Allied Telesis AT-S63 - Manual (Page 90)

Chapter 4: Enhanced Stacking
90 Section I: Basic Operations
Enhanced Stacking Overview
Having to manage a large number of network devices typically involves
starting a separate management session on each device. This usually
means having to end one management session in order to start a new
session on another unit.
The enhanced stacking feature can simplify this task because it allows you
to easily transition among the different AT-9400 Series switches in your
network from just one management session. This reduces the need of
having to end a management session when you need to manage another
switch.
It should be noted that the individual switches of an enhanced stack
function autonomously. They do not form what is commonly referred to as
a “virtual stack,” where the switches act as a logical unit. Rather, each
switch in an enhanced stack functions independently of the others.
Note
Starting with AT-S63 version 2.0.0, several significant changes have
been made to the implementation of the enhanced stacking feature.
Allied Telesyn recommends reviewing the information in this section
before using this feature, even if you are familiar with it from earlier
versions of the AT-S63 software or from other Allied Telesyn
Ethernet switches that support this feature.
Master and Slave
Switches
An enhanced stack must have at least one switch designated as the
master switch of the stack. This switch functions as your access point to
the switches in the stack. Starting a local or remote management session
on a master switch allows you to easily transition to the other switches in
the stack through the management software without having to end your
management session on the master switch.
You designate a switch as a master switch by setting its stacking status.
For instructions, refer to “Setting a Switch’s Enhanced Stacking Status” on
page 95.
The other switches in the stack are known as slave switches. They can be
managed through the master switch or directly, such as from a local
management session.
An enhanced stack can have more than one master switch. Multiple
master switches can lessen the impact on your network management
should you need to remove a master switch from the network, such as for
maintenance purposes.