Overview - Allied Telesis SwitchBladex8112 Installation Manual

Chapter 15: VCStack Plus Overview

Overview

292
The VCStack Plus feature is an optional feature for the AT-SBx8112
Chassis. The feature is used to connect two chassis together so that the
devices function as a single networking unit. This is referred to as a virtual
switch. The benefits of the feature are mentioned here:
 Simplifies management - The two switches of the stack are
managed as a single unit, rather than individually. Local and
remote management sessions automatically provide management
access to both chassis.

Reduces IP addresses - The stack requires only one IP address
for remote management access, thereby reducing the number of
IP addresses in the network.
 Adds feature flexibility and resiliency - The stack adds flexibility to
some features. For instance, a port aggregator can consist of ports
from both switches in the stack. This increases the resiliency of the
aggregator because it can continue to function if one of the
switches stops functioning, though at a reduced bandwidth.
 Reduces protocol requirements - Creating a stack might eliminate
the need for some protocols in your network, such as the Virtual
Router Redundancy Protocol and Spanning Tree Protocol.
Section III: Building a Stack with VCStack Plus