Dell Compatible 430-4435 PCIe x8 NIC with 2x Open SFP+ Intel 82599

The Dell Compatible 430-4435 is a high-performance PCI Express x8 network interface card designed for demanding data center environments. Built around the reliable Intel 82599 chipset, this dual-port Open SFP+ NIC delivers robust 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity that accelerates virtualization, database workloads, and high-throughput storage networks. It is crafted to slot into standard servers with PCIe x8 interfaces, making it an ideal upgrade or expansion card for Dell PowerEdge servers and other enterprise-grade systems. With two Open SFP+ ports, users gain flexible fiber and copper options, enabling scalable network topologies, simplified cabling, and future-proof bandwidth that grows with your business. The card emphasizes reliability, low CPU overhead, and easy integration into existing environments, so you can deploy with confidence in both new builds and upgrades. Whether you are building a hyper-converged infrastructure, a cloud service, or a high-availability storage network, this NIC delivers the speed, adaptability, and ecosystem support you expect from enterprise-grade Intel-based networking hardware. In short, the Dell Compatible 430-4435 is a versatile, future-ready choice that blends solid performance with practical compatibility for Dell and non-Dell servers alike.

• Unmatched 10GbE performance with dual Open SFP+ ports: This NIC delivers high-throughput 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections through two Open SFP+ interfaces, offering flexible cabling choices (fiber or Direct Attach copper) and the ability to connect to multiple switches, storage networks, or aggregated links. Perfect for virtualization workloads, live migration, and high-speed data transfers, the card maintains low latency and efficient packet processing even under heavy load.
• Intel 82599 chipset for enterprise reliability: Built on the proven Intel 82599 architecture, the card benefits from mature driver support, robust RSS (Receive-Side Scaling), large send offload (LSO), and sophisticated interrupt handling. These features translate into higher effective throughput, better CPU utilization, and consistent performance across Windows and Linux environments, making it a dependable backbone for mission-critical applications.
• PCI Express x8 form factor with broad compatibility: Designed to fit PCIe x8 slots, this NIC is compatible with a wide range of modern servers, including Dell PowerEdge systems and other enterprise servers. The PCIe interface provides strong bandwidth headroom for 10GbE traffic, while backward compatibility ensures smooth integration with existing motherboards and server chassis.
• Flexible Open SFP+ connectivity for scalable networks: Two Open SFP+ ports support a variety of transceivers and DAC cables, enabling scalable, modular network architectures. Choose 10GBASE-SR/LR or DAC options to connect to switches, storage arrays, or bonded links, and reconfigure the topology as your data center evolves without replacing the NIC.
• Enterprise-grade reliability and Dell ecosystem compatibility: Built to withstand server environments, the card offers solid construction, reliable operation under load, and seamless interoperability with Dell hardware and software ecosystems. It’s an economical upgrade path for boosting network throughput, reducing bottlenecks, and enabling aggressive virtualization and data services while maintaining compatibility with Dell management tools and enterprise switches.

Technical Details of Dell Compatible 430-4435 NIC

• Get this information from the "specifications" section of the product from https://ec.synnex.com/ using product "UPC" or "SKU" as reference

How to Install Dell Compatible 430-4435

• Prepare your server: Power down the server, unplug power cables, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge. Open the chassis carefully and identify an available PCIe x8 expansion slot suitable for a full-height or low-profile card, depending on your server model.
• Insert the NIC into a PCIe slot: Remove the slot cover, align the card with the slot, and firmly seat it into the PCIe x8 connector. Ensure the retention latch snaps into place and the card is seated evenly without tilting.
• Secure and close the chassis: Fasten the PCIe bracket to the chassis to secure the card, then reassemble the server housing. Reconnect power and any previously disconnected cables, ensuring there is proper clearance for airflow around the card.
• Connect the Open SFP+ cabling: Attach your Open SFP+ transceivers or Direct Attach copper cables to the two ports. Select compatible 10GbE modules or DAC cables based on your network design and switch capabilities. Route cables to your switches or storage devices with care to minimize bend radius and ensure proper fiber polarity.
• Boot and install drivers: Power on the server and check the operating system. Install or update NIC drivers as needed from Intel, Dell, or your OS vendor. Linux users typically benefit from kernel-integrated drivers, while Windows users may need the Intel Management or vendor-specific drivers to enable optimal offloads and features.
• Configure network settings and verify connectivity: In the OS, configure the two interfaces as desired—assign IPs, set up link aggregation if applicable, and apply VLANs or QoS policies. Verify link status, perform a speed test, and ensure the NIC is visible in device managers or network management tools. Finally, connect to your network switches and confirm 10GbE throughput with sustained transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Is the Dell Compatible 430-4435 NIC compatible with Dell PowerEdge servers and other enterprise platforms?
• A: Yes. The card is designed to slot into PCIe x8 interfaces found in Dell PowerEdge servers and many other enterprise systems. It is intended to provide a stable, high-throughput 10GbE connection with flexible Open SFP+ cabling, making it suitable for virtualization, storage networks, and high-traffic workloads. As always, verify compatibility with your exact server model and BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure optimal operation.
• Q: What kind of cabling does it support?
• A: The card features two Open SFP+ ports, allowing both fiber optic transceivers (SFP+ modules) and Direct Attach copper (DAC) cables. This lets you tailor your network topology to your switches and storage devices, delivering scalable 10GbE connections with flexible cabling options.
• Q: Do I need to install special drivers for the Intel 82599 chipset?
• A: In most cases, Linux kernels include compatible drivers for Intel 82599-based adapters, and Windows environments can utilize Intel-provided or OEM drivers. For best performance, install the latest certified drivers from Intel or your operating system vendor, and configure offload and RSS settings to optimize throughput and CPU usage.
• Q: Is this NIC hot-swappable?
• A: PCIe network cards are typically hot-swappable in servers that support hot-plug PCIe devices. However, always follow your server manufacturer’s guidelines and power down procedures if you are unsure, to protect both the hardware and your data.
• Q: What are the typical use cases for the Dell 430-4435 NIC?
• A: This NIC excels in environments needing high-throughput 10GbE connections, such as virtualization hosts (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM), database backends with heavy read/write traffic, software-defined storage, and high-performance compute clusters. Its dual Open SFP+ ports and Intel 82599 chipset provide the reliability and performance that data centers rely on for scalable, low-latency networking.