Time to read: 3 minutes 46 seconds | Published: March 18, 2025
Stackable switch What is a stackable switch?
A stackable switch is a network switch that can be physically and logically connected with other switches to function as a single unit. This allows network operators to manage multiple switches as a single device, increasing the scale of their network while simplifying configuration, management, and troubleshooting.
Stackable switches are ideal for enterprise and campus networks that require flexibility, ease of growth, and high reliability. They combine the scalability of modular systems with the simplicity and affordability of fixed-configuration switches—making them a smart investment for modern IT infrastructure.
How does a stackable switch work?
A stackable switch connects to one or more compatible switches using a physical link to form a single logical unit.
- Front-plane stacking uses an uplink port (usually on the front panel) to connect switches together with a standard Ethernet cable. No specialized stacking modules or cables are required for front-plane stacking.
- Back-plane stacking uses a dedicated stacking port (usually on the back panel) to connect switches together, often requiring a proprietary stacking module or stacking cable.
Once the physical link is formed, the switches in a stack will elect a single primary switch member (called a conductor) to manage the data and control plane for all stack members. Other members of the stack will synchronize with the primary switch to maintain a copy of its configurations. A standby member may be elected to assume the primary switch role to prevent disruption in the data forwarding plane in the event of a failure within the stack.
What are the benefits of a stackable switch?
Enterprises with plans for growth need networks that are scalable, reliable, and easy to manage. Stackable switches offer the following benefits:
- Simplified management—All switches in a stack are managed as a single logical switch with a one interface. This vastly simplifies configuration, management, and troubleshooting across large-scale networks.
- Fast Scalability—Stackable switches make it easy to connect more network devices, expanding port capacity and density without needing to redesign the network.
- High availability—Stackable switches make a network more resilient, improving uptime. If one switch in a stack fails, others continue to operate, rapidly electing a new primary switch when needed to help prevent service disruption.
- Improved performance—High-speed interconnects and intelligent inter-stack routing can accelerate network traffic and reduce congestion due to bottlenecks.
- Cost-effective—Stackable switches offer enterprise-grade functionality and high availability, without the additional cost of a modular chassis-based system.
What are the best practices for stackable switches?
To get the most out of stackable switches:
- Plan for scale and consider future needs for growth when selecting switch models and the number of switches in your stack.
- Design your stack with redundant links such as in a ring topology to protect against single points of failure and stack splits.
- Use vendor-approved interconnects like transceivers, stacking cables, and stacking modules for optimal performance, stability, and compatibility.
- Run the same software release across the stack to prevent compatibility issues. Vendors with in-service software upgrade (ISSU) processes can help ensure uptime and prevent service disruption.
- Monitor stack health using a vendor provided management and observability tools, or API based integration with 3rd party tools.
Stackable switch frequently asked questions
Can I stack switches from different vendors?
No, stacking only works with compatible models from the same vendor. Many vendors use specialized stacking technologies, with some needing propriety accessories to interconnect switches in a stack.
How many switches can you stack?
You can typically stack between 2 to 12 switches together as one logical unit depending on the switch model.
What happens if one switch in a stack fails?
If designed with redundancy, the rest of the stack continues to operate. Traffic reroutes automatically in supported topologies.
How do I manage a stack of switches?
A stack of switches is typically managed through a single interface such as a web-based GUI, command-line interface (CLI), or network management software.
Do stackable switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
Yes, many stackable switches support PoE, which allows them to provide power to connected devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras over the network cables.
What is the difference between stackable switch and a standalone switch?
A stackable switch can join with others to act as one, while a standalone switch works independently and must be managed as a separate device.
What is the difference between a stackable switch and a chassis-based switch?
A stackable switch allows you to connect multiple individual switches to form a single logical unit, while a chassis-based switch uses a single physical chassis that carries multiple slots for switch modules (often called line cards). Chassis-based switches tend to offer higher port density, resiliency, and more advanced features at an additional cost.
What are the HPE stackable switch solutions?
HPE offers a range of stackable switch solutions designed to meet the needs of various network environments, from small businesses to large enterprises. These switches are part of the HPE Aruba Networking and FlexNetwork product lines and provide scalability, high performance, and simplified management.
Below are some of HPE's stackable switch solutions:
- HPE Aruba Networking CX 6200 Series.
- HPE Aruba Networking CX 6300 Series.
- HPE FlexNetwork 5140 EI Switch Series.
- HPE FlexNetwork 5140 Hi Switch Series.
- HPE FlexNetwork 5520 HI Switch Series.
