Aruba R&S
1
Posts
1
Users
0
Reactions
7
Views
Topic starter
VSF (Virtual Switching Framework) and VSX (Virtual Switching Extension) are both Aruba technologies that let you connect two or more switches so they work together — but they’re designed for different purposes.
-
VSF is mainly used on access or edge switches (like Aruba 2930F or 3810M).
It combines multiple switches into one logical switch with a single control plane.
That means you manage them as one device — one IP address, one configuration.
If the master switch fails, another member takes over, but there can be a short interruption.
It’s simple, cost-effective, and great for smaller networks. -
VSX is used on core or data center switches (like Aruba 8320, 8360, or 8400).
It links two switches together for high availability, but each one keeps its own control plane and configuration.
They synchronize important data between them and forward traffic actively on both sides.
This design allows non-disruptive upgrades and no downtime if one switch fails.
It’s more advanced, scalable, and ideal for critical environments that need continuous uptime.
Overview
| Feature | VSF (Virtual Switching Framework) | VSX (Virtual Switching Extension) |
|---|---|---|
| Used on | Aruba 2930F, 3810M, 5400R series (Access/Aggregation) | Aruba 8320, 8360, 8400 series (Core/Aggregation) |
| Purpose | Simplify management by combining multiple switches into one logical switch | Provide high availability and scalability while keeping control planes independent |
| Design philosophy | Single control plane (one switch acts as master, others as members) | Dual control planes (each switch operates independently but synchronizes key data) |
Architecture
| Aspect | VSF | VSX |
|---|---|---|
| Control plane | Shared — one master controls all members | Independent — each switch keeps its own control plane |
| Management | Single IP and config for the stack | Each switch has its own management IP, but configuration is synchronized |
| Failover behavior | If master fails, new master elected; short disruption possible | No master/slave model — hitless failover and non-disruptive upgrades |
| Data plane | Unified | Distributed but synchronized |
| Software upgrades | Typically disruptive (whole stack reloads) | Non-disruptive (ISSU supported — In-Service Software Upgrade) |
Connectivity
| Feature | VSF | VSX |
|---|---|---|
| Inter-switch link | VSF link(s) — usually front-panel ports | ISL (Inter-Switch Link) — front-panel or dedicated ports |
| Peer keepalive | Not separate | Dedicated keepalive link used for heartbeat |
| Multi-chassis LAG (MC-LAG) | Supported internally as VSF LAG | Supported via VSX LAG (active-active forwarding) |
| VSF | VSX | |
|---|---|---|
| Control Plane | Single (Master/Member) | Dual (Independent) |
| Upgrade Method | Disruptive | Non-disruptive (ISSU) |
| Target Platforms | Access/Edge | Core/Data Center |
| Management Style | One logical switch | Two synchronized switches |
| Resiliency | Good | Excellent |
Posted : 05/11/2025 7:17 am
