AX Series
SML Configuration Guide
Application of Large-Scale Fault-Tolerant Network

Edition 2
Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

PrefaceThis document describes how to establish and operate a three-layered, large, fault-tolerant network (FT network)
composed of fault-tolerant switches (FT switches) and SMLs (Split Multi Links) with AX2530S series products toachieve an ALAXALA network that does not stop.
This document offers guidelines for establishing a large-scale system that utilizes the SML functionality of
AX2530S series switches. For details about the basic information and settings for FT switches, see the AX Series
Fault-Tolerant Network Introduction Guide.

Related documents
・・

AX Series Fault-Tolerant Network Introduction Guide
AX series product manuals (http://www.alaxala.com/en/techinfo/manual/index.html)

Notes on using this document
The information in this document is based on the basic operations verified under the environment specified by
ALAXALA Networks Corporation, and does not guarantee the operations in functionality, performance, andreliability under all environment requirements. Please understand that this document is intended to help with system
configuration for our products.
Unless otherwise stated, the OS software version as of the creation of this document is as shown below.
AX6700S: Ver. 11.5
AX2530S: Ver. 3.2.B
AX1240S: Ver. 2.3.A
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

Export restrictions
In the event that any or all ALAXALA products (including technologies, programs and services) described orcontained herein are controlled under any of applicable export control laws and regulations (including the Foreign
Exchange and Foreign Trade Law of Japan and United States export control laws and regulations), such products
shall not be exported without obtaining the required export licenses from the authorities concerned in accordancewith the above laws.

Conventions: The terms "Switch" and "switch"
The term Switch (upper-case "S") is an abbreviation for any or all of the following models:・ AX6700S series switch
・ AX2530S series switch
・ AX1240S series switch
The term switch (lower-case "s") might refer to a Switch, another type of switch from the current vendor, or aswitch from another vendor. The context decides the meaning.

Trademarks
・ The ALAXALA name and logo mark are trademarks or registered trademarks of ALAXALA Networks
Corporation.
・ Ethernet is a trade name of Xerox Corporation in the United States.
・ Other company and product names in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of theirrespective owners.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

2

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

Revision history
Edition
Edition 1
Edition 2

Rev.
-

Date
February 11, 2011
December 1, 2011

Description
First edition
Operating systems were updated to the current
versions..
10G uplink models (AX2530S-24S4X,
AX2530S-24T4X，AX2530S-48T2X) were added
to the product lineup.
Along with the addition of the 10G uplink models,description on peer links/peer link ports in Table
2.1-1was changed.
Along with the addition of the 10G uplink models,configuration examples for the 10G uplink models
were also added.
Along with the addition of the 10G uplink models,description on peer links and tips on configuration
setting were added.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

Applicable sections
Preface
1.4

2.1

3.2 (8)3.3 (2)

3

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

Contents
1. What Is SML (Split Multi Link)? ...............................................................................5
1.1

SML overview .............................................................................................................................. 5

1.2

Background of SML development ............................................................................................... 5

1.3

Features of SML .......................................................................................................................... 6

1.4

Product lineup ............................................................................................................................. 7

2. SML Operations and Supported Functions .............................................................8
2.1

SML components ........................................................................................................................ 8

2.2

Overview of normal operation ..................................................................................................... 9

2.3

Overview of operation during failures ........................................................................................ 11

2.4

Supported functions .................................................................................................................. 13

3. Example of an SML-Enabled FT Network .............................................................15
3.1

Example of an SML-enabled FT network .................................................................................. 15

3.2

Important points for constructing a system ............................................................................... 18

3.3

Important points for setting up a system ................................................................................... 21

3.4

Configuration example .............................................................................................................. 23

4. Operation Management .........................................................................................29
4.1

Operation of SML ...................................................................................................................... 29

4.2

Checking the SML status .......................................................................................................... 30

4.3

Software update procedure ....................................................................................................... 34

4.4

SML switch replacement procedure .......................................................................................... 34

5. Important Notes .....................................................................................................35
Appendix. Configuration Files ......................................................................................37

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

1. What Is SML (Split Multi Link)?
1.1

SML overview

Usually, link aggregation cannot provide line redundancy across two devices. However, pairing two switchesoffering the SML functionality by ALAXALA Networks Corporation makes redundancy over multiple devices
possible.
As shown in Figure 1.1-1, each of the two switches with the SML functionality offers separate but interlinked
link aggregation between the upstream and downstream switches, which implements line redundancy across two
devices.
This configuration provides fast switching and maintains stable communications in case of a failure.
This guide describes the details of the SML functionality.
Upstream switch

Line redundancy provided
by link aggregation across
two devices

CH1
Link
aggregation

SML

Link
aggregation

CH2

CH3

Link
aggregation
Downstream
switchFigure 1.1-1 SML overview

1.2

Background of SML development

An FT network is a simple redundant network containing FT switches (AX6700S, AX6600S, AX6300S) at its
core, which provides link aggregation of communication lines. FT switches combine the functions of two
switches into a single device to achieve high fault tolerance.

FT network overview

Fault-tolerant (FT) switch
Simplifies the network core by combining
the functions of two switches into one
FT switchPrimary Secondary(AX6000S)

Link aggregation
Simplifies line redundancy
by eliminating unstable STP* FT: Fault tolerant

Figure 1.2-1 FT network overview

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
In an FT network, it is assumed that a two-layered configuration is set up because FT networks offer line
redundancy through link aggregation. This makes it difficult to implement FT networks into large-scale systems
with a lot of terminals.
To deal with this issue, a new technology called the SML functionality was developed so that larger systems
can implement FT networks by using link aggregation, as well as allow for distribution switches to be added
while maintaining redundancy.
With SML-enabled AX2530S series switches used as distribution switches, large-sized systems can implementa simple network that does not stop, which embraces the concept of link aggregation networking.

SML
Server switch

To deploy a large-scale
system:FT switch

FT switch

Core switch

SML (Split Multi Link)
SML

SML

SML

Floor
switchSignificantly more terminals

Previously

Two-layered network(FT not available at the distribution level)

Distribution
switchNowThree-layered network supported(SML makes FT available at the distribution level)

Figure 1.2-2 Three-layered FT network

1.3

Features of SML

An SML-enabled FT network provides the following features, which makes the network suitable for alarge-scale redundant system offering high reliability and availability:(1) Providing line redundancy through link aggregation across two devices
Even if a failure occurs on the line connected to either of the switches, data is routed to the path throughthe other switch to continue communication. In addition, providing line redundancy by link aggregation
eliminates the risk of loop failures.

(2) Effective use of the bandwidth by eliminating the need for the backup line
SML does not have the concept of master and backup lines. This allows for effective use of the linkaggregation bandwidth.

(3) Version updating with communication being maintained
While the software is being updated, degenerate operation of link aggregation allows communication tocontinue without stopping services.

