Understanding Virtual Switching Systems - Cisco Catalyst 4500 series Administration Manual

Understanding Virtual Switching Systems

Understanding Virtual Switching Systems
These sections describe a VSS:
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VSS Overview
Network operators increase network reliability by configuring switches and by provisioning links to the
redundant pairs.
and redundant links can add complexity to network design and operation. Virtual switching simplifies
the network by reducing the number of network elements and hiding the complexity of managing
redundant switches and links.
A VSS combines a pair of Catalyst 4500 or 4500-X series switches into a single network element. The
VSS manages the redundant links, which externally act as a single port channel.
The VSS simplifies network configuration and operation by reducing the number of Layer 3 routing
neighbors and by providing a loop-free Layer 2 topology.
Figure 5-1
Access
Distribution
Core
The following sections present an overview of the VSS. These topics are covered in detail in subsequent
chapters:
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Software Configuration Guide—Release IOS XE 3.6.0E and IOS 15.2(2)SG
5-2
VSS Overview, page 5-2
VSS Redundancy, page 5-11
Multichassis EtherChannels, page 5-14
Packet Handling, page 5-16
System Monitoring, page 5-20
Dual-Active Detection, page 5-23
Configuring a Recovery IP Address, page 5-25
VSS Initialization, page 5-26
Figure 5-1 shows a typical switch network configuration. Redundant network elements
Typical Switch Network Design
Key Concepts, page 5-3
VSS Functionality, page 5-5
Chapter 5 Configuring Virtual Switching Systems
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