How to connect two Huawei core switches

Two Huawei core switches can be connected using either stacking (for unified management and redundancy) or Eth-Trunk link aggregation (for high bandwidth and reliability). Method 1: Using Switch StackingStacking allows multiple Huawei switches to operate as a single logical device, simplifying management and providing redundancy. Key steps include: Verify Compatibility: Ensure both switches support stacking (e.g., S5700, S6700, CE8800 series) and have the required stacking modules or service ports.

Use Certified Stack Cables: Connect the switches using dedicated stacking cables (often QSFP-40G-Stack or similar) in a ring topology for redundancy.

Configure Stack I

Ds and Priorities: Assign unique member IDs and set priorities before connecting the stack cables to determine the master switch. Enable Stacking on Switches: Enter system view and configure the physical stack ports, then add them to logical stack ports. Synchronize Firmware: Ensure all switches run the same VRP version and enable auto-upgrade to synchronize configurations.

Verify Stack Status: Use commands like display stack to confirm all members are recognized and operational. Benefits: Single management IP, synchronized configuration, redundant backplane bandwidth, and automatic failover if the master switch fails. Method 2: Using Eth-Trunk (Link Aggregation)Eth-Trunk aggregates multiple physical links into a single logical link, increasing bandwidth and reliability.

Select Ports: Choose multiple uplink ports on each switch to form the Eth-Trunk. Determine Mode: LACP Mode: Recommended if both switches support LACP for dynamic link aggregation. Manual Load Balancing: Use if one switch does not support LACP.

Configure Eth-

Trunk: Create the Eth-Trunk interface on each switch. Add the selected physical ports to the Eth-Trunk.

Assign VLA

Ns and configure other relevant parameters. Verify Connectivity: Use commands like display eth-trunk to check link status and load balancing. Benefits: High bandwidth, redundancy, and compatibility with switches that are not stackable.

Best Practices

Prefer stacking for switches of the same model to simplify management and maximize redundancy. Use ring topology for stacking to avoid single points of failure.

For Eth-

Trunk, ensure consistent configuration on both ends to prevent link flapping. Always check firmware versions and stacking licenses before deployment. Document port assignments and VLAN configurations to maintain clarity in large networks.

By following these methods, you can connect two Huawei core switches efficiently, either as a unified stack or via high-bandwidth aggregated links.