(4) Making significantly more terminals available
With SML-enabled AX2530S series switches as distribution switches, a redundant FT network that uses
link aggregation allows many more terminals to be available.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

1.4

Product lineup

The AX2530S series, supporting SML, has lineups of 1G uplink and 10G uplink models, form which you canselect your switch according to the bandwidth you use.
The uplink ports of the 10G uplink models, supporting the optic module SFP+, can be used as SFP/SFP+
shared ports, allowing for smooth transition from 1G Ethernet to high-performance 10G Ethernet. Further, you
can use direct attach cables (SFP+).
AX2530S-24S4X

10G model

AX2530S-24T
AX2530S-24T4X

AX2530S-48T

10G model

AX2530S-48T2X

Figure 1.4-1

10G model

AX2530S series product lineup

Table 1.4-1 Number of ports available in each model
Model
AX2530S-24T
AX2530S-48T
AX2530S-24S4X

UplinkSFP (4 ports)
SFP (4 ports)
SFP/SFP+ shared (4 ports)

Downlink
UTP (24 ports)
UTP (48 ports)
SFP (24 ports)

AX2530S-24T4X

SFP/SFP+ shared (4 ports)

UTP (24 ports)

AX2530S-48T2X

SFP (2 ports)
SFP/SFP+ shared (2 ports)

UTP (48 ports)

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

Remarks

・10G uplink model・Supported from Ver.3.1
・10G uplink model・Supported from Ver.3.2
・10G uplink model・Supported from Ver.3.2

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

2. SML Operations and Supported Functions
2.1

SML components

This section explains the SML components and the SML terminology used in this document. SML is
composed of two switches. The two SML switches are connected by peer links, and the uplink and downlink
ports of the switches are grouped to form link aggregation called SML channel groups.
Each SML group is identified with an SML domain, and the SML switches within an SML domain are
managed by their SML IDs.
SML channel group(SML ChGr)

SML domain: 100
SML switch
AX2530S

Peer links

SML ID: 1

SML switch
AX2530S
SML ID: 2Peer link port

SML channel group port
(SML ChGr port)

SML channel group(SML ChGr)

Figure 2.1-1 SML components

Table 2.1-1 SML terminology
No.
1
2
3
4
5

Term
SML (Split Multi Link)
SML switch
SML ID
SML domain
Peer link, peer link port

6

SML channel group(SML ChGr)
SML channel group port
(SML ChGr port)

7

Description
Functionality for configuring link aggregation across two devices
Switch that makes up an SML configuration (AX2530S)
SML switch ID that identifies an individual SML switch
SML configuration ID specified for each SML configuration
A peer link is a connection that associates two switches to form an SML
configuration.
A peer link port is used to establish a peer link.
The following ports can be used as peer link ports.
- SFP ports (24T, 48T, 48T2X)-SFP/SFP+ shared ports (24S4X, 24T4X, 48T2X)
Port channel interface shared by both SML switches
Physical port that contains a port channel interface shared by both SML switches

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

2.2

Overview of normal operation

SML synchronizes the MAC address table information and the link aggregation information through peer
links.
Synchronization of the MAC address table information reduces unknown addresses and thus suppresses
flooding, which results in prevention of unnecessary packet sending.
Synchronization of the link aggregation information allows communication to continue via a peer link when afailure occurs on all the SML channel group lines of one of the devices.

Terminal B

ChGr 2SML switch Ａ
AX2530S

SML switch Ｂ
AX2530S
Peer links

MAC address table information
MAC-X VLAN a/Port

MAC address table

Synchronization

MAC-X VLAN a/Port

ChGr 1

Link aggregation information

Link aggregation information

Information of ports
comprising LA

Information of ports
comprising LA

Terminal A

Figure 2.2-1 Synchronized information in SML

When SML is working properly, operating SML switches relay packets via the shortest forwarding path.
Communication across SML channel groups does not use the peer links during normal operation.

ChGr 2SML switch Ａ
AX2530S

Packets areforwarded
through theshortest path.

SML switch Ｂ
AX2530S
Peer links

ChGr 1Figure 2.2-2 Basic relay in SML

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
The following sections explain packet relay operation for unicast packets with learned MAC addresses and forunicast, multicast, and broadcast packets with unlearned MAC addresses.

(1) Unicast packets with learned MAC addresses
For unicast packets with learned MAC addresses, frames are forwarded according to the routing
information.
(1) SML Switch A receives a packet from Terminal A.
(2) The switch looks up the MAC address table and finds the information for routing the packet toTerminal B.
(3) The packet is forwarded to Terminal B.
Terminal B

３

ChGr 2

SML Switch Ａ
AX2530S

SML Switch Ｂ
AX2530S
Peer links

２

ChGr 1１
Terminal A

Figure 2.2-3 Unicast packet with a learned MAC address(2) Unicast, multicast, and broadcast packets with unlearned MAC addresses
Unicast, multicast, and broadcast packets with unlearned MAC addresses are forwarded to all the ports.
(1) SML Switch A receives a packet from Terminal A.
(2) The switch floods the packet to all the ports, including the peer links. Terminal B and SML
Switch B receive the packet.
(3) To prevent duplicate packet relay to SML channel groups, SML Switch B does not forward thereceived packet to SML channel groups.
Terminal B

ChGr 2SML switch A ２

SML switch B
AX2530S

AX2530S

３Peer links

２
ChGr 1１

Terminal A

Figure 2.2-4 Unicast, multicast, and broadcast packets with an unlearned MAC address

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

2.3

Overview of operation during failures

This section explains operation when problems occur in various parts of the communication path from
Terminal A through SML Switch A to Terminal B.

(1) Operation during an SML channel group failure
If failures occur in all the links of an SML channel group, the following switchover operation takes
place:(1)
Failures occur in all the links from SML Switch A to the SML channel group.
(2)
SML Switch A detects a link failure.
(3)
The link aggregation information of SML Switch A is looked up, and the route is switched tothe one via the peer link to continue communication.
Later when the SML channel group link recovers from the failure, further communication switches backto the original route.
Terminal B

SML switch A
AX2530S

ChGr 2

１

Failure２

SML switch B
AX2530S

Peer

３
ChGr 1

Terminal A

Figure 2.3-1 SML channel group failure(2) Operation during an SML switch fault
If a fault occurs in an SML switch, the following switchover operation takes place:(1)
A fault occurs in SML Switch A.
(2)
The partner switch detects the link failure.
(3)
Degenerate operation of link aggregation switches the route and allows communication tocontinue.
Later when the SML switch recovers from the fault, further communication is forwarded according to
the link aggregation port allocation of the partner device.
Terminal B

ChGr 2
SML Switch Ａ
AX2530S

１

SML Switch Ｂ
AX2530S
Peer

Fault

３1
ChGr
２
Terminal A

Figure 2.3-2 SML switch fault

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11

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(3) Operation during a peer link failure
When two ports are used to provide redundancy to the peer link, a failure might occur in one of theports or in both peer links. This section explains these two cases.

