In native stacking mode, switches are connected using either designated Ethernet data ports or dedicated stacking connectors.
In alternate stacking mode, switches are connected using an alternate pair of Ethernet data ports that have been configured for stacking. These ports are located either on the switch itself or on option cards installed on either the front or the rear of the switch. Not all switches support alternate stacking mode.
The 5120 Series supports native stacking in Native-V100 stacking mode beginning with Switch Engine 33.3. The 5120-44X-4Y-2C switch supports alternate stacking beginning with Switch Engine 33.4. See Combine Switches from Different Series for more information about cross-stacking 5120 Series switches with other switches.
When planning and building your stack, be sure to follow port compatibility and cabling recommendations as described in this chapter.
