Tutorials · Switching
How to Stack Switches for Simpler Management and Resilience
Combine several stackable switches into one logical switch: cabling, member priorities, cross-stack link aggregation and safe upgrades.
Before you start
- Stackable switches of the same family (check datasheets)
- Stacking cables or ports as specified
Step by step
Check compatibility
Members must be stack-compatible models with the same firmware version.
Plan the topology
Cable members in a ring (last back to first) so one failed cable does not split the stack.
Set member numbers and priority
Give the intended master the highest priority so it is elected predictably.
switch 1 priority 15 switch 2 priority 14
Power on in order
Boot the intended master first, then the other members, and confirm they join.
show switchUse cross-stack link aggregation
Connect uplinks from different members into one LACP bundle, so losing a member does not cut the uplink.
Upgrade carefully
Upgrade the whole stack in a maintenance window; follow the vendor's stack upgrade procedure.
Commands are generic, industry-standard examples. Exact syntax and menu names vary by model and firmware; check your device's manual on the Documentation page.
Pro tips
- Label members with their stack number.
- Keep a spare member pre-configured with the same firmware.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Stacking or link aggregation?
Stacking makes several switches act as one and is managed as one. LACP bundles links between separate switches. They are often used together.
Keep learning
Related guides
Link aggregation (LACP)
Read more →How to Configure VLANs on a Managed Switch
Separate staff, guests, voice and cameras into their own VLANs: create VLANs, set access and trunk ports, and verify traffic separation.
Read more →How to Set Up Inter-VLAN Routing on a Layer 3 Switch
Route between VLANs at wire speed using switch virtual interfaces (SVIs), a DHCP relay and ACLs that control which networks can talk.
Read more →How to Configure Link Aggregation (LACP) Between Switches
Bundle two or more links into one logical link for more bandwidth and redundancy using IEEE 802.3ad LACP.
Read more →Stuck on a step?
Ask Navijin technical support or an authorised partner for help with your configuration.