Solved: Design Question: 2 6509's Collapsed Core/Distribution

dgj1 · ‎08-20-2008

Is it better to have routed interfaces between the two cores (Running EIGRP) or a port channel with No Passive Interface VLAN?

Edison Ortiz · ‎08-20-2008

Deanna,

The answer is not which is better but first we need to understand the requirements. If you have the server(s) connected directly to these switches and they are dual-homed, then you need to run Layer2 between these switches.

If you don't have the need to share a Layer2 vlan between the switches, then go routed inter-switch links.

Just remember the requirements, you need to treat each switch like a router. For instance, you need to create Vlans on each switch and the IP range must not overlap.

HTH,

__

Edison.

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Edison Ortiz · ‎08-20-2008

Deanna,

Next generation data centers are being built with the Core running routed interfaces to the distribution switches and layer2 between the access switches and distribution switches if you want server farm redundancy.

Again, these are just guidelines and every network is treated differently depending on the customer requirements.

HTH,

__

Edison.

dgj1 · ‎08-20-2008

Edison,

Thank you for your response. The 6509 is both the Core/Distribution - So the question is which is better for the connection between the two 6509's? Unfortunately, this is a two tier model not the standard 3 tier. All Access Switches and Servers terminate on the 6509's - with lots of cross campus vlans.

Edison Ortiz · ‎08-20-2008

Deanna,

The answer is not which is better but first we need to understand the requirements. If you have the server(s) connected directly to these switches and they are dual-homed, then you need to run Layer2 between these switches.

If you don't have the need to share a Layer2 vlan between the switches, then go routed inter-switch links.

Just remember the requirements, you need to treat each switch like a router. For instance, you need to create Vlans on each switch and the IP range must not overlap.

HTH,

__

Edison.

dgj1 · ‎08-20-2008

Thank you!