(a) Peer link failure of one port
If a failure occurs in the peer link connected to one of the two ports, all the communication through
SML channel groups or the peer link continues to function.
Terminal B

ChGr 2
SML Switch Ａ
AX2530S

SML Switch Ｂ
AX2530S

FailurePeer

ChGr 1

Terminal A

Figure 2.3-3 Peer link failure of one port(b) Multiple failures on the peer link
If both peer links stop working due to multiple failures, communication through the peer link might
not work any longer. The operation in this case is shown below.
(1)
Failures occur in both peer links.
(2)
SML Switches A and B detect the peer link failure.
(3)
Communication through the peer link stops.
Communication through SML channel groups continues to function.
Later when the peer link ports recover from the failures, communication through the peer link resumes.
Terminal B

ChGr 2
SML Switch A
AX2530S

SML Switch B
AX2530S

Failure
Peer

2
3

2
1
ChGr 1

Terminal A

Figure 2.3-4 Failure in all the peer links

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

2.4

Supported functions

Though SML can establish link aggregation by combining two SML switches, the operation, configuration,and logging of messages are separate for each switch. For details, see 4.1 Operation of SML.
The tables below describe the availability of other functions and the capacity limit during SML operation.
Basically, the capacity of each device, not the combined capacity of the devices, determines the capacity limits offunctions during SML operation. Exceptions are the capacity limits of link aggregation and the MAC addresstable, which are determined on a per-SML domain basis.
Table 2.4-1 Functions supported by SML
Category

Layer 2

Layer 3(IP communication)

Function

Link aggregation

Spanning Tree
Ring Protocol
Uplink redundancy
DHCP snooping
Storm control

Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
Y

UDLD

Y

L2 loop detection functionality

Y

Filtering, QoSYRemote terminal

Utilities

Operation
management

Additional functions

StaticLACP
Standby link

Availability
during SML
operation

Telnet

Y

FTP

Y

ping

Y

tracert

Y

ARP

Y

NTP

Y

SNMP (MIB/Trap)

Y

Operation message log

Y

CFM

Y

LLDP

Y

Network authentication functionality
Port mirroringN
Y

Dynamic power saving functionality

Y

IGMP/MLD snooping
DHCP server

N
N

Remarks

Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.
Works separately on individual
devices.

Y: Supported; N: Not supported

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

Table 2.4-2 Capacity limit per SML domain
Function
Link aggregation

MAC address table

Capacity limit
Maximum number of channelgroups64

Maximum number of ports(per SML channel group)
Maximum number of entries

32,768

Number of static entries

256

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

8

14

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

3. Example of an SML-Enabled FT Network
This chapter shows an example FT network that utilizes SML and provides important points for constructing
and setting up the network, as well as how to specify the configuration.

3.1

Example of an SML-enabled FT network

Media center

SML

AX1200S

Server switch

AX2500S

SML
AX2500S

AX6700S
Core siwtch

Ａ campus

Ｂ campus
SML
AX2500S
AX1200S

Ｃ campus
SML
AX2500S

Distribution
switchAX1200S

Floor switch

Figure 3.1-1 Example of an SML-enabled FT network
Figure 3.1-1 shows an example of an SML-enabled FT network.
This example considers a redundant campus network composed of three campuses and a media center. The
media center contains core and server switches. The core switch is connected to distribution switches in each
campus.
An FT switch with supreme fault tolerance, an AX6700S series switch, is used as the core switch. For the
distribution switches and for the server switches of the servers, AX2500S series switches that implement SML
are used. An FT network, including servers, that uses link aggregation is set up by using SML.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Figure 3.1-2 shows the logical configuration of the entire system. An AX6708S switch, which is used as thecore switch, is made redundant by installing two control section (BCU) modules and two forwarding section(BSU) modules. One forwarding section module is for active operation, and the other module is for standby
operation. Redundancy is provided to the lines through link aggregation of the network interface section (NIF).
The SML functionality of an AX2530S series switch is enabled for both distribution and server switches
connected to the core switch, and link aggregation is set up for each SML switch pair. The links between theserver switches and the servers are made redundant with the SML functionality and the server NIC teaming
functionality.
Server 1

Server 2

NIC
teaming

NIC
teaming

#1

#1

#2

#2

CH1

CH2

SML: 10
S1: AX2530S

0/1

0/2

0/1

S2: AX2530S

0/2

VLAN 2, 10-11

VLAN 2, 10-11
0/27-28

0/27-28

0/23-24

0/23-24Server switches

CH5
1000BASE-T

BCU1

VLAN 2, 10, 11
C1: AX6708S
ACT BCU(Primary)

BSU1
BSU2
NIF5

1000BASE-SX

2/1-2
NIF2

1/1-2
NIF1

NIF1

SBY

BCU(Secondary)

24

BSU(Primary)ACT

BSU(Secondary)SBY

5/1-2 NIF55/3-4

VLAN 2,101-120

NIF2Core switch

NIF6

6/1-2NIF66/3-4

SML: 300...

VLAN 2,201-220

CH10Management
terminal

BCU2

VLAN 2,301-320

CH20
Distribution switches

SML: 100

SML: 200

D11: AX2530S

0/1

0/25-26

0/25-26
0/27-28

VLAN 2, 101-120
0/2
0/3

D12: AX2530S

D21: AX2530S

0/27-28

0/4

0/1

VLAN 2, 101-120
0/2
0/3

0/4

0/1

0/25-26

0/25-26

0/27-28

0/27-28

VLAN 2, 201-220
0/2
0/3

0/4

0/1

D22: AX2530S
VLAN 2, 201-220
0/2
0/3

0/4

Floor switches

CH1
F11:
AX1240S

0/25

CH4

0/26

VLAN 2,101-120
0/1

0/20

...

...

F14:
AX1240S

0/25

CH1
0/26

VLAN 2,101-120
0/1

F21:
AX1240S

0/20

...

0/25

CH4
0/26

VLAN 2,201-220
0/1

...

F24:
AX1240S

0/20

...

0/25

0/26

VLAN 2,201-220
0/1

0/20

...

Figure 3.1-2 Logical configuration of an SML-enabled FT network

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

Table 3.1-1 List of used devices
Device nameCore switch

AX6708S

ModuleDevice abbr.
name/model

Quantity

Remarks
Redundant
configuration
Redundant
configuration
Redundant
configuration
Redundant
configuration
SML
configuration
SML
configuration

BCU (Control section)

BCU-S1

2

BSU (Forwarding section)

BSU-LA2

NIF (Network interface section)

NK1G-24T

2

NK1G-24S

2Distribution switch

AX2530S--

AX2530S-24T

6

Server switch

AX2530S--

AX2530S-24T

2

Floor switch

AX1240S--

AX1240S-24T

12

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

3.2

Important points for constructing a system
Important points for constructing a system in this example can be summarized as follows:(1) Not using Spanning Tree in SML and an FT network(2) Using link aggregation in static mode(3) Cross-connecting multiple uplinks across NIF modules(4) Providing redundancy to the peer link between SML switches(5) Specifying different SML domains for SML configurations(6) Providing high availability through a combination of SML and the server teaming
functionality(7) Deployment to the system after SML settings are completed(8) Uplink for 10G uplink models

Details are given below.

(1) Not using Spanning Tree in SML and an FT network
In an FT network system with SML functionality support, link aggregation is used to provide redundancy
to the lines. Thus, Spanning Tree is not used.

(2) Using link aggregation in static mode
When an active-standby switchover occurs in the control section (BSU, CSU, or MSU) of the FT switch,communication will sometimes be interrupted for a prolonged period of time because LACP does notsupport active-standby switchovers without communication interruptions.
However, in static mode, active-standby switchovers can be performed without interrupting
communication. For this reason, use static mode for link aggregation.

