1-2
Figure 1-1 A cluster implementation
HGMP V2 has the following advantages:
z It eases the configuration and management of multiple switches: You just need to configure a
public IP address for the management device instead of for all the devices in the cluster; and then
you can configure and manage all the member devices through the management device without
the need to log onto them one by one.
z It provides the topology discovery and display function, which assists in monitoring and maintaining
the network.
z It allows you to configure and upgrade multiple switches at the same time.
z It enables you to manage your remotely devices conveniently regardless of network topology and
physical distance.
z It saves IP address resource.
Roles in a Cluster
The switches in a cluster play different roles according to their functions and status. You can specify the
role a switch plays. A switch in a cluster can also switch to other roles under specific conditions.
As mentioned above, the three cluster roles are management device, member device, and candidate
device.
