Irf Working Process; Irf Connections - HP 4800G Series Configuration Manual

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Figure 1-1 IRF networking

IRF cable IRF cable

IRF has the following advantages:

Simple management

After an IRF is formed, you can log in to the IRF system by connecting to a port of any IRF member.

When you log in to the IRF, actually you log in to the master device of the IRF. You can manage all IRF

members by configuring the master, for example, allocating IP addresses to the members,

interconnecting the members, and running routing protocols.

Powerful network expansion capability

By adding member devices, you can increase the number of IRF ports, expand network bandwidth, and

improve processing capability of the IRF system.

High reliability

Not only the physical IRF ports of members can be aggregated, but also the physical links between the

IRF system and the upper or lower layer devices can be aggregated, and thus the reliability of the IRF

system is increased through the link backup.

The IRF system comprises multiple member devices: the master runs, manages and maintains the IRF,

whereas the slaves process services as well as functioning as the backups. When the master fails, the

IRF system elects a new master immediately to prevent service interruption and implement 1:N backup.

IRF Working Process

The life cycle of an IRF involves four stages:

Pysical IRF port

To make an IRF operate normally, you need to connect the IRF members physically. Physical ports that

are dedicated to IRF connection on devices are called physical IRF ports. For the Switch 4800G series,

the 10 GE interface modules can be inserted into the expansion module slots on the rear panel of the

Connections,

Election, and

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