(3) Cross-connecting multiple uplinks across NIF modules
When multiple uplinks of a single SML switch are used in the configuration, connect each uplink port to adifferent NIF module, as shown in the figure below. This way, even if a fault occurs with an NIF in an
upstream FT switch, communication is not directed to a route that bypasses the peer link, and the SML switch
status is preserved.
AX6700S
When multiple uplinks areused to configure an SML
channel group, connect the
uplinks to different NIF
modules.

NIF1

NIF2

FT switch

1/1

1/2

2/1

2/2

0/1

0/2

0/1

0/2

SML
AX2530S

AX2530S

SML switch

Figure 3.2-1 Uplink-NIF connection in SML

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18

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(4) Providing redundancy to the peer link between SML switches
When you use two ports to configure redundant peer links, all communications can continue to work unless
both of the peer links fail due to multiple failures.
On the other hand, if a non-redundant peer link fails, problems might occur with the types ofcommunication shown below. To avoid such problems, make sure that you use two ports to configure
redundant peer links.
 Communication going through the peer link
 Functions such as Telnet, FTP, and SNMP that establish IP communication with the SML switch itself(5) Specifying different SML domains for SML configurations
In SML, two switches share a single SML domain. To configure multiple SML configurations, specify adifferent SML domain for each SML configuration.

Partner device (AX6700S)

SML switch
SML ID: 1

SML switch
SML ID: 2

SML switch
SML ID: 1

SML domain ID: 100

SML switch
SML ID: 2

SML switch
SML ID: 1

SML domain ID: 200

SML switch
SML ID: 2

SML domain ID: 300

Figure 3.2-2 Specifying SML domains(6)

Providing high availability through a combination of SML and the server teaming functionality
Combine the link aggregation functionality provided by SML in the AX2530S server switch and by theserver teaming functionality. Using multiple server NICs increases the total bandwidth and provides line
redundancy to the server connections. As a result, simple link aggregation provides redundancy to the entire
network, from clients to servers.
Link aggregation by
the NIC teaming
functionality:
Static mode

Server 1

Server 2

NIC
teaming

NIC
teaming

NIC#1 NIC#2

NIC#1 NIC#2

Servers

SML
Link aggregation by
SML channelgroups:Static mode

0/1

0/2

S1: AX2530S

0/1

0/2

Server switches

S2: AX2530S

Figure 3.2-3 Combination of the SML and server teaming functionality
Configure the teaming functionality of the server NIC for link aggregation in static mode. Then connect theservers and server switches, as shown in the figure above. Link the SML link aggregation by setting it tostatic mode.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(7) Deployment to the system after SML settings are completed
To avoid looping, connect the SML switches to the system after setting up the SML functionality of theswitches. As explained in the next section, Important points for setting up a system, the procedure of setting
up SML is as follows:
Step (1) Enabling SML
Enable the SML functionality of the two SML switches that make up an SML configuration.
Step (2) Enabling the SML channel group
Configure and enable the SML channel group for the two switches that make up an SML configuration.
Step (3) Connecting peer link ports
Connect the peer link ports of the two SML switches by optical cables. This establishes the SML
configuration.

(8) Uplink for 10G uplink models
In uplinking with 10G uplink models, the number of 10G interface ports available is decided by modeltype. In AX2530S-24T4X and AX2530S-24S4X, all of the four uplink ports, which are SFP/SFP+ sharedports, can be used as 10G ports.
In AX2530S-48T2X, two of the four uplink ports (0/49-0/50) are SFP exclusive ports (used as 1G portsonly), while the other two (0/51-0/52) are SFP/SFP＋shared ports (used as 1G or 10G ports).
The setting examples of uplinking and peer linking for SML using each 10G uplink model are shown in
Table 3.2-1 and Fig. 3.2-4. For example, when using the uplink ports of AX2530S-48T2X in the normal
condition, if SML is enabled, the bandwidth for peer links, though narrow, can be used for 40G uplink while
securing redundancy.

Table 3.2-1 Uplink ports of 10G uplink models
Model name

Uplink port

AX2530S-24S4X

SFP/SFP+ shared< 0/25 to 0/28 >SFP/SFP+ shared< 0/25 to 0/28 >SFP exclusive< 0/49 to 0/50 >SFP/SFP+ shared< 0/51 to 0/52 >AX2530S-24T4X
AX2530S-48T2X

SML configuration example

Numberof ports

Uplink4

Peer link

10G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G x 2 = 40G
110G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G x 2 = 40G
-

4
2
2

10G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G x 2 = 40G

40G

40G

UplinkUplinkSML

10G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G
10G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G
10G port x 2
Bandwidth: 20G
-

SML

10G
AX2530S-24T4X/-24S4X

10G
10G
10G

20G 10G
10G
10G

10G
AX2530S-24T4X/-24S4X

10G
AX2530S-48T2X

10G
1G
1G

2G

10G

10G

1G
1G

AX2530S-48T2X

Peer link

Peer link

Example of SML configuration with
AX2530S-24T4X/-24S4X

Example of SML configuration
with SAX2530S-48T2X

Figure 3.2-4 Examples of using the uplink ports of 10G uplink models

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

3.3

Important points for setting up a system
Important points for setting up a system in these examples can be summarized as follows:(1) Configuring FT switch redundancy(2) Enabling SML(3) Setting up SML channel groups(4) No special action required for peer link redundancy(5) Disabling Spanning Tree
(6) Optimizing the link-down detection time

Details are given below.

(1) Configuring FT switch redundancy(a) Configuring BCU/BSU redundancy
You can provide redundancy for a BCU by installing two BCU modules. To configure BSU redundancy,
specify the number of BSU modules used for active operation. In this example, one unit is for active
operation, and the other unit is for standby operation. Therefore, specify as follows:(config)# redundancy max-bsu 1(b) Configuring NIF redundancy
Set up NIF redundancy by building link aggregation between different NIF modules. To add redundancy
in the case of NIF faults, install multiple NIF modules and set up link aggregation between ports of different
NIF modules.

(2) Enabling SML
To enable the SML functionality, you need to specify the three settings shown below. After configuring
and saving these three settings, make sure that you restart the device. SML is enabled after the restart.

•

SML domain ID: Specify the same SML domain ID for each SML configuration unit.
(config)# system sml domain <domain-no.>•

SML ID: Specify the device ID 1 or 2 for devices that make up an SML configuration.
(config)# system sml id <id-no.>•Peer link: Specify the peer link ports connecting SML switches.
(a) For SFP ports(config)# system sml peer-link interface gigabitethernet <port-no.>(b) For SFP/SFP+ shared ports(config)# system sml peer-link interface tengigabitethernet <port-no.>
Table 3.3-1 Peer link port specification

Model type
AX2530S-24T
AX2530S-24T4X
AX2530S-24S4X
AX2530S-48T
AX2530S-48T2X

Configurable peer link ports
0/25-0/28[24T4X][24S4X]: SFP/SFP+ shared ports

Available port combinations
0/25-26 or 0/27-28

0/49-0/52
0/51-52 of [48T2X]: SFP/SFP+ shared ports

0/49-50 or 0/51-52

The ports that can be used as peer link ports are shown in Table 3.3-1. Only uplink ports (SFP ports,
SFP+ ports) can be specified as peer link ports. You can select a maximum of two ports as peer link ports.
Ports not specified as peer link ports can work as normal ports.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Regarding the 10G uplink models, in AX2530S-24T4X and AX2530S-24S4X, all four uplink ports(0/25-0/28) are available as SFP/SFP+ shared ports; in AX2530S-48T2X, two uplink ports (0/49-0/50) areavailable as SFP ports, while the other two (0/15-0/52) as SFP/SFP+ shared ports.

