Chapter 2: Virtual Chassis Stacking

VCStack Introduction

Features of VCStacking

Virtual Chassis Stacking (VCStack™) is the name given to two or more separate Allied Telesis switches that are configured to operate as a single logical switch. The VCStack operates as a single device and is not perceived by end users, or the traffic itself, to be any more than a single network node. From a configuration and management point of view, it is as though the switches are one device with a seamless transition from the ports of one stack member to the ports of the next.

Each component switch in a VCStack is called a stack member. The VCStack also contains one stack master, which is the switch that manages the stack. To function as a VCStack the component switches are connected using high-speed stacking links.

When configuring a VCStack, there are no limitations on how the ports on one stack member can interact with the ports of another stack member. VLANs, port aggregations, port mirroring, and port ranges in the configuration can all span multiple stack members. The stack member ports truly operate as though they all belong to one virtual switch. The same applies with Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching (both unicast and multicast).

A VCStack may also include a resiliency link, which is an extra, out-of-band, data link between stack members. In the event of loss of communication across the stacking connection, the stack members can determine the status of other members via communication on the resiliency link. This assists the stack members in deciding the correct course of action when communication on the stack is lost.

For more information about Virtual Chassis Stacking (VCStack™) see the Stacking Introduction and Stacking Commands chapters in the AlliedWare Plus Operating System Software Reference from www.alliedtelesis.com.

Creating a VCStack greatly eases network management, because you can configure all the stacked devices via a single IP address. Creating a VCStack will often eliminate your need to configure protocols such as VRRP and Spanning Tree. VCStack also enables you to create highly resilient networks. This resiliency can be applied in several ways.

Within the stack itself, switch interconnection is via two links. The second link is able to provide an alternative data path, so the stack continues to function if a single link fails. User ports can also be made extremely resilient by utilizing link aggregation. Aggregated links can span ports, modules, and even switches within the stack. Creating aggregated links that span multiple switches within a stack creates a resilient configuration. Communication will still exist even if a switch and its aggregated ports fail.

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Allied Telesis X610-24TS/X, X610-48TS-POE+, X610-48TS/X, X610-24TS-POE+ manual VCStack Introduction, Features of VCStacking
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X610-48TS/X-POE+, X610-48TS, X610-24TS/X, X610-24TS/X-POE+, X610-24SPS/X specifications

Allied Telesis has made a significant mark in the networking hardware industry with its impressive lineup of switching solutions. Among these, the X610 series stands out, offering a range of models including the X610-48TS, X610-24TS/X-POE+, X610-24TS/X, X610-48TS-POE+, and X610-24TS-POE+. These switches are designed for robust performance, scalability, and energy efficiency, catering to the needs of businesses and organizations of various sizes.

The X610-48TS model features 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing high-density connectivity options that are essential for modern network architectures. Complementing this, the X610-24TS models, which come with 24 ports, are ideal for smaller deployments while still delivering significant capacity and performance. The X610-24TS/X-POE+ variant enhances this capability further by incorporating Power over Ethernet, enabling the switch to deliver both data and power over the same cable. This feature simplifies installations of IP-based devices such as cameras, phones, and wireless access points.

All models in the X610 series support advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, enabling efficient network management and control. With support for VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol, and link aggregation, these switches facilitate better traffic management and redundancy, crucial for maintaining high availability in enterprise environments. Additionally, the ability to implement Quality of Service (QoS) ensures that critical applications receive the bandwidth necessary for optimum performance.

Energy efficiency is a hallmark of Allied Telesis products, and the X610 series is no exception. The switches incorporate technologies like Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), which helps reduce power consumption during periods of low network activity, thus lowering operational costs while supporting eco-friendly initiatives.

Security features are also robust, with mechanisms such as access control lists (ACLs), port security, and built-in DHCP snooping ensuring that the network remains secure against unauthorized access and threats. The switches are designed with a user-friendly interface for easy configuration and management, including support for SNMP and a web-based management interface.

In conclusion, Allied Telesis' X610 series, with its various models, offers an impressive blend of performance, scalability, and energy efficiency. These switches are well-suited for a wide variety of applications, making them an ideal choice for organizations looking to upgrade or establish a reliable networking infrastructure. Their advanced features, coupled with a focus on security and management, provide organizations with the tools necessary to handle current and future networking demands.
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