Catalyst 9300 StackWise cabling configuration

[Madura Malwatte]

Just want to confirm if any issues with this type of stackwise cabling configuration? It was mentioned in another community discussion here

The main advantage I see here compared to the recommended way we all find in the hardware installation guide is that the default 50cm data stacking cable can be used, instead of having to purchase a longer cable to connect the last switch in the stack to the first switch. Can someone confirm this configuration is okay?

[Leo Laohoo]

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@Madura Malwatte wrote:

Can someone confirm this configuration is okay?

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Yes and no. 

Yes, the configuration "might" work. 

No, there is no redundancy.  If one of those cables break or one of the units fails, the rest of the stack is split brain.  

The Hardware Installation Guide describes exactly the fail-over condition everyone needs to avoid.

[Madura Malwatte]

Thanks for the response. Are you sure? The same arrangement looks like this (easier to visualise), and I can't see how a cable or unit failure will cause a split brain?

[Leo Laohoo]

After reviewing, yes.  There is redundancy and it will work. 

The layout of the cables is rather weird and this caught me out because it is not the "traditional" sense.

[Madura Malwatte]

Thanks. Only found out recently that this cabling method was possible without having to order and pay for additional cables! Need to test and verify its all good.