Adding a switch to existing 2960s stack with different version

[Vishnu Reddy]

Hello Guys,

New to stacking concept.

Can we have 2 different versions/revisions running on the stack.

1 switch  15.0(2)SE6

2 switch  15.0(2)SE6

3 switch  15.0(2)SE4 (New switch to added to the existing 2 stack switch)

Since the 3 rd switch has the default configuration as per stacking its going to be reassigning the interfaces to 3/0/1 etc for the thrid switch.

Do I need to worry about the configuration for existing stack switches if I plug in the new switch? Will it erase the existing configuration from switch 1 and switch 2?

As I know if you convert the daisy chained switches to stacking you lose the existing configs for switches 2 and 3.

I have this task to complete this weekend. Any confirmation on this one would really appreciate.

Thanks in advance!

[Reza Sharifi]

Hi,

Adding a new member to a stack will not erase the config of the stack.  That said, make a good backup of your config just in case.  Also make sure to upgrade the new switch to 15.0(2)SE6

before adding it to the stack.  Also see link for instruction on how to add a new switch as member:

http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst2960/software/release/12-2_53_se/configuration/guide/2960scg/swstack.html#wp1177470

HTH

[Vishnu Reddy]

Thank you...!

Appreciate your prompt response. I am going to give it a try tommorrow's maintanance.

[Vishnu Reddy]

I was able to upgrade to 15.0(2)SE6 as suggested by you using xmodem.

I have one more question.

Does the entire stack needs to be rebooted which adding a new switch to the stack. ?

I would need to connect the stack cables when the new switch is powered off. Do I need to shutdown the entire stack for this operation?

Thanks in advance.

[Reza Sharifi · Accepted solution]

Does the entire stack needs to be rebooted which adding a new switch to the stack. ?

no

I would need to connect the stack cables when the new switch is powered off. Do I need to shutdown the entire stack for this operation?

no, the stack will stay operational.  You just add a new switch to the stack.

HTH

[Vishnu Reddy]

Thanks for the Immediate response.

I am assuming that I can take off the flex stack cables while the stack is operational and plug it back to the new device.

[Reza Sharifi]

Yes, Just make sure when you connect the new switch to the existing stack using the staking cable, The new switch is turned OFF.

Good Luck