Switch Stack Software Compatibility Recommendations; Incompatible Software And Stack Member Image Upgrades; Switch Stack Configuration Files - NETGEAR 7000 Series Administration Manual

NETGEAR 7000 Series Managed Switch Administration Guide Version 7.2

Switch Stack Software Compatibility Recommendations

All stack members must run the same software version to ensure compatibility between stack
members. The software versions on all stack members, including the stack master, must be the
same. This helps ensure full compatibility in the stack protocol version among the stack members.
If a stack member is running a software version that is not the same as the stack master, then the
stack member is not allowed to join the stack. Use the show switch command to list the stack
members and software versions. See "Code Mismatch".

Incompatible Software and Stack Member Image Upgrades

You can upgrade a switch that has an incompatible software image by using the archive
download-sw xmodem | ymodem | zmodem | tftp://ip/filepath/filename command (this is in the
stacking configuration mode). It copies the software image from an existing stack member to the
one with incompatible software. That switch automatically reloads and joins the stack as a fully
functioning member.

Switch Stack Configuration Files

The configuration files record settings for all global and interface specific settings that define the
operation of the stack and individual members. Once a save config command is issued, all stack
members store a copy of the configuration settings. If a stack master becomes unavailable, any
stack member assuming the role of stack master will operate from the saved configuration files.
When a new, out-of-box switch joins a switch stack, it uses the system-level settings of that switch
stack. However, if you want it to store this system level configuration, you must issue a save
config command.
You back up and restore the stack configuration in the same way as you would for standalone
switch configuration by using the copy command.
20-8 Managing Switch Stacks
v1.0, May 2008