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HP 660598-L21 Xeon E5-2620 2 GHz Processor Upgrade

HP Xeon E5-2620 processor upgrade kit delivering reliable 2 GHz six-core performance for HP ProLiant server environments.

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Overview

The HP 660598-L21 is a processor upgrade kit that brings the Intel Xeon E5-2620 to compatible HP ProLiant servers. Running at a 2 GHz base clock with six cores and Hyper-Threading for 12 total threads, the E5-2620 occupies a practical middle ground in the Xeon E5 family — capable enough for general-purpose server duties like directory services, file sharing, DNS, and light virtualization, while remaining power-efficient compared to its higher-clocked siblings. For organizations maintaining existing Gen8 infrastructure, this upgrade can extend server usefulness without requiring a full platform replacement.

As an HP-validated kit, the 660598-L21 is tested against specific ProLiant models to ensure firmware compatibility and thermal compliance. The L21 designation identifies this as a factory-integration option, so buyers should confirm whether a heatsink is included or if the existing server cooling hardware will be reused. For dual-socket ProLiant servers currently running a single processor, adding a second E5-2620 effectively doubles available compute threads, which can be a cost-effective way to scale capacity for growing workloads on proven hardware.

Specifications

Manufacturer Part Number
660598-L21
Processor
Intel Xeon E5-2620
Base Clock Speed
2 GHz
Core Count
6 (Hexa-core)
Threads
12 (Hyper-Threading)
Kit Type
L21 (Factory Integration)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Six cores with Hyper-Threading provide 12 threads for solid multi-tasking in server environments.
  • Low power consumption relative to higher-clocked Xeon options makes it suitable for power-conscious deployments.
  • HP-validated processor upgrade ensures compatibility and supported operation in target ProLiant servers.
  • The E5-2620 is a cost-effective processor choice for general-purpose server workloads that do not require peak clock speeds.

👎 Cons

  • 2 GHz base clock speed is modest and may limit performance in single-threaded or latency-sensitive applications.
  • Limited to Sandy Bridge or Ivy Bridge era platforms, offering no forward compatibility with newer server generations.
  • The L21 kit format may not include a heatsink, requiring confirmation that your server chassis already has the appropriate thermal solution.
  • Six cores is at the lower end for modern virtualization or container workloads that benefit from higher core density.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 660598-L21 is designed for specific HP ProLiant Gen8 servers. The L21 suffix indicates this is a factory-integration kit — verify compatibility with your exact server model using HP's QuickSpecs documentation.
The L21 designation indicates a factory-installed processor option, while B21 denotes a customer-installable kit. Functionally the processor is the same, but packaging and included accessories may differ — L21 kits may not include retail-boxed heatsinks if the server already has one installed.
The Xeon E5-2620 is a six-core processor with Hyper-Threading, providing 12 threads total for multi-threaded server workloads.
Yes, the E5-2620 supports multi-socket operation. Both sockets must use the same processor model for proper dual-CPU functionality.

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