Stacking a 9300 switch to another running 9300?

[Mike Dang]

Hello forum,

I ran out of port on the current 9300 and would like to stack another 9300.  Is it possible to stack without taking the operational 9300 down?

Thanks,

MD

[Leonid Voronkin]

Yes

[Leo Laohoo · Accepted solution]

Follow the simple rules: 

1. All stack members need to be loaded with the same firmware; 
2. All stack members must have the same license level (Essentials or Advantage and not both); 
3. Make sure the new switch member is POWERED DOWN FIRST before connecting the stacking cables

[Mike Dang]

Thanks Leo.

The new member is offline right now.  Both switches are running the same firmware.  So, I can stack the new switch to the existing one without shutting down the existing one first?  And no reboot required on existing one after either, right?  I'm asking these questions because we're required to submit outage request.

Thanks,

MD

[Leo Laohoo]

Based on my experience with replacing switch stack members, no outage is required if one follows the basic rule I've replied -- Particularly rule #3.  
Failure to power down the new stack member and the stack will reload when the stacking cable is attached.  Guaranteed.