(3) Setting up SML channel groups
Set up an SML channel group for each of the two SML switches. You must specify the same settings forboth SML switches. If the SML channel group settings, such as the group number, the setting mode, and the
VLAN the group belongs to, do not match, the group might not work properly.

(4) No special action required for peer link redundancy
To make the peer link redundant, you simply specify two peer link ports when enabling SML and connect
the ports with two optical cables. Other settings, including link aggregation and interface settings, are notrequired.

(5) Disabling Spanning Tree
Disable Spanning Tree in all devices. Spanning Tree is not used in SML and FT networks. You can
forcibly disable Spanning Tree configuration by enabling SML for the SML switch and restarting the switch.

(6) Optimizing the link-down detection time
Make sure that you set as small a link-down detection time (link debounce time) value as possible without
risking the link becoming unstable. This shortens the time of degenerate operation of link aggregation in caseof a failure.

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3.4

Configuration example
This section shows example settings of the configuration shown in Figure 3.1-2.

(1) Configuration example of the core switch (device C1: AX6700S)
Setting the core switch C1
Configuring BSU redundancy(config)# redundancy max-bsu 1

Configure redundancy of BSU. BSU1 acts as an active unit, and
BSU2 as a standby one. In this case, the standby BSU would bein a hot standby state.
Important points for setting up a system (1)Configuring VLANs(config)# vlan 2,5,10-11,101-120,201-220,301-320

Specify the VLANs to be used.
Data transfer VLANs: 10-11, 101-120, 201-220, 301-320
Management VLANs: 2, 5

Disabling Spanning Tree
(config)# spanning-tree disable

Disable Spanning Tree.
Important points for setting up a system (5)Configuring the ports and channel groups(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 1/1-2,
gigabitethernet 2/1-2(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 5 mode on

Configure ports.
Configure the channel group 5 to ports 1/1-2 and 2/1-2 forserver switch connections.

(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 5/1-2,
gigabitethernet 6/1-2(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 10 mode on

Configure the channel group 10 to ports 5/1-2 and 6/1-2 for
distribution connections (SML: 100).

(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 5/3-4,
gigabitethernet 6/3-4(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 20 mode on

Configure the channel group 20 to ports 5/3-4 and 6/3-4 for
distribution connections (SML: 200).

(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 5/5-6,
gigabitethernet 6/5-6(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 30 mode on

Configure the channel group 30 to ports 5/5-6 and 6/5-6 fordistribution connections (SML: 300).
Set the link-down detection time to 0 milliseconds on all ports.
Important points for setting up a system (6)Set link aggregation to static mode.

Configuring port channels(config)# interface port-channel 5(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10-11

Configure port channels.
Set port channels to trunk mode and specify the VLANs towhich each port channel belongs.

(config)# interface port-channel 10(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120

Specify as follows:
Port channel 5: VLANs 10-11
Port channel 10: VLANs 101-120
Port channel 20: VLANs 201-220
Port channel 30: VLANs 301-320(config)# interface port-channel 20(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 201-220(config)# interface port-channel 30(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 301-320

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Setting the core switch C1
Setting IP addresses(config)# interface vlan 10(config-if)# ip address 172.16.10.1 255.255.255.0

Set IP addresses to data transfer VLANs.
VLAN 10: IP address: 172.16.10.254/24
VLAN 11: IP address: 172.16.11.254/24(config)# interface vlan 11(config-if)# ip address 172.16.11.1 255.255.255.0(config)# interface vlan 101(config-if)# ip address 192.168.1.254 255.255.255.0...
(config)# interface vlan 120(config-if)# ip address 192.168.20.254 255.255.255.0(config)# interface vlan 201(config-if)# ip address 192.169.1.254 255.255.255.0...
(config)# interface vlan 220(config-if)# ip address 192.169.20.254 255.255.255.0

VLAN 101: IP address: 192.168.1.254/24...
VLAN 120: IP address: 192.168.20.254/24
VLAN 201: IP address: 192.169.1.254/24...
VLAN 220: IP address: 192.169.20.254/24
VLAN 301: IP address: 192.170.1.254/24...
VLAN 320: IP address: 192.170.20.254/24(config)# interface vlan 301(config-if)# ip address 192.170.1.254 255.255.255.0...
(config)# interface vlan 320(config-if)# ip address 192.170.20.254 255.255.255.0

Configuring remote management of devices(config)# interface vlan 2(config-if)# ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0

Set IP addresses to the devices.
Set IP addresses to remote management VLAN 5.

(config)# interface vlan 5(config-if)# ip address 10.50.0.254 255.255.255.0(config)# line vty 0 1

Allow login via Telnet (by a maximum of two
concurrent users).

(2) Configuration example of the distribution switches (devices D11, D12: AX2530S)
Devices D11 and D12 require the setting that enables the SML functionality. Also, you must restart thedevices after you complete the setting. Configuration of the devices D11 and D12 are almost the same. Thus, forsettings of D12, this section only shows the settings specific to the device D12.
Setting the distribution switch D11
Enabling SML
Important points for setting up a system (2)(config)# system sml domain 100
Set the SML domain ID to 100.
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restart
because these command become effective after reboot.
the device.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain(config)# system sml id 1
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
because these command become effective after reboot.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain

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Set the SML ID of the device D11 to 1.
Set the SML ID of the device D12 to 2.
<<Setting different between the devices D11 and D12>>
A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restartthe device.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Setting the distribution switch D11(config)# system sml peer-link interface
gigagitethernet 0/27-28
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
because these command become effective after reboot.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain

Configure the two ports 0/27 and 0/28 as peer link ports.
Important points for setting up a system (4)A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restartthe device.

(config)# save

Save the settings.
When the settings are saved, @ appears at the prompt.
With @ at the prompt, restart the device.

@(config)# exit@# reload
Restart OK? (y / n)： yPlease wait a few minutes. The reload command is executing.

Configuring VLANs(config)# vlan 2,101-120

Specify the VLANs to be used.
Data transfer VLANs: 101-120
Management VLAN: 2

Disabling Spanning Tree
(config)# spanning-tree disable

Setting up SML channel groups

Disable Spanning Tree.
You can forcibly disable Spanning Tree by enabling SML for theSwitch and restarting the Switch. No specific actions are
required.
Important points for setting up a system (5)Important points for setting up a system (3)(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 0/25-26(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 10 mode on

Specify the SML channel group settings.
Configure the SML channel group 10 to the uplink ports 0/25-26
for connection with the core switch C1.

(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/1(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 1 mode on

Configure the SML channel group 1 to the downlink port 0/1 forconnections with the floor switch F11.

