Compared to the modular switch option, stackable switches provide a less expensive option (especially for SMB use cases), but with similar scalability and usually with better flexibility. Talking about performance, stacking switches doesn't not necessary means increase the performance.
Why would you stack switches?
Benefits of the Switch Stacking It reduces the management overhead. By reducing the required number of switches, it also reduces the cost of the network. It allows us to add or remove switches at any time without disrupting the running network or affecting its performance.
What is the use of the stacking feature?
The Switch Stacking is a feature that allows us to configure multiple Cisco switches in a way that they appear as a single switch and act cooperatively. For example, if you have five individual Cisco switches, the Switch Stacking allows you to use all of them as a single large switch.
Can you stack switches on top of each other?
Generally, there are two ways to stack switches together: through stackwise port or via stacking/uplink port. The typical method for switch stacking is to use stacking cable via stackwise port.
How can I tell if a switch is stacked?
A switch stack is identified in the network by its bridge ID and, if the switch stack is operating as a Layer 3 device, its router MAC address. The bridge ID and router MAC address are determined by the MAC address of the stack master.
What makes a switch stackable?
A stackable switch is a network switch that is fully functional operating standalone but which can also be set up to operate together with one or more other network switches, with this group of switches showing the characteristics of a single switch but having the port capacity of the sum of the combined switches.
How do you make a switch stack?
Steps to configure the switches in the stack: Attach the stacking cable to the rest of the members. Power up the members one at a time and based on the order of your choice. Example, if switch 2 is the 2nd switch, then power this switch after the master has been powered up and stacking cable has been applied.
How many switches can be stacked in Cisco?
Cisco StackWise technology unites up to nine switches. The master switch manages each of these devices. Any member within the stacked unit can be the master switch.
How many switches can be connected together?
Daisy-chaining switches together is generally considered safe, but not recommended if at all possible. Doing so comes with some risks that can cause chaos on a network. If you absolutely have to daisy-chain switches together, the general rule of thumb is to not connect more than three switches with each other.
Can you stack switches?
Generally, there are two ways to stack switches together: through stackwise port or via stacking/uplink port. The typical method for switch stacking is to use stacking cable via stackwise port. Only approved cables can be used to connect the 3750 stack switches with other similar switches.