Cisco Catalyst 2960-X | C2960X-HYBRID-STK= Catalyst 2960x FlexStack Extended Hybrid

Cisco FlexStack-Extended

Cisco FlexStack-Extended enables a long-distance out-of-the wiring-closet stack option (floor to floor). It allows back-panel stacking of up to eight Cisco Catalyst 2960-X or 2960-XR Series Switches. FlexStack-Extended can be added to a Cisco Catalyst 2960-X or 2960-XR Series Switch with a back-panel stacking slot. Table 8 lists the switch combinations supported with FlexStack-Extended, and Table 9 lists the scalability and performance with the various software images. FlexStack-Extended is supported in Cisco IOS 15.2(6)E or later and is available in two module configurations: a fiber module and a hybrid module.

The hybrid module has a copper port that enables short-reach connectivity across a local stack of switches (Figure 6). It provides investment protection and compatibility with FlexStack-Plus through the copper port, while the SFP+ port supports distance stacking. The fiber module has two SFP+ ports supporting long-reach out-of-the wiring-closet stacking (Figure 7).

Please refer to Table 18 for information about transceiver and cable compatibility with FlexStack-Extended.

Cisco FlexStack-Plus, FlexStack-Extended, and Cisco IOS Software offer true stacking, with all switches in a stack acting as a single switch unit. FlexStack-Plus and FlexStack-Extended provide a unified data plane, unified configuration, and single IP address for switch management. The advantages of true stacking include lower total cost of ownership and higher availability through simplified management as well as cross-stack features including EtherChannel, SPAN, and Flex Links.

FlexStack-Extended supported combinations

FlexStack-Extended scalability and performance

Connectors and interfaces