Cisco Catalyst 9500 StackWise Virtual Configuration

StackWise Virtual (StackWise-V) is a stacking technology used in Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series switches that allows you to virtualize multiple physical switches into a single logical switch. This provides simplified management and enhanced resiliency. Here is a basic guide on how to configure StackWise Virtual on Cisco Catalyst 9500 switches:

Prerequisites:

1. Ensure Compatible Hardware: StackWise Virtual requires specific hardware support. Ensure that your Cisco Catalyst 9500 switches are equipped with the necessary hardware modules.
2. Update Software: Make sure that your switches are running a compatible version of Cisco IOS XE Software that supports StackWise Virtual.

StackWise Virtual Configuration:

1. Access Global Configuration Mode: Enter global configuration mode on the switch:
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   Switch> enable
Switch# configure terminal

2. Configure Switch IDs: Assign a unique switch ID to each member switch in the stack. The range is 1 to 2.
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   Switch(config)# switch 1
Switch(config-switch)# switch virtual link 1
Switch(config-switch)# switch virtual link 2


   Repeat this step for each switch in the stack.

3. Configure the Virtual MAC Address: Assign a virtual MAC address to the stack. This is the MAC address used for routing protocols and other stack-related activities.
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   Switch(config)# switch virtual mac-address <mac-address>


   Choose a unique MAC address for the stack.

4. Configure the Domain ID: Assign a domain ID to the stack. The domain ID is used to differentiate between different StackWise Virtual domains on the same network.
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   Switch(config)# switch virtual domain <domain-id>


   Choose a unique domain ID for your stack.

5. Save the Configuration: Save the configuration to ensure that it persists after a reboot.
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   Switch(config)# end
Switch# write memory

6. Reload the Switches: Reload the switches to apply the StackWise Virtual configuration.
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   Switch# reload


   Confirm the reload when prompted.

7. Verify StackWise Virtual Configuration: After the switches have reloaded, verify the StackWise Virtual configuration:
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   Switch# show switch virtual


   This command displays information about the StackWise Virtual configuration and the status of each switch in the stack.

Additional Considerations:

• StackWise Virtual supports dual-active detection to prevent split-brain scenarios. Ensure that dual-active detection is configured appropriately.
• StackWise Virtual also supports the use of dual-active interfaces for link redundancy.
• Always refer to the official Cisco documentation for your specific switch model and software version for detailed and accurate information.

Configuring StackWise Virtual is a significant change to the switch configuration, and it’s recommended to perform such configuration during a maintenance window to avoid disruptions to the network.