How to Connect Multiple Ethernet Switches

When a single switch cannot meet the network’s growing demands (such as an insufficient number of ports or certain functional limitations), we typically combine multiple Ethernet switches. But how can we connect network switches together? This article will explore three common connection methods: switch cascading, switch stacking, and switch clustering, and will help you determine the best approach based on network size, performance requirements, and management needs.

Connect Multiple Ethernet Switches by Switch Cascading

Switch cascading is a traditional method for connecting multiple Ethernet switches. To establish a connection, simply link the uplink port of one switch to the standard port of another switch, typically using an Ethernet cable. This approach is highly flexible, allowing additional switches to be easily integrated into the network, resulting in high port density. Each switch can be independently configured and managed in the group. Among the switch cascade network, daisy chain topology and star topology are two common ways.

Daisy Chain Topology – Daisy Chain Switches One by One

Daisy chain topology, as its name implies, connects each switch in series to the next, like the petals of a daisy. It is the simplest way to add more switches in a network. The structure of daisy chain network switches can be a line topology (where the switches at both ends are not connected), which can be simply described as A-B-C-D-E-F, or a ring topology (where the switches at both ends are connected), which can be simply described as A-B-C-D-E-F-A.

Figure 1: daisy chain switches via line topology or ring topology

For no more than three Ethernet switches, a linear topology of daisy chaining is okay since there is no loop. However, it owns drawbacks in switch failure due to lacking redundancy. In linear topology, data must be transmitted from one switch to another in one direction. Once one network switch fails, the others will also be dragged in. In general, linear daisy chain networks are less flexible, similar to electrical series circuits, where one interruption affects other connected items.

For more than three Ethernet switches, ring topology is better. It allows two-way transmission where data is sent in both directions. If the ring breaks at a particular link, then the transmission can be sent via the reverse path, thereby ensuring that all switches are always connected in the case of a single failure. However, in ring topology, daisy chaining switches are inevitable to cause loops that can create broadcast storms and network congestion. So you’d better make sure your network switch supports STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) to deal with the loop issue.

Star Topology – Link Access Switches to the Core

In a star topology, all switches in the network are connected to a core switch through point-to-point links. This design allows data to be transmitted from the core switch to the destination node, with the core switch managing all communication between switches. Compared to a daisy chain topology, where traffic must pass sequentially through each switch, a star topology offers more efficient traffic forwarding, lower latency, and easier fault isolation. It is widely used in connecting many gigabit switches together.

Figure 2: link access switches to the core via star topology

When connecting Gigabit switches through star topology, a powerful switch (such as 40G switch) often acts as the core, which then connects to the access switches (such as 10G switches). In this scenario, no loop occurs and all access switches are much closer to the central switch.

Connect Multiple Ethernet Switches by Switch Stacking

Switch stacking is a networking solution that connects two or more stackable switches to operate as a single logical unit. This approach enhances network capacity, link redundancy, and management efficiency.

In physical stacking, switches are interconnected using dedicated stack ports or modules, typically via dedicated stack cables. A proprietary stacking protocol is enabled to form a unified stack unit, allowing the entire group to be managed through a single IP address as if it were one switch.

Virtual stacking, by contrast, connects switches via standard Ethernet ports rather than using dedicated stacking modules or cables. It is particularly well-suited for distributed deployments, such as wiring closets or remote branch offices. The total port density of a stack unit is the sum of the combined ports. For example, stacking eight S3900-24T4S-R Gigabit switches through 10G uplink ports enables the creation of a large virtual switch with 192 1GbE ports.

Figure 3: eight S3900-24T4S-R switches stacking together

Connect Multiple Ethernet Switches by Switch Clustering

Switch clustering can manage the multiple interconnected switches as a single logical management unit. One switch is typically designated as the command switch, which manages and configures the other member switches in the cluster through network connections. Unlike switch stacking, clustering does not require dedicated stack ports—standard Ethernet cables or fiber connections are sufficient for physical connectivity. The entire cluster can be managed using a single IP address, which saves valuable IP resources and enables centralized management across different locations or regions. Some manufacturers offer specialized management platforms, such as FS AmpCon-Campus controller, which further simplify cluster configuration and automate operations.

Figure 4: a command switch and several member switches in a switch cluster unit

Which Is the Best Way to Connect Multiple Ethernet Switches?

Traditional cascading Ethernet switch (daisy-chain topology or star topology), as well as advanced switch stacking and switch clustering, are three ways to connect multiple network switches. Then which is the best? The table below shows the differences among switch cascade vs switch stack vs switch cluster:

	Switch Cascading	Switch Stacking	Switch Clustering
Number of Connected switches	No limitation in principle	Limited	Limited
Bandwidth	Won't be increased	The bandwidth is much increased	It depends on whether you adopt switch cascading for clustering or switch stacking for clustering, then the bandwidth of clustering unit equals that of the stacking unit or cascading unit
Operation & Control	Member switches are managed separately	Member switches are managed as a whole by master switch	Member switches are managed as a whole by command switch
Flexibility	Almost all the switches can be cascaded regardless of manufacture and types	Usually happens in stackable switches of same models from the same manufacturer	Only specific cluster-capable switches from the same manufacturer can be clustered.
IP Address Management	Each switch has one IP address	All the switches share a single IP address	Only one IP address for command switch

From what is shown in the table, we can know that all of them have respective pros and cons. Therefore, how to connect multiple Ethernet switches should rely on your particular applications.

Switch cascading is suitable for small networks or simple expansions, such as in small offices or branch setups, where switches can be managed independently and cost is a concern. If your deployment involves less than three switches and minimal traffic, daisy chaining in a linear topology is sufficient, while a star topology offers better stability and is recommended when a central switch is available.

Switch stacking fits medium to large networks like enterprise or campus environments, offering efficient management, better redundancy, and higher port density by treating multiple switches as one.

In large-scale or distributed environments—such as university campuses, enterprise headquarters with multiple departments, or government facilities—switch clustering provides centralized management of multiple switch groups across different locations. It’s particularly useful when IT teams want to reduce IP address consumption, streamline configuration, and monitor devices from a single control point.

FAQ

Q1: How many Ethernet switches can you daisy chain?

A: While there's no hard limit, typically daisy chaining more than 3–4 switches is not recommended for performance and manageability reasons.

Q2: Does daisy chaining switches slow down the network?

A: Yes, daisy chaining can slow down a network, especially as more switches are added in series. Each switch adds latency as data passes through it, and with multiple switches, this latency can accumulate, potentially causing delays. Additionally, if one switch becomes congested or fails, it can impact the entire network.

Q3: Can I connect different brands of switches together?

A: Yes, switches from different brands can usually be connected via standard Ethernet ports, as long as they follow the same networking protocols. However, advanced features like stacking or clustering often require switches from the same vendor and model series.

Q4: How many switches can I stack together?

A: The number of stackable switches depends on the vendor and model. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for limits and compatibility.

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to connecting multiple Ethernet switches. Whether you choose a daisy chain for simplicity, a star topology for better performance, or advanced methods like stacking and clustering for easier management, the right choice depends on your network’s scale, goals, and future growth. If you're looking for a reliable and flexible foundation for your switching architecture, PicOS® Enterprise Switches offer the performance and scalability features to support diverse topologies and future-proof your network.