Before you install your Cisco C9350 switch, you must decide on your data stack and power stack requirements.

StackWise stack

A Cisco data stack is a network solution that combines multiple stackable switches to function as a single logical device. Data stacks allows network administrators to expand the network capacity and manage multiple switches as a single unit. Cisco StackWise is a data stack that allows two physical switches to operate as a single logical switch. It simplifies management, provides high availability, and enhances scalability in enterprise networks, data centers, and campus environments.

Up to eight Cisco C9350 series switches can be connected together through the StackWise ports, using the StackWise cables to form a data stack.

StackPower stack

A StackPower Stack is a power management solution for Cisco switches that combines the available power supplies in multiple connected switches into a single shared power pool. This technology allows for more efficient power distribution and management across a stack of switches. With Cisco StackPower, a common pool of power is made available to all switches in the stack, and the additional power is automatically redirected to the appropriate switch based on the available power budget in the common power pool.

You can stack up to four switches together through the StackPower ports, using the StackPower cables to form a power stack. So a full eight-switch stack, forms two separate power pools, each sharing power among their four members.

For more information about data stacks and power stacks, refer to the Stacking document.