StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card with Intel I225-V

The StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card is a high-performance upgrade designed to dramatically boost your computer’s networking capabilities. Built around the reliable Intel I225-V controller, this dual-port NIC delivers multi-gigabit Ethernet that can handle demanding workloads, including large file transfers, media streaming, and bandwidth-intensive applications. Whether you’re outfitting a workstation, optimizing a home lab, or upgrading a desktop for gaming and content creation, this 2-port PCIe network card makes it easy to unlock faster, more stable connections without replacing your existing motherboard or network gear.

• Enhance bandwidth with dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, enabling faster transfers to NAS, servers, and other devices on your network for smoother backups, media editing, and multitask workflows.
• Designed around the Intel I225-V controller, known for solid throughput, low latency, and reliable performance in busy network environments.
• NBASE-T compliant 2.5GBASE-T technology lets you take advantage of higher speeds over standard copper cabling (Cat5e/6/6a), making it a future-ready upgrade without new cabling requirements.
• PCIe interface provides a straightforward installation into most desktops and workstations, freeing up expansion options while preserving PCIe lanes for other devices.
• Dual-port configuration supports versatile networking setups, including link aggregation (where supported by your switch or server) and dedicated traffic separation for improved performance and reliability.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card

• Product: StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card
• Interface: PCIe
• Ports: 2 × 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45
• Controller: Intel I225-V
• Standards: NBASE-T 2.5GBASE-T
• Form factor: PCIe network card suitable for standard desktop expansion slots
• Notes: Designed for reliable multi-gigabit Ethernet performance with dual-port flexibility

How to install StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5G NBASE-T PCIe Network Card

• Power down your computer, unplug it from the wall, and open the case to access the PCIe expansion slots.
• Identify an available PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, or x16) that has enough clearance for the card and any adjacent components.
• Remove the slot cover if needed and insert the StarTech NIC firmly into the PCIe slot until it is seated and aligned.
• Secure the card to the chassis with a screw to prevent movement and reassemble the computer case.
• Reconnect power, boot the system, and allow the operating system to detect the new hardware. Install any required drivers from StarTech or Intel to ensure optimal performance of the I225-V controller.
• Connect your network cables to the two 2.5GBASE-T RJ-45 ports and verify link status via the motherboard or NIC LEDs, then perform a network throughput test to confirm the upgraded performance.

Frequently asked questions

• What is 2.5G NBASE-T?
  2.5G NBASE-T refers to the 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet standard that uses copper cabling to provide up to 2.5 gigabits per second. It offers a practical speed boost over traditional 1G Ethernet while still supporting existing Cat5e/6/6a cables in many setups.
• What does a dual-port NIC buy me?
  Two independent 2.5G Ethernet ports give you more flexibility for traffic separation, NAS access, backups, and multi-device streaming. In networks that support link aggregation or practical traffic segmentation, you can achieve higher total throughput and improved reliability.
• Which controller powers this card?
  Intel I225-V is the integrated controller for this StarTech NIC, known for solid performance and broad driver support across common operating systems.
• Do I need special cabling or switches?
  2.5GBASE-T works over standard copper Ethernet cabling such as Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6a. To use bonded or aggregated links, you’ll need network equipment (switches or servers) that supports link aggregation and compatible NICs.
• Is this card compatible with both desktops and workstations?
  Yes, the PCIe interface is designed for most standard desktop and workstation motherboards with available PCIe slots, enabling an easy upgrade path without changing the rest of your system.
• What operating systems are supported?
  The card uses the Intel I225-V family and StarTech engineering to provide driver support for typical environments. For best results, consult the latest driver availability from StarTech or Intel to ensure compatibility with your specific OS version.