Cisco Modular Network Interface Card — Dual 10GbE SFP+ PCIe 2.0 NIC

Experience enterprise-grade performance with the Cisco Modular Network Interface Card, a PCI Express 2.0 NIC designed for high-speed fiber connectivity. This two-port SFP+ module delivers robust 10 GbE throughput, ideal for data centers, virtualization hosts, and demanding workstations that demand low latency and high reliability. Built to integrate seamlessly into desktops, servers, or workstation rigs that include PCIe 2.0 slots, it provides scalable, modular fiber connectivity and the flexibility to choose the right SFP+ transceivers for your network. Whether you’re expanding an existing network, implementing a new virtualized environment, or upgrading a critical server, this Cisco NIC gives you the bandwidth to keep pace with modern workloads. Its modular design helps future-proof your investment, enabling easy upgrades as your network grows or distance requirements change.

• Dual SFP+ 10GbE ports enable high-throughput fiber connections and easy link aggregation for fault tolerance and performance. You can combine both ports for aggregated bandwidth or set up separate paths for redundancy, delivering resilient connectivity for mission-critical workloads.
• PCI Express 2.0 interface ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of desktops, workstations, and server platforms while delivering efficient data transfer. The slot compatibility makes it suitable for mainstream builds as well as high-density deployments.
• SFP+ modular design supports a wide range of optical transceivers, letting you choose reach (SR/LR/ER) and distance to fit your network topology. This flexibility minimizes the need for rewiring when topology, distance, or fiber type changes.
• Optimized for low CPU overhead and low latency, helping applications respond faster in virtualized environments, databases, analytics, and streaming workloads. Offloading duties from the host CPU supports higher concurrent sessions and smoother performance under load.
• Compact PCIe add-in card that fits standard PCIe slots in desktops and servers, enabling straightforward installation and future upgrades without replacing your motherboard. The card is designed for easy integration into existing racks and workstations, reducing downtime during upgrades.

Technical Details of Cisco Modular Network Interface Card

• Interface: PCI Express 2.0
• Ports: 2 x SFP+ 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Data Rate: Up to 10 Gbps per port (20 Gbps total potential, depending on transceivers and network configuration)
• Media: Optical fiber via SFP+ transceivers
• Form Factor: PCIe 2.0 add-in card for desktops, workstations, and servers
• Compatibility: Supports standard 10GbE fiber modules and common 10GBASE-SR/LR-style transceivers

How to Install Cisco Modular Network Interface Card

• Power down your computer or server and unplug from power. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Open the chassis and locate an available PCIe slot that matches the card’s form factor and clearance.
• Insert the Cisco NIC firmly into the PCIe slot until it seats completely, then secure the bracket with a screw if required.
• Close the case, reconnect power, and boot the system.
• Install the appropriate drivers for your operating system. Obtain drivers from Cisco’s support site or your hardware vendor’s driver repository, then follow the on-screen installation prompts.
• Install the proper SFP+ transceivers in both ports and connect fiber optic cables to your network switch, router, or optical distribution frame as needed.
• Configure the network interface in your operating system and in your switch for any desired features such as link aggregation (LACP) or VLANs, then verify link status and throughput.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the maximum speed of the Cisco Modular Network Interface Card?
  A: Each SFP+ port supports up to 10 Gbps, for a total potential of 20 Gbps across both ports, depending on your network and transceiver modules.
• Q: How many ports does this NIC provide?
  A: It provides 2 x SFP+ 10GbE ports for fiber connectivity.
• Q: What types of cables or transceivers do I need?
  A: You will need compatible SFP+ optical transceivers (for example, 10GBASE-SR/LR/LRM) and corresponding fiber optic cables suitable for your distance requirements.
• Q: What operating systems are supported?
  A: Driver availability generally covers Windows, Linux distributions, and common virtualization environments; check Cisco's official driver pages for your exact OS version.
• Q: Can I use this card for link aggregation?
  A: Yes, when paired with a switch that supports 802.3ad/LACP and configured appropriately in your server or OS settings.
• Q: Do I need to restart after installing drivers?
  A: A reboot is typically recommended after driver installation to ensure the NIC initializes correctly.