Extreme Networks ExtremeSwitching 5720 Series Hardware Installation Manual page 52

Connect the Switches to Form the Stack Ring
In general, it is best to connect Stack Port 2 on one switch to Stack Port 1 on the switch with the next
higher slot number. Although you can connect the switches in any order, connecting them as shown in
these examples will produce better predictability and easier software configuration.
All connections between stack ports must be directly between switches. A stacking connection cannot
pass through a third device, for example a Virtual Port Extender or an LRM/MACsec Adapter.
It is essential to create an unbroken data path through all the switches in the stack.
Examples of Valid Stacking Configurations
The examples in the following sections show various physical stacking arrangements: all switches in a
single rack, switches in two adjacent racks, and switches at the tops of several racks in a row.
Example: Basic Stack with Four Switches
This example shows a stack of four switches in a single rack.
The slot numbers presume a console connection to the switch at the top of the physical stack.
Figure 23 shows cable connections for a 4-node stack using SummitStack 40G cables to connect
switches with integrated SummitStack ports.
Figure 23: SummitStack Cable Connections Using Four Switches with Integrated SummitStack Ports
Table 17 lists the recommended order for connecting the stacking ports in this example.
Table 17: Basic Stack with Four Switches: Connections
Slot 1
Slot 2
Slot 3
Slot 4
Example: Basic Stack with Eight Switches
Figure 24 shows cable connections for an 8-node stack using SummitStack 40G cables to connect
switches with integrated SummitStack ports.
52 ExtremeSwitching 5720 Series Hardware Installation Guide
Connect this slot and port . . .
Stack Port 2
Stack Port 2
Stack Port 2
Stack Port 2
Slot 1
Slot 2
Slot 3
Slot 4
. . . To this slot and port
Slot 2 Stack Port 1
Slot 3 Stack Port 1
Slot 4 Stack Port 1
Slot 1 Stack Port 1
Build Stacks