QNAP Single-Port 2.5 GBE Network Expansion Card

The QNAP Single-Port 2.5 GBE Network Expansion Card is your upgrade path to faster, more reliable local networking for NAS drives, desktops, and home offices. Designed to unlock bandwidth beyond traditional gigabit speeds, this PCIe expansion card delivers a bright improvement in file transfers, backups, multimedia streaming, and virtualization tasks. Whether you’re coordinating large media libraries, collaborating on high-resolution projects, or simply enjoying smoother everyday browsing and network activities, this card provides a seamless, cost-efficient upgrade to 2.5 Gbps networking. It’s engineered to pair perfectly with QNAP NAS devices and QTS environments while staying compatible with Windows and Linux systems, ensuring broad flexibility for mixed-workload environments. The single-port design keeps your PCIe lane usage minimal, while its robust build quality and reliable electrical signaling help maintain stable connections under load. With both full-height and low-profile brackets included, you can install this expansion card in a wide range of chassis—from compact NAS enclosures to standard desktop towers—without compromising space or airflow. The 2.5 GBE interface is compatible with existing Cat5e and Cat6 cabling, enabling a straightforward upgrade path without a costly cabling overhaul. For content creators, small businesses, and power users who demand faster access to stored data, this QNAP network expansion card translates into noticeably quicker backups, accelerated media editing workflows, and a more responsive network environment—without sacrificing compatibility or ease of use.

• 2.5 Gbps performance delivers significantly faster file transfers, backups, and media streaming compared with traditional 1 Gbps NICs, helping you move large datasets and 4K media with ease.
• Single-port PCIe expansion adds a high-speed network channel without consuming multiple slots, making it ideal for compact NAS enclosures, media servers, and workstations.
• RJ-45 2.5GBASE-T port supports auto-negotiation and full-duplex operation, compatible with existing Ethernet cables (Cat5e/Cat6) and standard network gear for simple integration.
• QNAP-optimized and OS-friendly designed for QTS/NAS environments, while offering broad compatibility with Windows and Linux to accommodate diverse workflows.
• Flexible installation includes both full-height and low-profile brackets, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of chassis—from sleek NAS chassis to full-tower desktops.

Technical Details of QNAP Single-Port 2.5 GBE Network Expansion Card

• Interface: PCIe x1 (works with PCIe 2.0/3.0 slots)
• Port: 1x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 (2.5GBASE-T)
• Supported OS/Environments: QNAP QTS/NAS; Windows; Linux (drivers available as needed)
• Form Factor: Includes both full-height and low-profile brackets for flexible installation
• Power and Signaling: Standard Ethernet signaling with auto-negotiation and flow control for stable throughput

How to install QNAP Single-Port 2.5 GBE Network Expansion Card

• Power off your device and unplug it from power to ensure safe installation.
• Open the chassis to expose an available PCIe slot (preferably PCIe x1).
• Insert the QNAP 2.5 GBE expansion card firmly into the PCIe slot and secure it with a screw.
• Attach the appropriate bracket for your system (low-profile or full-height) and reassemble the chassis.
• Power on the system. If required, install drivers through the OS or allow QTS NAS to auto-detect the new NIC.
• Configure the new 2.5G connection in your NAS or OS network settings, assigning IPs or enabling DHCP as needed for your network.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What speeds does this card support? A: The card provides a single 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, delivering up to 2.5 Gbps throughput depending on the capabilities of connected devices and cabling.
• Q: Is this card compatible with my QNAP NAS? A: It’s designed for QNAP NAS devices that support PCIe network expansion. Check your NAS model’s PCIe compatibility and supported NIC cards in the manual or on QNAP’s support resources.
• Q: Do I need drivers? A: In QTS NAS environments, the card is typically plug-and-play. Windows and Linux installations may require drivers provided by QNAP or the NIC vendor.
• Q: Can I reuse existing cables? A: Yes. 2.5GBASE-T works with common Cat5e and Cat6 cables. For optimal reliability, Cat5e or higher is recommended, especially over longer cable runs.
• Q: Can this card be used in a desktop PC? A: Yes, as long as there is a compatible PCIe x1 slot and adequate space for the bracket. It’s a great upgrade for home offices, game rigs, or small workstations needing faster network access.