Chapter 1: Stack Management; Overview - Cisco 500 series Administration Manual

Stack Management

Overview

Cisco 500 Series Stackable Managed Switch Administration Guide
This section describes how stacks are managed. It covers the following topics:
• Overview
• Types of Units in Stack
• Stack Mode
• Stack Ports
• Stack Topology
• Unit ID Assignment
• Master Selection Process
• Stack Changes and Unit ID Assignment
• Unit Failure in Stack
• Software Auto Synchronization in Stack
• System Mode and Stack Management
Devices can either function on their own, or they can be connected into a stack of
up to four devices (units).
When a unit functions by itself, its stack mode is Standalone. When it functions as
part of a stack, its stack mode is Native Stacking. In Native Stacking mode, all units
in the stack must be of the same type (Sx500 or SG500X). By default, all Sx500
and SG500X devices operate in Native Stacking mode.
The units in a stack are connected through stack ports. These devices are then
collectively managed as a single logical device.
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