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Intel

Intel 49Y7980 X520 Dual Port 10GbE Network Adapter

High-Speed Connectivity for Enterprise NetworksThe Intel X520 Network Adapter provides reliable 10 GbE connectivity for IBM System x servers. Powered by proven Intel technology, this dual-port adapter delivers full line-rate performance for high-IO intensive applications, making it ideal for ente...

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Overview

High-Speed Connectivity for Enterprise Networks

The Intel X520 Network Adapter provides reliable 10 GbE connectivity for IBM System x servers. Powered by proven Intel technology, this dual-port adapter delivers full line-rate performance for high-IO intensive applications, making it ideal for enterprise networks and data centers.

Key Features:

  • Dual-port 10 GbE connectivity.
  • Powered by reliable Intel 10 Gb Ethernet technology.
  • Full line-rate 10 Gbps performance.
  • Next-generation 10 GbE networking features.

Specifications:

  • Brand: Intel
  • Model: 49Y7980
  • Ports: Dual-Port
  • Data Transfer Rate: 10 Gbps
  • Compatibility: IBM System x

Key Features

Load balancing on multiple processors, which increases performance on multiprocessor systems by efficiently balancing network loads across processor cores

Header splits and replication in receive helps the driver focus on the relevant part of the packet without needing to parse it

Multiple queues allow packet handling without the waiting/buffer overflow, which provides efficient packet prioritization

Support for Intel Virtualization Technology (VT) with I/OAT and VMDq

Ieee 802.3X Flow Control Support

Ieee 802.1P Class Of Service/Quality Of Service

Specifications

Brand
Intel
Model
X520 Dual Port
Port Type
10GbE Network Adapter
Feature
Load Balancing
Feature
Header Splits and Replication
Feature
Multiple Queues
Feature
Intel Virtualization Technology (VT) with I/OAT and VMDq
Feature
IEEE 802.3X Flow Control Support
Feature
IEEE 802.1P Class Of Service/Quality Of Service

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Enhances multiprocessor system performance by efficiently balancing network loads across CPU cores.
  • Optimizes packet handling with header splits and replication, allowing the driver to focus on relevant data.
  • Provides efficient packet prioritization and prevents buffer overflows through the use of multiple queues.
  • Supports Intel Virtualization Technology (VT) with I/OAT and VMDq for improved virtualized environments.
  • Incorporates IEEE 802.3X Flow Control and IEEE 802.1P Class Of Service/Quality Of Service for network traffic management.

👎 Cons

  • This specific Intel X520 adapter is a dual-port 10GbE model, which may be overkill for users needing only standard Gigabit Ethernet.
  • Installation requires an available PCIe slot and some technical knowledge to configure the network adapter properly.
  • The adapter's advanced features, such as I/OAT and VMDq, primarily benefit server and virtualized environments, not typical consumer setups.
  • Compatibility with older operating systems or specific motherboard chipsets might need verification before purchase.
  • While it offers significant performance, the investment in a 10GbE infrastructure, including compatible switches and cabling, can be substantial.

Frequently Asked Questions

This adapter offers 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds, which is significantly faster than standard Gigabit Ethernet, benefiting high-bandwidth applications and server environments.
For 10GbE speeds, this adapter typically requires Cat6a or higher Ethernet cabling, or fiber optic cables, rather than older Cat5e cables.
While it can technically be installed in a desktop with a compatible PCIe slot, its features like load balancing and virtualization support are primarily designed for server and workstation environments.
The features listed suggest advanced network management capabilities that are often part of link aggregation or similar bonding technologies to enhance throughput and redundancy.
Multiple queues allow for more efficient handling and prioritization of network packets, reducing latency and preventing data bottlenecks, especially in high-traffic scenarios.

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