(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/2(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 2 mode on(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/3(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 3 mode on(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/4(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 4 mode on

Configure the SML channel group 2 to the downlink port 0/2 forconnections with the floor switch F12.
Configure the SML channel group 3 to the downlink port 0/3 forconnections with the floor switch F13.
Configure the SML channel group 4 to the downlink port 0/4 forconnections with the floor switch F14.
Set the link-down detection time to 0 milliseconds on all ports.
Important points for setting up a system (6)Set link aggregation to static mode.

Configuring port channels(config)# interface port-channel 10(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120

Configure port channels.
Set port channels to trunk mode and specify the VLANs towhich each port channel belongs.

(config)# interface port-channel 1(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120

Specify as follows:
Port channel 10: VLANs 101-120
Port channel 1: VLANs 101-120
Port channel 2: VLANs 101-120
Port channel 3: VLANs 101-120
Port channel 4: VLANs 101-120(config)# interface port-channel 2(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120(config)# interface port-channel 3(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Setting the distribution switch D11(config)# interface port-channel 4(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 101-120

Configuring remote management of devices(config)# interface vlan 2(config-if)# ip address 10.1.1.10 255.255.255.0

Set IP addresses to the devices.
Set a different IP address to the device D12.
<<Setting different between the devices D11 and D12>>(config)# line vty 0 1

Allow login via Telnet (by a maximum of two concurrent users).

(config)# ip route 10.50.0.0 255.255.255.0 10.1.1.1

Set a static route for remote management.

The uplink is established with two ports. Connect each uplink port to different NIF modules, as shown below.
Important points for constructing a system (3)Uplink port 0/25 - NIF5/Port1
Uplink port 0/26 - NIF6/Port1
When multiple SML groups are configured like SML: 200, 300, specify different SML domains.
Important points for constructing a system (5)This document does not explain settings for SML: 200, 300. These settings are the same as those for SML: 100(devices D11, D12), except for the SML domain, SML channel group number, VLAN to which the SMLs
belong, and device IP addresses. See the configuration example of SML: 100.

(3) Configuration example of the floor switch (device F11: AX1240S)
Setting the floor switch F11
Configuring VLANs(config)# vlan 2,101-120

Specify the VLANs to be used.
Data transfer VLANs: 101-120
Management VLAN: 2

Disabling Spanning Tree
(config)# spanning-tree disable

Disable Spanning Tree.
Important points for setting up a system (5)Setting up SML channel groups(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 0/25-26(config-if-range)# media-type rj45
(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 1 mode on

Specify the SML channel group settings.
Configure the SML channel group 1 to the uplink ports
0/25-26 for connection with the distribution switches D1
and D2.
Set the link-down detection time to 0 milliseconds.
Important points for setting up a system (6)Set link aggregation to static mode.

Configuring ports(config)# interface port-channel 1(config-if-range)# switchport mode trunk(config-if-range)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 2,101-120(config)# interface fastethernet 0/1(config-if)# switchport mode access(config-if)# switchport access vlan 101...
...
(config)# interface fastethernet 0/20
(config-if)# switchport mode access(config-if)# switchport access vlan 120

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Configure ports.
Specify uplink ports 0/25-26 as trunk ports. Configure
VLANs 101-120 for data transfer and VLAN 2 formanagement.
Specify ports to be connected to the terminals.
Configure the VLANs assigned to each port as an access
port.

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Setting the floor switch F11
Configuring remote management of devices(config)# interface vlan 2(config-if)# ip address 10.1.1.101 255.255.255.0

Set IP addresses to the devices.

(config)# line vty 0 1

Allow login via Telnet (by a maximum of two concurrent
users).

(config)# ip route 10.50.0.0 255.255.255.0 10.1.1.1

Set a static route for remote management.

This document does not explain settings for other floor switches. These settings are the same as those for thedevice F11, except for the SML channel group number, VLAN to which the SML belongs, and device IP
addresses. See the configuration example of the device F11.

(4) Configuration example of the server switches (devices S1, S2: AX2530S)
Devices S1 and S2 require the setting that enables the SML functionality. Also, you must restart the devices
after you complete the setting. Configurations of the devices S1 and S2 are almost the same. Thus, for settings of
S2, this section only shows the settings specific to the device S2.
Setting the server switch S1
Enabling SML

Important points for setting up a system (2)(config)# system sml domain 10
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
because these command become effective after reboot.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain

Set the SML domain ID to 10.
A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restart thedevice.

(config)# system sml id 1
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
because these command become effective after reboot.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain

Set the SML ID of the device S1 to 1.
Set the SML ID of the device S2 to 2.
<<Setting different between the devices S1 and S2>>
A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restart thedevice.

(config)# system sml peer-link interface
gigagitethernet 0/27-28
Please execute the reload after saving all the following commands,
because these command become effective after reboot.
- system sml id- system sml peer-link- system sml domain

Configure the two ports 0/27 and 0/28 as peer link ports.
Important points for setting up a system (4)A message appears that asks you to save the settings and restart thedevice.

(config)# save

Save the settings.
When the settings are saved, @ appears at the prompt.
With @ at the prompt, restart the device.

@(config)# exit@# reload
Restart OK? (y / n)： yPlease wait a few minutes. The reload command is executing.

Configuring VLANs

Disabling Spanning Tree

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AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)
Setting the server switch S1(config)# spanning-tree disable

Disable Spanning Tree.
You can forcibly disable Spanning Tree by enabling SML for theSwitch and restarting the Switch. No specific actions are required.
Important points for setting up a system (5)Setting up SML channel groups

Important points for setting up a system (3)(config)# interface range gigabitethernet 0/23-24(config-if-range)# link debounce time 0(config-if-range)# channel-group 5 mode on

Specify the SML channel group settings.
Configure the SML channel group 5 to the uplink ports 0/23-24 forconnections with the core switch C1.

(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/1(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 1 mode on

Configure the SML channel group 1 to the downlink port 0/1 forconnections with the server 1.

(config)# interface gigabitethernet 0/2(config-if)# link debounce time 0(config-if)# channel-group 2 mode on

Configure the SML channel group 2 to the downlink port 0/2 forconnections with the server 2.
Set the link-down detection time to 0 milliseconds on all ports.
Important points for setting up a system (6)Set link aggregation to static mode.

Configuring port channels(config)# interface port-channel 5(config-if)# switchport mode trunk(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10-11

Configure port channels.
Set port channels to trunk mode and specify the VLANs to which
each port channel belongs.

(config)# interface port-channel 1(config-if)# switchport mode access(config-if)# switchport access vlan 10

Specify as follows:
Port channel 5: VLANs 10-11
Port channel 1: VLAN 10 (for the server 1)
Port channel 2: VLAN 11 (for the server 2)(config)# interface port-channel 2(config-if)# switchport mode access(config-if)# switchport access vlan 11

Configuring remote management of devices(config)# interface vlan 2(config-if)# ip address 10.1.1.2 255.255.255.0

Set IP addresses to the devices.
Set a different IP address to the device S2.
<<Setting different between the devices S1 and S2>>

(config)# line vty 0 1

Allow login via Telnet (by a maximum of two concurrent users).

(config)# ip route 10.50.0.0 255.255.255.0 10.1.1.1

Set a static route for remote management.

