StarTech.com 1-Port 2.5Gbps PCI Express PoE Network Card with Intel I225-V

The StarTech.com 1-Port 2.5Gbps PCI Express PoE Network Card is the ultimate upgrade for users who demand higher bandwidth, reliable Ethernet connectivity, and integrated power over Ethernet in a single, compact PCIe card. Powered by the advanced Intel I225-V Ethernet controller, this NIC delivers true multi-gigabit performance (2.5Gbps) while minimizing CPU load and enabling smooth operation for demanding workloads such as network-attached storage, virtualization, surveillance systems, and high-speed workgroup file transfers. The design also includes PoE+ support (802.3af/at) and a SATA-powered power delivery mechanism, letting you power compatible PoE devices directly from your PC’s PSU. This combination of data speed, power delivery, and simple installation makes it an ideal choice for home offices, small businesses, and enthusiast setups seeking a reliable, future-proof connectivity upgrade.

Whether you are upgrading an existing workstation or building a compact, purpose-driven PC, this StarTech NIC brings multi-gig connectivity to a single PCIe slot with a slim footprint. The Intel I225-V chipset is renowned for high throughput with low CPU utilization, which translates into better performance for data-heavy tasks, streaming, backup operations, and server-like workloads. In addition to raw speed, the card supports industry-standard features such as VLAN tagging, jumbo frames, and offloading capabilities, enabling more efficient network traffic handling and improved overall system responsiveness. With PoE+ on the RJ-45 port, you can deploy PoE devices like IP cameras, access points, or VoIP phones without a separate power injector, reducing cable clutter and simplifying installation.

• 2.5Gbps Ethernet with Intel I225-V: Experience significantly faster network transfers, backups, and media streaming with true multi-gigabit capabilities while maintaining excellent compatibility with existing Gigabit networks. The I225-V is designed for high efficiency and robust performance in a desktop, workstation, or small server environment.
• 802.3af/at PoE+ on a single RJ-45 port: Power compatible PoE devices directly through the network card, eliminating the need for extra PoE injectors or wall adapters for supported devices. This is ideal for IP cameras, access points, and VoIP phones in compact deployments.
• SATA-powered PoE design: The PoE power is supplied via a standard SATA power connector from your PC’s power supply, enabling a clean, cable-friendly installation without an external power brick for PoE devices.
• PCIe x1 form factor with flexible brackets: Fits into most desktop and small-form-factor systems with a PCIe slot, and comes with both full-height and low-profile brackets to suit various chassis configurations.
• Easy installation with broad OS support: Plug-and-play capability accompanied by drivers and utilities for Windows and Linux ensures quick setup and reliable operation across common server and workstation environments, including VLAN and jumbo frame support for optimized network performance.

Techncial Details of StarTech.com 1-Port 2.5Gbps PCI Express PoE Network Card

• Chipset: Intel I225-V Ethernet Controller for high-performance 2.5Gbps networking
• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x1 host connection
• Ports: 1 x RJ-45 Ethernet port with 2.5Gbps speed and PoE+ support (802.3af/at)
• PoE Power: SATA-powered PoE supply via a 15-pin SATA power connector
• Form Factor: Supports full-height and low-profile brackets for versatile chassis compatibility
• Jumbo Frames: Supports large frame sizes to enhance throughput for heavy data transfers
• VLAN and Offloads: Includes VLAN tagging and network offload features to reduce CPU usage
• Operating System Support: Compatible with Windows and Linux distributions (drivers provided by StarTech)
• Warranty: Backed by StarTech’s standard warranty for peace of mind

How to install StarTech.com 1-Port 2.5Gbps PCI Express PoE Network Card

• Power down the computer and unplug the power cord. Open the chassis to access the PCIe slots.
• Locate an available PCIe x1 slot and remove the corresponding slot cover on the back of the case.
• Insert the StarTech NIC into the PCIe x1 slot, ensuring a secure and full connection. Fasten the bracket to the chassis with a screw if required.
• Connect a standard SATA power cable from your PSU to the card’s SATA power header to enable PoE power delivery.
• Close the case, plug in the system, and power it on. Install the latest drivers from StarTech’s website or rely on your operating system’s native drivers if supported. Configure network settings as needed (IP, VLANs, and PoE requirements) and verify link status.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Does this card provide PoE power to connected devices? A: Yes. The RJ-45 port supports PoE+ (802.3af/at) and is powered via the SATA power connection from your PSU, enabling compatible devices to receive power through the network cable.
• Q: What kind of performance can I expect? A: The card delivers up to 2.5Gbps Ethernet speeds on a single RJ-45 port, with features such as VLAN tagging and jumbo frames to optimize throughput for data-intensive applications and virtualization workloads.
• Q: Do I need any external PoE adapters? A: No external PoE injectors are required for PoE devices; power is supplied through the SATA-powered connection built into the card setup.
• Q: Which operating systems are supported? A: The StarTech NIC is designed for Windows and Linux environments, with drivers and utilities available from StarTech’s support site. Windows and Linux distributions commonly used in servers and workstations are supported.
• Q: Is there a driver CD included? A: Typically, StarTech provides digital drivers on their website. The installation wizard will guide you through driver installation, and you can download the latest drivers for your exact OS version from StarTech’s support portal.