Replacing a faulty switch from a stack with a brand new blank one

[DGFtw]

Hi,

I'm new to Cisco switches - but somewhat familiar with Alcatel switches.

We have a 2 switch stack of identical C2960X switches. One of the switches died and was sent away under warranty, we have been given a new, but completely blank replacement.

I understand I will first need to ensure the firmware is matched on the two switches.

My question is, how do I set the second one up to match the current master switch? I have a backup of the running config of the master switch, but I don't think I should put this straight onto the new switch, it would have a different IP for a start. I (think i) understand that once connected, the second switch should be replicating from the first one. So, how far do I go with setting the blank one up before I just plug it in and let it replicate?

I am expecting to at-least go through the initial setup.

Also, should I name it, and give it the same IP address of the old switch that was removed?

Thank-you in anticipation,

DG

[balaji.bandi]

Personally I will do basic setup - make necessary IOS and config and join the Master switch ( if your master switch in production) and do not like any downtime.

Auto-upgrade includes an auto-copy process and an auto-extract process.

• Auto-copy automatically copies the software image running on any stack member to the new switch to automatically upgrade it. Auto-copy occurs if auto-upgrade is enabled, if there is enough flash memory in the new switch, and if the software image running on the switch stack is suitable for the new switch.

  Note	A switch in VM mode might not run all released software. For example, new switch hardware is not recognized in earlier versions of software.

here is some reference :

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst2960x/software/15-0_2_EX/stack_manager/configuration_guide/b_stck_152ex_2960-x_cg/b_stck_152ex_2960-x_cg_chapter_010.html#con_1178943