The uplink is established with two ports. Connect each uplink port to different NIF modules, as shown below.
Important points for constructing a system (3)Uplink port 0/23 - NIF1/Port1
Uplink port 0/24 - NIF2/Port1
A combination of the SML functionality and the server teaming functionality provides high availability to theconnections between the server switches and the servers.
Important points for constructing a system (3)Configuration files for the devices explained above are provided with this document.
For details, see Appendix. Configuration Files.

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4. Operation Management
This chapter explains the management of basic SML operation.

4.1

Operation of SML

Though SML can establish link aggregation combining two SML switches, the functions shown below,
including the operation, configuration, and logging of messages, are separate for each switch.

(1) Device operation
You must operate each of the two SML switches, one at a time.
Also, you must separately set up and edit configuration of each of the switches, and the specified
configurations work independently from each other.

(2) IP communication and logging
Establish IP communications for SML switches on a per-switch basis. Also, you must set different IP
addresses for each VLAN interface.
Perform IP communications required for device management, such as Telnet, FTP, SNMP, and traps,
independently for each device. Also, collect operation logs and syslogs individually from each switch.

(3) Collecting operation logs
Different operation logs are created on each SML switch. Thus, collect the operation log individuallyfrom each device. Up and down operation logs of SML channel groups must also be collected from eachdevice. To obtain logs of a single channel group, collect the logs from the two devices.

(4) MIB/Traps
IP communication (to and from the device) is also performed on a per-device basis. You must collect
MIBs by specifying the IP address of individual devices.
Also, you must collect SML channel group statistics from each device, use the SNMP manager to makesure that the port channel is the same, and then add up the statistics counter values.
The interface number (ifIndex) of the SML channel group must be the same on both devices. Notethat the SML channel group private MIB and traps are not supported.

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4.2

Checking the SML status(1) SML status
When the SML functionality is enabled on a device, you can check the SML status from the status LED(ST2) on the front of the device.
Table 4.2-1 LED indicators and SML status
ST2 LEDindicator
Off
Blinkinggreen

SML status
SML disabledThis is the normal status of the device when SML is disabled.

SML conflict

The error status occurs in the following cases:- A device with the same SML ID as this Switch is detected.
- Three or more SML devices are detected for theconfiguration.
The standalone status occurs in the following cases:- A device that has SML enabled is searching for theneighboring device during startup.
- The device is in SML full status and has detected a fault of
the neighboring SML device or a peer link failure.

(Conflict)

SML standalone(Standalone)Green

Status details

SML full

SML is enabled and properly configured.

(Full)* The SML statuses in parentheses are indications by the operation commands.

(2) SML operation commands
You can use operation commands to check SML status, SML configuration settings, and SML channelgroup status.

(a) Checking SML status information
Example result of the operation command show sml
D11# show sml
Date 2011/01/18 17:14:02 UTC
SML Status : Full... [SML status]
sml id: 1
sml domain: 100... SML settings of this Switch
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: 2... SML settings of the neighboring device
sml domain: 100(b) Checking SML channel group status information
Example result of the operation command show sml channel-group
D11# show sml channel-group
Date 2011/01/18 17:14:08 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:1 >< SML ID:2
1
Up
Up
2
Up
Up
3
Up
Up
4
Up
Up
10
Up
Up

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

>... [SML channel group status]>
Status of the SML channelgroup composed of two SML
switches (this Switch and theneighboring device)30

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(3) Example display of SML status(a) Normal operation status
During normal operation, the SML status is shown as below. The two applicable SML
switches are both in the Full status, and all the SML channel groups are in the Up status.
C1: AX6708S

BCU1
NIF1

BCU(1系)

BCU(2系)

NIF1

NIF2

BSU1
BSU2
NIF5

BSU(1系)

ACT

BSU(2系)

SBY

BCU2
NIF2

Core switch
NIF6

6/1-2
NIF6

5/1-2
NIF5

SML ChGr: 10

SML: 100

SML Switch A

SML Switch B

D11: AX2530S

0/25-26

0/25-26

0/27-28

0/27-28

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/2

SML ChGr: 1

F11:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

VLAN 101-120

0/3

0/4

0/1

F12:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

...

0/2

0/3

SML ChGr: 3

SML ChGr: 2

0/20

D12: AX2530S

F13:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120

0/20

0/1

...

0/20

...

Status of SML Switch A

Distribution
switches

0/4

SML ChGr: 4

F14:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

Floor switches...

Status of SML Switch B

D11# show sml

D12# show sml

Date 2011/01/20 11:05:58 UTC
SML Status : Fullsml id: 1
sml domain: 100
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: 2
sml domain: 100

Date 2011/01/20 11:06:11 UTC
SML Status : Fullsml id: 2
sml domain: 100
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: 1
sml domain: 100

D11# show sml channel-group

D12# show sml channel-group

Date 2011/01/20 11:06:05 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:1 ><SML ID:2
1
Up
Up
2
Up
Up
3
Up
Up
4
Up
Up
10
Up
Up

>
>

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

Date 2011/01/20 11:06:18 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:2 ><SML ID:1
1
Up
Up
2
Up
Up
3
Up
Up
4
Up
Up
10
Up
Up

>
>

31

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(b) Line failure status
In the case of a line failure, the SML status is shown as below. If a line failure occurs in all
the uplink ports of SML Switch A, SML switch A detects a downlink in uplink ports andredirects data to the peer link. In this case, the SML status remains Full, but SML ChGr: 10
of SML Switch A changes to the Down status.
C1: AX6708S

BCU1

BCU(1系)

BCU(2系)

NIF１

NIF1

NIF2

BSU1
BSU
２
NIF５

BCU2
NIF2

BSU(1系)

ACT

BSU(2系)

SBY

Core switch
NIF6

6/1-2
NIF6

5/1-2
NIF5

SML ChGr: 10
Line failure

SML: 100

SML Switch A

SML Switch B

D11: AX2530S

0/25-26

0/25-26

0/27-28

0/27-28

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/2

SML ChGr: 1

F11:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

F12:
AX1240S

D12: AX2530S
VLAN 101-120

0/3

0/4

0/1

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

...

0/3

F13:
AX1240S

0/25

SML ChGr: 4

0/26

VLAN 101-120

0/20

0/1

...

0/20

...

Status of SML Switch A

Distribution
switches

0/4

SML ChGr: 3

SML ChGr: 2

0/25

0/2

F14:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

Floor switches...

Status of SML Switch B

D11# show sml

D12# show sml

Date 2011/01/20 11:11:59 UTC
SML Status : Fullsml id: 1
sml domain: 100
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: 2
sml domain: 100

Date 2011/01/20 11:12:20 UTC
SML Status : Fullsml id: 2
sml domain: 100
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: 1
sml domain: 100

D11# show sml channel-group

D12# show sml channel-group

Date 2011/01/20 11:12:08 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:1 ><SML ID:2
1
Up
Up
2
Up
Up
3
Up
Up
4
Up
Up
10
Down
Up

>
>

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

Date 2011/01/20 11:12:27 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:2 ><SML ID:1
1
Up
Up
2
Up
Up
3
Up
Up
4
Up
Up
10
Up
Down

32

>
>

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(c) Device fault status
In the case of a device fault, the SML status is shown as below. If a fault occurs in SML Switch A,
all the SML channel groups connected to SML Switch A are put into the Down status, and allcommunication is redirected to the path through SML Switch B. In this case, the SML status of SML
Switch B becomes Standalone, and the SML channel groups of the neighboring device (SML
Switch A) enter the Isolated status.
C1: AX6708S

BCU1

BCU(1系)

BCU(2系)

NIF1

NIF1

NIF2

BSU1
BSU2
NIF5

BSU(1系)

ACT

BSU(2系)

SBY

BCU2
NIF2

Core switch
NIF6

6/1-2
NIF6

5/1-2
NIF5

SML ChGr: 10

SML: 100

SML Switch A

SML Switch B

D11: AX2530S

Device fault
0/1

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

...

