Managing a Switch Stack 135
8
Managing a Switch Stack
This chapter describes how to configure and manage a stack of switches.
The topics covered in this chapter include:
• Stacking Overview
• Default Stacking Values
• Managing and Monitoring the Stack (Web)
• Managing the Stack (CLI)
• Stacking and NSF Usage Scenarios
Stacking Overview
PowerConnect 7000 Series switches include a stacking feature that allows up 
to 12 switches to operate as a single unit. A single switch in the stack manages 
all the units in the stack, and you manage the stack by using a single IP 
address. The IP address of the stack does not change, even if the stack master 
changes.
A stack is created by daisy-chaining stacking links on adjacent units. A stack 
of units is manageable as a single entity when the units are connected 
together. If a unit cannot detect a stacking partner on a port enabled for 
stacking, the unit automatically operates as a standalone unit. If a stacking 
partner is detected, the switch always operates in stacking mode. One unit in 
the stack is designated as the Master unit. The Master manages all the units 
in the stack. A second switch is designated as the Standby unit, which 
becomes the Master if the Master unit is unavailable. You can manually 
configure which unit is selected as the standby, or the system can select the 
standby automatically. 
NOTE: Each PowerConnect 7000 Series switch in the stack must have the optional 
Stacking module installed in one of the two expansion slots on the back panel. 
Figure 3-13 in Expansion Slots for Plug-in Modules shows the stacking module.