Intel Ethernet Network Adapter X710-T2L for OCP 3.0 — Dual 10GbE NIC for High-Density Data Centers

Designed for modern data centers and enterprise deployments, the Intel Ethernet Network Adapter X710-T2L for OCP 3.0 delivers dependable, high-performance dual 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity in a compact, server-ready form factor. Built around the Intel X710 controller, this OCP 3.0 NIC is engineered to handle demanding workloads—from storage networks and virtualization to cloud infrastructure and bare-metal deployments—while offering robust manageability, virtualization features, and long-term driver support. Whether you are building a dense rack environment, upgrading an existing server fleet, or integrating into a hyper-converged stack, the X710-T2L helps you achieve deterministic performance with scalable, low-latency networking.

• Dual 10GbE RJ-45 copper ports (10GBASE-T) for flexible copper connectivity and simplified cable management. Each port negotiates to 10, 5, or 1 Gbps as needed, enabling gradual bandwidth upgrades without replacing existing cabling. The copper interface supports easy integration into existing network topologies, provides reliable performance over standard Category 5e/6a copper cabling, and is ideal for data centers, server rooms, and edge deployments where high-speed links are essential yet cabling practicality matters. The X710-T2L is purpose-built for OCP 3.0 deployments, delivering scalable throughput without sacrificing compatibility with legacy networks, which helps extend the life of your network investments while enabling future-proof upgrades.
• OCP 3.0 form factor with a low-profile design for dense server environments. The X710-T2L is engineered to fit in a wide range of servers that support OCP 3.0, enabling higher port density in blade and rack-mounted systems. This form factor minimizes footprint while maximizing performance-per-slot, making it a preferred choice for data centers pursuing tighter space utilization, improved airflow, and simpler cable management. With standardized backplane interfaces and Intel engineering, the card integrates smoothly into server ecosystems, reducing deployment time and lowering total cost of ownership.
• Advanced offloads and virtualization support including VMQ, RSS, VLAN offload, and TCP/IP offload to reduce CPU overhead and improve server throughput. The X710-T2L also supports virtualization features such as SR-IOV to enable multiple virtual functions, enabling cloud and virtualization platforms to achieve near-native performance for guest VMs. Data Center Bridging (DCB) capabilities help ensure deterministic performance for converged networks, while Large Send Offload (LSO) and Large Receive Offload (LRO) optimize large payload transfers. This combination makes the NIC well-suited to workloads like virtualized databases, hyperconverged storage, and high-traffic web services where consistent latency and throughput matter.
• Broad OS and driver support with strong management tools for Linux, Windows Server, and popular virtualization platforms. Intel provides enterprise-grade drivers and Intel PROSet software to simplify configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting. With robust driver updates and firmware management, administrators can maintain security, performance, and compatibility as networks evolve. The X710-T2L also supports PXE booting for network-based installations and streamlined provisioning in large-scale deployments, helping IT teams deploy new nodes quickly in bare-metal or cloud-ready environments.
• Reliable performance and long-term ecosystem support from Intel’s trusted networking portfolio. The X710-T2L is designed for enterprise reliability, with enterprise-grade drivers, ongoing firmware updates, and broad ecosystem interoperability. This translates to stable operation under heavy workloads, easier firmware and driver maintenance across a fleet, and consistent performance as your data center scales. For organizations prioritizing vendor-backed stability, predictable upgrade paths, and strong compatibility with switching gear, the X710-T2L provides a solid foundation for future-ready networking.

Technical Details of Intel Ethernet Network Adapter X710-T2L for OCP 3.0

• Product family: Intel Ethernet Network Adapter X710-T2L
• Form factor: OCP 3.0 mezzanine card (low-profile design)
• Ports: 2 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GBASE-T) RJ-45 ports
• Host interface: PCI Express 3.0 x8
• Chipset: Intel Ethernet Controller X710 family
• Aggregate bandwidth: Up to 20 Gbps theoretical total (2 ports at 10 Gbps each)
• Operating temperature range: Standard data center operating conditions (typical server environment)
• Power (approximate): Enterprise-class NICs designed to balance performance and efficiency within data center power budgets

How to install Intel Ethernet Network Adapter X710-T2L for OCP 3.0

• Prepare your server by powering down, unplugging power cables, and following anti-static procedures to prevent component damage. Remove the server cover and locate an available OCP 3.0 slot that is compatible with the X710-T2L form factor. Confirm that the server and backplane support dual 10GbE networking and that the chassis has adequate ventilation for a high-density card.
• Remove any filler plate from the slot and align the X710-T2L with the slot’s connector. Gently but firmly insert the card until it seats securely in the backplane. If your server uses a retention mechanism, engage it to lock the NIC in place according to the vendor’s guidelines. Ensure the connectors are fully engaged and that the card is stable before continuing.
• Reconnect the chassis cover, reassemble the server, and power it back on. Access the operating system to install the appropriate Intel NIC drivers. You can obtain the latest drivers and firmware from Intel’s official download pages or rely on your OS vendor’s repository for validated packages. It’s recommended to install the latest firmware for performance and security enhancements.
• Configure the NIC in the operating system. Set up the two 10GBASE-T interfaces, assign IP addresses, and implement any required network policies (VLAN tagging, NIC teaming or bonding, and traffic shaping). If you are deploying in a virtualized environment, enable and configure VMQ, SR-IOV, and any DCB-related settings per your hypervisor instructions to optimize virtual networking performance.
• Test connectivity and performance. Verify link status on both ports, run throughput tests, and validate queueing behavior under expected workloads. Monitor for any driver or firmware alerts and apply updates as needed. Document the configuration for future maintenance and scale-out planning.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Intel X710-T2L for OCP 3.0? It is a dual-port 10 Gigabit Ethernet network adapter designed in the OCP 3.0 form factor, enabling high-speed copper connectivity (10GBASE-T) in servers that support the OCP 3.0 standard. Ideal for dense data centers, virtualization, and storage-heavy workloads.
• What cable type does it use? The X710-T2L uses 10GBASE-T copper RJ-45 cables, offering flexible installation with standard Ethernet copper cabling. It supports auto-negotiation to adapt to network conditions and is compatible with common Category 5e/6a cables that meet 10GBASE-T requirements.
• Which operating systems and platforms are supported? Intel provides drivers and software for major Linux distributions and Windows Server environments, with broad support across virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper-V when used with appropriate NIC drivers and management tools.
• Do I need to update firmware and drivers? Yes. For best performance, security, and compatibility, install the latest Intel drivers and firmware from Intel’s official resources or your OS vendor’s validated packages. Regular updates help maintain reliability in evolving data center workloads.
• What deployment scenarios is this NIC suitable for? The X710-T2L is well-suited for dense server deployments, virtualization-heavy workloads, storage networks, hyper-converged infrastructures, cloud servers, and other environments requiring reliable, scalable 10 GbE connectivity with efficient offloads and robust management features.