0/25-26

0/27-28

0/27-28

VLAN 101-120
0/2

SML ChGr: 1

F11:
AX1240S

0/25-26

F12:
AX1240S

D12: AX2530S
VLAN 101-120

0/3

0/4

0/1

SML ChGr: 2

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

...

0/2

0/3

SML ChGr: 3

F13:
AX1240S

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

Distribution
switches

0/4

SML ChGr: 4

F14:
AX1240S

0/20

...

0/25

0/26

VLAN 101-120
0/1

0/20

Floor switches...

Status of SML Switch B
D12# show sml
Date 2011/01/20 11:15:39 UTC
SML Status : Standalone
sml id: 2
sml domain: 100
sml peer-link : 0/27-28
Peer
sml id: sml domain: D12# show sml channel-group
Date 2011/01/20 11:15:44 UTC<ChGr> <channel-group status< No > < SML ID:2 ><SML ID:1
Up
Isolated
2
Up
Isolated
3
Up
Isolated
4
Up
Isolated
10
Up
Isolated

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

>
>

33

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

4.3

Software update procedure
While the software is being updated, degenerate operation of link aggregation allows communication tocontinue. To update an SML switch:(1) Update one of the SML switches (Switch A). When the update finishes, Switch A restarts automatically.
During the update, degenerate operation of link aggregation allows communication to continue,
redirecting data to the path through the other SML switch (Switch B).
(2) When the restarting of Switch A finishes, communication switches back to the original route. Make
sure that the SML status is Full.
(3) Update Switch B. Do this in the same way as the update for Switch A. When the update finishes,
Switch B restarts automatically. When the restart of the second switch finishes, the update of the two
switches is completed.

The update restarts theswitch.
After that, the routeswitches back.

Degenerate operationof link aggregation
allows communication
to continue.
SoftwareupdateSML

SwitchrestartSML

SML

SoftwareupdateFigure 4.3-1 Software update procedure

4.4

SML switch replacement procedure
Replacing a device requires a similar procedure to software updating. To replace a device:(1) Before replacing a device, create a backup file of the device, and then save the file via an MC, FTP, orother means.
(2) On the new device, restore the backup file created in step 1.
(3) Replace the device and connect the cables.
(4) Turn on the power of the device.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

34

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

5. Important Notes(1) Upgrade license requirement for SML
The SML functionality of AX2530S series products requires an optional upgrade license (OS-L2A-U).

(2) Peer link
Ports set for the peer link offer only the peer link functionality. Also, a port used for a peer link cannot be
part of a set of ports used for other functions.
Ports specified for the peer link are always set as shown below, and you cannot enter the configurationinterface mode (config-if) for such ports.
Table 5-1 Peer link port settings
Item
Speed setting
MTU setting
VLAN

Settingauto
Maximum value (9,216 bytes)
All VLANs (1-4094)

Remarks
The command system mtu is ignored.
The command show vlan does not show
the value.

(3) Port allocation for sending frames
For link aggregation, port allocation for sending frames is performed by the partner device of an SML
switch (that is, a switch connected to uplink and downlink ports).
The port allocation differs depending on the partner switch model. For AX series products, when aproblem is resolved, the AX6000S family, the AX3600S series, the AX2400S series, and the AX2500S
series switch communication back to the original route. On the other hand, unlike the other AX series,
AX1200S series products allocate ports so that the current route is used as much as possible.

Degrade operation
due to a line failure

Normal route
FailureSM

Failure recovery

Routeswitched back

AX6000S family

SM

AX3600S series
AX2500S series
AX2400S series

Routeswitched backCurrent routeused even after
the problem issolvedSM

AX1200S series

SM

Figure 5-1 Port allocation for sending frames

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

35

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)(4) Prohibited configurations of SML
For SML, the following configurations are not allowed:(a) Connection of devices with the same SML ID[Prohibited configuration]
Devices with the same SML ID cannot form an SML configuration. Make sure that you connect
SML switches with different SML IDs.
[Operation by prohibited configuration]
If devices with the same SML ID are connected together, both devices detect each other andforcibly inactivate the peer link port. Even in this state, the other functions work normally.

(b) Three or more devices connected for an SML configuration[Prohibited configuration]
You cannot connect three or more devices with SML enabled. Make sure that you connect only two
SML switches.
[Operation by prohibited configuration]
If three or more devices with SML enabled form an SML configuration, all the devices detect one
another and forcibly inactivate the peer link port. Even in this state, the other functions worknormally.

(5) Clearing the MAC address table
SML switches clear the MAC address table in synchronization.

(a) Clearing the MAC address table entry for a port
If a single port of the neighboring device is down, the MAC address of the port is cleared within thedevice. In addition, of the learned MAC address entries shown as peer-link in the interface of thisdevice, the MAC address of the downed port of the neighboring device is cleared.

(b) Clearing the MAC address table of an entire device
When the configuration command clear mac-address-table is executed on one of the SML
switches, the MAC address table of the other SML switch is also cleared. In such a case, the device
on which the operation command is executed records the operation log entries of the KEY event andclearing of the MAC address table, and the other device only records the operation log entry of theclearing of the MAC address table.

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

36

AX Series SML Configuration Guide (Edition 1)

Appendix. Configuration Files
The files below show examples of the system configuration described in this guide.
The text files containing configurations of devices used in the SML-enabled FT network example, explained in
Chapter 3, are attached to this file. (Extracting the attachment files requires Adobe Reader 6.0 or later.)For details about each configuration, see the attachment file with the same name as shown below.

Example of an SML-Enabled FT Network
Switch typeCore switch
Distribution switch

Floor switch

Server switch

Device name/applicable switch

Configuration host name

File name

C1: AX6708S

Core-SW

C1-AX67S.txt

D11: AX2530S

DB1-SW1

D11-AX25S.txt

D12: AX2530S

DB1-SW2

D12-AX25S.txt

F11: AX1240S

FL11-SW

FL11-AX12S.txt

F12: AX1240S

FL12-SW

FL12-AX12S.txt

F13: AX1240S

FL13-SW

FL13-AX12S.txt

F14: AX1240S

FL14-SW

FL14-AX12S.txt

S1: AX2530S

SV-SW1S1-AX25S.txt

S2: AX2530S

SV-SW2

S2-AX25S.txt

Copyright © 2011, ALAXALA Networks Corporation. All rights reserved.

37

Edition 2 – December 8, 2011

Network Technical Support
ALAXALA Networks Corporation
Shinkawasaki Mitsui Bldg West Tower 1-1-2
Kashimada, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki-shi,
Kanagawa, 212-0058, JAPANhttp://www.alaxala.com/en/index.html