Chapter 2: Virtual Chassis Stacking

Stack Formation

The Role of the Stack Master

A VCStack always contains a master plus a number of stack members. To be part of a stack, a switch must connect to other potential stack members via dedicated stacking ports on the VCStack stacking module located in the rear of the switch.

Once the switches have been physically connected to form a stack, powering all the members on automatically sets off a number of processes that enable the stack members to detect the presence of the other stack members and form themselves into a VCStack.

In addition to being a member of its VCStack, the stack master manages functions such as software version control and distribution, routing processing, and network management.

Selecting the Stack Master

The stack members are able to automatically select which switch will become the stack master. This selection is based on two components:

1.The stack member’s priority setting.

2.The stack member’s MAC address.

The master is the switch with the lowest ‘priority setting’, or if no ‘priority settings’ are configured, the switch with the lowest MAC address will become the stack master. When a stack member is initially booted, its priority value defaults to 128. Therefore if all switches retain their defaults, then the stack master will be determined by MAC address comparison. The stack also assigns a Stack Member-ID number to each member. This number provides a unique reference number for switches within the stack; it plays no part in selecting the stack master. The Stack Member-ID is the entity used as the first digit of the three component port identifier numbers. For example, port number 2.0.14 has the Stack Member-ID of 2.

Note

Modify your configuration scripts to match any changes you have made to the Stack Member-ID assignments.

64

Page 64
Image 64
Allied Telesis X610-48TS/X, X610-48TS-POE+, X610-24TS-POE+, X610-24SPS/X manual Stack Formation, Role of the Stack Master

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.