System and method for direct communication with a backup network device via a failover cable

摘要

A system and method are disclosed for providing a failover for designating a primary network device and a backup network device and providing direct communication between the primary network device and the backup network device. The cable includes a plurality of conductive wires having a primary end and a backup end. A primary connector is connected to the plurality of conductive wires at the primary end of the plurality of conductive wires. The primary connector has a primary plug driver pin and a primacy select pin, and the primary plug driver pin is connected to the primacy select pin. A backup connector is connected to the plurality of conductive wires at the backup end of the plurality of conductive wires, the backup connector has a grounded pin and a backup select pin and the backup grounded pin is connected to the backup select pin. Thus, the primary end of the failover cable is distinguishable from the backup end of the failover cable.