What is Switch Stacking?
The process of combining multiple physical switches into one logical switch for better redundancy and management.
This technique enhances link redundancy and simplifies management.
What does Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) ensure in a network?
A loop-free topology by blocking redundant paths.
STP is crucial for preventing network loops.
Define Multi-Chassis EtherChannel (MEC).
A method for creating a single EtherChannel link among multiple switches, increasing bandwidth usage effectively.
MEC facilitates higher data throughput.
What is the purpose of Virtual Switching System (VSS)?
Allows two physical switches to operate as one logical switch through a Virtual Switch Link.
VSS is a Cisco architecture that enhances redundancy.
What does StackWise technology do?
Allows multiple switches to be interconnected, forming a single logical unit within a confined proximity.
This technology simplifies management and enhances redundancy.
What is the advantage of StackWise Virtual?
Enables two separate switches to function as a single entity while supporting longer distance connections.
This is an evolution of VSS for newer models.
List the benefits of using switch stacking.
- Increased link usage
- Enhanced redundancy
- Simplified management
These benefits lead to improved network efficiency.
True or false: Switch stacking can lead to management complexity and inefficient link usage.
FALSE
Switch stacking combines physical switches, enhancing redundancy and management.
What does MEC allow in terms of link aggregation?
Aggregation of links across multiple switches without being limited to two.
This facilitates higher data throughput.
What is the interface numbering scheme used in stacked switches?
Switch/slot/interface
This scheme is crucial for accurate configurations in stacked environments.
What is the primary limitation of VSS?
VSS can only stack two switches due to its design.
This limits its scalability compared to other technologies.
What is the main purpose of switch stacking?
To enable several physical switches to operate collaboratively as one logical switch.
This enhances link redundancy and management efficiency.
Explain the difference between MEC and traditional EtherChannel.
MEC allows aggregation of links among multiple physical switches, while traditional EtherChannel is limited to two switches.
MEC increases bandwidth usage effectively.
What is the visual impact of stacking on network management?
Lowers the logical switch count from fourteen to five, emphasizing central management control.
This reduces complexity without compromising operational integrity.
What does Switch Stacking allow us to do?
Combine multiple physical switches into one logical switch
This provides benefits for link usage, redundancy, and ease of management.
What is a benefit of Switch Stacking regarding link failures?
A failure on one link won’t take the network down
This enhances network reliability.
What type of EtherChannels can ASW1 and ASW2 form with DSW Stack?
Multi-chassis EtherChannels (MEC)
STP is still used as a fail-safe, but there are no loops so all links can remain enabled.
What is the purpose of EtherChannel in Switch Stacking?
Combine multiple physical links into a single logical link
This helps avoid interfaces being disabled by STP.
What is a potential issue when using EtherChannel with DSW1 and DSW2?
ASW1 can’t form an EtherChannel to DSW1/DSW2, and neither can ASW2
This is due to their separate physical connections.
What technology do Cisco Nexus switches use to create a Port Channel across separate switches?
VPC (Virtual Port Channel)
Nexus switches are not relevant for CCNP Enterprise.
What is the advantage of using Multi-chassis EtherChannel (MEC)?
Allows all links to be active
This increases bandwidth between devices.
What is another name for Multi-chassis EtherChannel?
Multi-chassis Link Aggregation Group (MLAG or MOLAC)
This term is used interchangeably with MEC.
What is a management benefit of Switch Stacking?
Simplifies the management of switches
All switches in a stack are managed as one.
What is the configuration type for Switch Stacking?
Management Plane = centralized, Control Plane = centralized, Data Plane = distributed
This structure enhances operational efficiency.
