Description
Lenovo ThinkServer X520-DA2 PCIe 10 Gb 2-port SFP+ Ethernet Adapter by Intel
Experience a new level of networking performance in your Lenovo ThinkServer with the ThinkServer X520-DA2. This PCIe 10 Gb Ethernet adapter from Intel delivers dual-port SFP+ connectivity designed to accelerate scalable data center workloads, support heavy virtualization, and empower high-speed storage and backup operations. Built for reliability in demanding enterprise environments, the X520-DA2 combines robust hardware, proven drivers, and flexible I/O options to help your server infrastructure scale with confidence. Whether you’re consolidating virtual machines, optimizing traffic between servers and storage, or enabling fast failover in a clustered environment, this adapter is engineered to keep your network moving at the speed of business.
- Ultra-fast dual-port 10 GbE performance: Each SFP+ port delivers up to 10 gigabits per second of full-duplex bandwidth, enabling high-throughput data transfers, rapid VM live migrations, and ultra-responsive applications. The aggregated capacity supports bandwidth-hungry workloads such as virtualization, database clustering, and high-performance computing without bottlenecks.
- Intel reliability and enterprise-grade efficiency: Built on Intel’s industry-leading X520/82599 family architecture, the X520-DA2 is known for stable performance, advanced offloads, and broad compatibility with optical transceivers and DAC cables. This reliability translates into lower CPU overhead, predictable latency, and long-term driver support across major operating systems.
- Advanced virtualization features for modern data centers: The adapter supports key virtualization technologies such as SR-IOV, VMDq, and VMQ, which help isolate and accelerate network traffic for virtual machines. By offloading networking tasks from the CPU, the X520-DA2 improves VM density, reduces host CPU utilization, and enhances overall virtualization performance in private clouds and hypervisor environments.
- Flexible deployment for diverse networks: Designed to work across Lenovo ThinkServer platforms and other enterprise servers, this card accepts standard 10 GbE SFP+ optics or direct-attach copper (DAC) cables. That flexibility makes it suitable for data centers with evolving fiber infrastructure or mixed environments where different switch topologies are in use.
- Ease of integration and ongoing manageability: The X520-DA2 is conceived for simple deployment, seamless driver integration, and reliable ongoing operation. It integrates with common server and network management workflows, supports Windows Server and Linux distributions, and benefits from Lenovo and Intel driver updates that keep performance optimized over time.
Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkServer X520-DA2 PCIe 10 Gb 2-port SFP+ Ethernet Adapter by Intel
- PCIe interface: PCIe 2.0 x4
- Ports: 2 x 10 Gb SFP+ Ethernet ports
- Max throughput: up to 10 Gbps per port (20 Gbps aggregate)
- Networking standards: 10GBASE-SR/LR optics compatible (dependent on transceivers)
- Chipset and architecture: Intel Ethernet Controller X520/82599 family
- Form factor: PCIe add-in card for server expansion slots
- Compatibility: Designed for Lenovo ThinkServer systems and other enterprise servers; broad OS driver support
- Key benefits: Hardware offloads for storage and virtualization, improved VM networking performance, and scalable throughput for growing data-center workloads
How to install Lenovo ThinkServer X520-DA2
- Power down the server, unplug from power, and remove the chassis cover to access the PCIe slots.
- Identify an available PCIe x4 (or higher) slot that meets the server’s expansion requirements, and prepare the slot by removing the bracket if necessary.
- Insert the X520-DA2 card firmly into the slot until it is fully seated and secured by the slot bracket.
- Attach appropriate SFP+ optics or Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables to each port, selecting optics that match your network switch requirements and distance needs.
- Replace the chassis cover and power on the server. If required, enter BIOS/UEFI to confirm the adapter is detected and enabled in the PCIe device list.
- Install and update the proper drivers from Intel or Lenovo for your operating system (Windows Server or Linux). Reboot if prompted and configure basic networking (IP, VLANs, and 10 GbE bonding or teaming as needed) within your OS and any virtualization platform.
Frequently asked questions
- Q: What is Lenovo ThinkServer X520-DA2? A: It is a dual-port, 10 GbE SFP+ PCIe Ethernet adapter from Intel designed to upgrade networking performance in Lenovo ThinkServer systems and other enterprise servers.
- Q: What cables or transceivers do I need? A: Use standard 10 GbE SFP+ transceivers or Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables compatible with your network switch and distance requirements.
- Q: Does it support virtualization? A: Yes. The X520-DA2 includes virtualization features such as SR-IOV, VMDq, and VMQ to optimize VM networking and CPU usage.
- Q: Which operating systems are supported? A: Drivers are available for major Windows Server editions and Linux distributions; check Intel and Lenovo support pages for the latest compatible versions.
- Q: Is this card easy to install in a ThinkServer system? A: Yes. It is designed for easy installation in ThinkServer and other enterprise servers, with straightforward driver setup and configuration. Always verify compatibility with your firmware and BIOS version before installation.
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