Adding a Catalyst 9300 switch to an existing stack without a downtime

[AditiyaPandya76]

We currently have a stack of 2 switches. I would like to add a third switch to this stack. Is it possible to connect this switch without causing a downtime. I think the answer is yes, but looking for confirmation. The process will be as follows.

Disconnect the stack cable from stack port 2 on switch 1, connect this to stack port 1 on the new switch 3. Connect a new stack cable on stack port 2 of switch number 3 and connect the other end to the open stack port 2 on switch 1. Then power switch 3 up and set the priority.

Thank you in advance.

[pman]

try this link:

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst9300/software/release/16-5/configuration_guide/stck_mgr_ha/b_165_stck_mgr_ha_9300_cg.pdf 

[Seb Rupik]

Hi there,

Before breaking the stack-ring, make sure you have issued the switch 3 provision command on the existing stack. Also on the new switch, ensure it is running the same IOS-XE version and that you have also set its switch number to '3': switch 1 renumber 3

After this you should be safe to connect it the the existing stack-ring.

NB:, before breaking the stack-ring, ensure it is operating in a Full configuration: show switch stack-ring speed

cheers,

Seb.

[balaji.bandi]

adding to other comments.

1. make sure you offload the config out of the box safe

2. Offline build the new switch  with Correct IOS XE to match with exiting Stack

3. change the Switch numnber and priority.

4. save the config and turn off the device.

5. Prepare the racking and mounting the kit in

6. configure on the Live stack switch provisioning.

7. connect the Stack cable (hope below URL give the information)

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/switches/catalyst-9300-series-switches/white-paper-c11-741468.html

8. Power on the new Switch part of stack.

Monitor  the Logs - show switch give you information

Hope this help you.

[Leo Laohoo]

Yes and no.  

Yes, it can be done but it will depend entirely on the IOS-XE version of the current stack and the exact model of the 9300.   Read the Release Notes to determine what exact IOS-XE version each model of switch will support.  

9300 and 9300L cannot be stacked together.  

[AditiyaPandya76]

As long as you have the correct, matching code on your switches, it should work, but there is still a risk that something will go wrong, and you need to be prepared that you could bring down the whole stack. olehana vietnam 

[balaji.bandi]

yes and no, depends expereince, so always suggests to do the changes in maintenance window, as suggested take the config out of box to save time in case failures.