Extreme Networks ExtremeSwitching X435 Series Hardware Installation Manual page 183

Building Stacks
A stack is the collection of all switches, or nodes, that are cabled together to form one virtual switch
using the ExtremeXOS SummitStack feature.
The maximum cable length supported between switches depends on the types of switches in your
stack, the installed option cards, and the configured stacking ports. For more information, see
to Create Your Stack
A stack topology is the set of contiguous nodes that are powered up and communicating with each
other. In the example shown, Switch 8 is not part of the stack topology because it is not powered up.
An active topology is the set of contiguous nodes that are active. An active node is powered up, is
configured for stack operation, and is communicating with the other active nodes.
Switch 5 in the example has failed, stacking is disabled on Switches 6 and 7, and Switch 8 has no power.
As a result, the active topology includes Switches 1 through 4 only.
For more information about SummitStack terminology, see
Ring Topology: Recommended for Stacking
SummitStack nodes should be connected to each other in a ring topology. In a ring topology, one link is
used to connect to a node and the other link is used to connect to another node. The result forms a
physical ring connection. This topology is highly recommended for normal operation.
Figure 153
Figure 153: Graphical Representation of a Ring Topology
Figure 154
connected to the switch above it and the switch below it. To complete the ring, a longer cable connects
Switch 1 with Switch 8.
on page 192.
represents a maximal ring topology of eight active nodes.
shows what the same ring topology would look in actual practice. Each switch in the rack is
SummitStack Terms
ExtremeSwitching Hardware Installation Guide
SummitStack Topologies
Planning
on page 189.
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