Lenovo 10/25GbE iSCSI SFP28 Module

Engineered for modern data centers, the Lenovo 10/25GbE iSCSI SFP28 Module delivers scalable, high-performance storage networking through a compact, plug-in transceiver. This optical fiber SFP28 module combines 25 Gigabit Ethernet speed with iSCSI support to enable high-throughput, low-latency block storage traffic over the network. Designed to integrate seamlessly with Lenovo servers, switches, and storage arrays that feature SFP28 slots, it provides a reliable bridge between Ethernet fabric and storage I/O, expanding bandwidth for virtualization, databases, backups, and large-scale deployments. Whether you’re expanding an existing storage area network or building a new hyper-converged environment, this Lenovo iSCSI SFP28 module is built to deliver deterministic performance, straightforward deployment, and consistent data-path behavior across your data center.

• High-bandwidth 25GbE iSCSI connectivity: Experience the speed of 25 Gigabit Ethernet through an SFP28 interface, delivering significantly higher throughput for storage traffic, reduced queuing, and lower I/O latency for demanding workloads such as large database operations, virtual machine storage, and rapid backups.
• Optical fiber transceiver in a plug-in form factor: The module is designed as a compact, hot-pluggable SFP28 transceiver that snaps into compatible Lenovo hardware, enabling flexible deployment in racks without changing fabric topology. Its optical fiber design supports clean, EMI-resistant data transmission ideal for data-center environments.
• iSCSI-ready storage networking: Built to support iSCSI-based storage architectures, this module simplifies block-level storage access over Ethernet, enabling streamlined consolidation of SAN traffic alongside general network services while preserving isolation and performance for storage I/O paths.
• Lenovo-optimized reliability and compatibility: Tailored for Lenovo data-center portfolios, the module aligns with Lenovo server and switch ecosystems, helping ensure stable operation, predictable performance, and straightforward integration with Lenovo firmware and management tools across supported hardware.
• Versatile deployment for diverse workloads: Ideal for storage area networking, virtualization environments, backup and disaster recovery, and hyper-converged infrastructure, where high-bandwidth, low-latency storage traffic over 25GbE paths can unlock new levels of efficiency and scalability.

Technical Details of Lenovo 10/25GbE iSCSI SFP28 Module

• Interface: SFP28 (25GbE)
• Data Rate: 25 Gbps Ethernet
• Fiber Type: Optical fiber transceiver for high-speed data transmission
• Protocol Support: iSCSI-enabled block storage over Ethernet alongside standard Ethernet storage traffic
• Form Factor: Plug-in SFP28 optical transceiver module
• Compatibility: Designed for Lenovo data-center networking hardware with SFP28 slots, including servers, switches, and storage arrays

How to install Lenovo 10/25GbE iSCSI SFP28 Module

• Before installation, verify that your Lenovo device has an available SFP28 slot and supports 25GbE/iSCSI traffic in the intended configuration. Review your hardware documentation or Lenovo compatibility guides to confirm support.
• Prepare the transceiver: remove any protective caps from the SFP28 port and ensure the fiber connectors are clean and ready for installation. Use appropriate 25GBASE fiber optics (for example, SR or LR variants) based on your data-center fiber plan.
• Power considerations: follow your hardware vendor guidelines for hot-plugging or powering down the system if required. In many enterprise environments, SFP28 modules are hot-pluggable, but always confirm with the specific Lenovo platform's maintenance procedures before insertion.
• Install the module: align the Lenovo SFP28 module with the slot, slide it gently into place, and press firmly until it seats with a secure click. Ensure the module is fully seated to establish proper electrical and optical contact.
• Connect the fiber optic cable: attach the corresponding 25GBASE fiber optic cable to the SFP28 module, ensuring proper LC connectors are secured. Avoid excessive bending radii and verify cable integrity to prevent transmission errors.
• Network and storage configuration: once the module is recognized by the Lenovo device, configure the iSCSI target and initiator as needed. Create or adjust storage mappings, paths, and zoning to ensure storage traffic is properly isolated and prioritized within your Ethernet fabric.
• Testing and validation: power up the system if required, verify link status through the management interface, and perform baseline throughput tests to confirm the expected 25GbE performance. Validate iSCSI read/write performance and latency to ensure the deployment meets your workload requirements.
• Firmware and compatibility checks: confirm that your Lenovo device is running supported firmware that optimizes 25GbE and iSCSI operation. Apply any recommended firmware updates to maintain compatibility and performance.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Lenovo 10/25GbE iSCSI SFP28 Module used for?
  A: It provides a high-speed, 25GbE iSCSI-capable transceiver in a plug-in SFP28 form factor, enabling scalable storage networking over optical fiber for Lenovo data-center environments. It’s ideal for accelerating block storage traffic, virtualization storage paths, and SAN-extension scenarios within Lenovo deployments.
• Q: What type of fiber cables should I use with this module?
  A: The module uses standard optical fiber transceivers for 25GbE. Depending on the variant you select (such as 25GBASE-SR or 25GBASE-LR), use the corresponding multi-mode or single-mode fiber cabling with compatible LC connectors, and ensure proper terminations for best performance.
• Q: Is this module compatible with all Lenovo servers and switches?
  A: It is designed for Lenovo systems with SFP28 slots and supports iSCSI-enabled storage traffic within Lenovo’s data-center ecosystem. Always check the specific hardware compatibility matrix for your model and firmware version to ensure exact support.
• Q: How do I configure iSCSI after installing the module?
  A: After installation, access the server’s or switch’s management interface, configure the iSCSI initiator on the host and define iSCSI targets on the storage array. Establish storage paths, set up network QoS if needed, and verify the path status and throughput. Consult your storage and server documentation for precise steps tailored to your environment.
• Q: Does the module support both SR and LR variants?
  A: The 25GbE SFP28 module line typically includes different transceiver variants (e.g., SR for short-range and LR for long-range). The exact capability depends on the specific transceiver installed in the SFP28 slot. Check the product variant and specifications to confirm supported fiber reach.