7. Plug the remaining cable ends (removed in step 2) into the remaining stack ports configured on
the new switch unit.
8. Power up the new switch. The switch will be added to the stack.
Allow a few minutes for the new switch to boot up completely.
29 Stacking Dell Networking Switches: N4032, N4032F, N4064, N4064F
ring topology,
daisy-chain topology
stack:
stack:
where a stacking port on the last switch is connected to a
stack, add it to one end of the stack and not in the