Technical information

38 EqualLogic Configuration Guide | Version 15.2 | August 2014
Figure 4 Switch Interconnects
8.2.1.1 Stacking switches
Stacking switches provides a simple method for creating a switch interconnection within a Layer 2
network infrastructure. Stacking is typically accomplished using a vendor proprietary, high-bandwidth,
low-latency interconnect that allows two or more switches to be connected in such a way that each
switch becomes part of a larger, virtual switch. Most stackable switches will provide a set of dedicated
stacking ports or Installation of an optional stacking module may be required. Some switches also provide
virtual stacking modes using standard Ethernet ports.
8.2.1.2 Non-stacking switches
Non-stacking switches do not have a dedicated switch interconnect. In this case to create an interconnect
between the switches you must utilize one or more ports on each switch to create a LAG. This type of
switch interconnection should use link aggregation functions (if provided by the switch) to aggregate
multiple Ethernet ports into a single, logical high bandwidth interconnect. There are several options
depending on the vendor of the switch. Table 14 describes the most common options.
Note: For best performance and reliability, we recommend that all interconnection paths between non-
stacking switches (LAGs) use a dynamic link aggregation protocol such as LACP.