Cisco Compatible N2XX-AIPCI01 – PCIe x8 NIC with 2 Open SFP+ Ports (Intel 82599)

Upgrade your server’s network performance with the Cisco Compatible N2XX-AIPCI01. This PCI Express x8 Network Interface Card is built for reliability in data centers, enterprises, and virtualization environments. Featuring two Open SFP+ ports and the proven Intel 82599 chipset, it delivers robust 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, flexible fiber optics, and Cisco N2XX compatibility for seamless integration with Cisco infrastructure.

• Dual Open SFP+ ports with 10GbE capacity: Enjoy high-speed connectivity on two independent 10 Gigabit Ethernet paths. The Open SFP+ design accepts standard SFP+ transceivers, enabling flexible fiber or copper options tailored to your network.
• Intel 82599 chipset for reliable throughput: The trusted Intel 82599 family underpins dependable performance, with advanced offloads that reduce CPU load, improve data throughput, and enhance efficiency in demanding traffic patterns.
• PCI Express x8 form factor for scalable deployments: A high-bandwidth PCIe x8 interface provides ample headroom for modern servers, enabling smooth operation in multi-card configurations and dense data-center racks.
• Cisco N2XX compatibility for seamless integration: Designed to work with Cisco N2XX series environments, ensuring compatibility with Cisco management tools and standardized networking workflows.
• Plug-and-play installation with broad OS support: Works with widely used operating systems and virtualization platforms, backed by Intel driver support for Windows, Linux, and VMware ecosystems to simplify deployment and ongoing management.

Technical Details of Cisco Compatible N2XX-AIPCI01

• Product type: PCI Express x8 Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Ports: 2x Open SFP+ ports for flexible transceiver choices
• Chipset: Intel 82599 family
• Data rate: Up to 10 GbE per port (dual-port capability provides up to 20 GbE total bandwidth depending on configuration and cabling)
• Interface: PCI Express x8 interface to the host system
• Compatibility: Cisco N2XX series and other Cisco-friendly networking environments; standard SFP+ modules supported through the Open SFP+ ports
• Driver and OS support: Broad driver support from Intel and ecosystem partners for Windows, Linux, VMware, and other virtualization platforms

Notes on Technical Details

The N2XX-AIPCI01 is designed to integrate into servers that require scalable, fault-tolerant 10GbE networking with flexible optics through Open SFP+ ports. The Intel 82599 chipset provides strong throughput with offload capabilities to optimize CPU usage during heavy network loads. While transceivers are not included, you can select SFP+ modules that fit your fiber or DAC/Copper cabling strategy, enabling a wide range of deployment options from data centers to edge environments.

How to install Cisco Compatible N2XX-AIPCI01

• Power down your server completely, unplug from the power source, and discharge static electricity before handling components.

• Open the server chassis and locate an available PCI Express slot that is at least x8 capable, or larger. The N2XX-AIPCI01 requires an PCIe x8 interface for optimal bandwidth.

• Remove the PCIe slot cover bracket and align the NIC’s connector with the slot. Gently but firmly insert the card until it seats fully in the motherboard slot.

• Secure the card to the chassis with the appropriate screw to prevent movement during operation.

• Install your chosen Open SFP+ transceivers into the two SFP+ ports on the NIC, and connect fiber or copper cabling to the transceivers as required by your network design.

• Replace the chassis cover, reconnect power, and boot the server. The system should recognize the new NIC and begin the driver installation process.

• Install or update drivers using the operating system’s driver management tools or the Intel driver package. After installation, verify that both ports are detected and show the expected link status with your fiber or DAC connections.

• Configure the network interfaces in your OS or hypervisor management console. Assign IPs, set VLANs, and apply any QoS or security policies as needed to complete your deployment.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the N2XX-AIPCI01?

  A: It is a Cisco-compatible PCIe x8 NIC with two Open SFP+ ports, built around the Intel 82599 chipset, designed for high-speed 10GbE connectivity and seamless integration into Cisco N2XX environments.

• Q: What speeds does this NIC support?

  A: Each Open SFP+ port supports up to 10 GbE. In dual-port configurations, total bandwidth can reach up to 20 GbE depending on the network design and traffic patterns.

• Q: Are SFP+ transceivers included?

  A: No transceivers are included with the card. You will need to supply compatible SFP+ modules or DAC cables based on your network requirements.

• Q: Which operating systems are supported?

  A: The NIC is supported by Intel and ecosystem drivers across Windows, Linux, and VMware, providing broad compatibility for server, virtualization, and cloud workloads.

• Q: Is this card compatible with Cisco switches and routers?

  A: Yes, it is designed to be Cisco-compatible, particularly within Cisco N2XX-based deployments, enabling consistent performance and management with Cisco networking gear.

• Q: Can I use this NIC in a dense server chassis with multiple NICs?

  A: The PCIe x8 interface and dual 10GbE ports make it well-suited for multi-card configurations in dense servers, allowing scalable, high-throughput network layouts when paired with compatible switches and transceivers.