Intel X550T2 Ethernet Converged Network Adapter - 2-Port 10GbE PCIe 3.0 x 16 - 10GBase-T with NBASE-T
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Product Features
Technical Overview
Built on Intel's X550 chipset architecture, this network adapter provides native 10GbE performance over standard twisted-pair cabling. The PCIe 3.0 interface delivers up to 8.0GT/s throughput, ensuring minimal latency for network-intensive workloads.
Each of the two RJ-45 ports supports 10GBase-T networking with automatic negotiation down to 1GbE speeds. The adapter implements NBASE-T technology, enabling 2.5GbE and 5GbE operation over existing CAT5e cabling infrastructure.
Relevant factors for this section include Chipset Manufacturer, Chipset Model, Features, Host Interface. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
A strong technical summary explains how the product's interfaces, hardware profile, and operating characteristics work together in real deployment. Buyers often need this context to confirm compatibility with existing devices, expected performance in daily use, and whether installation will be straightforward for IT staff or end users.
Key Product Advantages
This Intel adapter combines enterprise-grade networking features with practical deployment flexibility. The single-chip solution integrates both MAC and PHY components, reducing power consumption and thermal output while maintaining full 10GbE performance.
Virtualization Support
Supports flexible I/O virtualization with port partitioning and quality of service (QoS) capabilities for up to 64 virtual ports, enabling efficient resource allocation in virtualized environments.
- Port partitioning
- QoS management
- 64 virtual ports
Cabling Flexibility
Works with standard CAT6a cabling for 10GbE operation and supports NBASE-T technology for 2.5GbE and 5GbE speeds over existing CAT5e infrastructure, protecting cabling investments.
- CAT6a for 10GbE
- CAT5e for 2.5/5GbE
- RJ-45 connectors
Deployment / Use Cases
The Intel X550T2 adapter is engineered for server deployment in data center environments where reliable 10GbE connectivity is essential. Its low-power design and flexible bracket options make it suitable for both rack-mounted servers and space-constrained configurations.
Ideal for virtualization hosts, storage servers, and high-performance computing nodes, this adapter provides the network bandwidth needed for modern applications while maintaining compatibility with existing network infrastructure. The plug-and-play functionality ensures straightforward installation in supported server platforms.
Relevant factors for this section include Chipset Manufacturer, Chipset Model, Features, Host Interface. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Data Center Networking
Provides cost-effective 10GbE connectivity for server-to-server and server-to-storage communications, reducing network bottlenecks in virtualized and cloud environments.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Enables gradual migration to 10GbE networking while maintaining backward compatibility with 1GbE equipment, protecting existing investments in switches and cabling.
What's in the Box
The package includes everything needed for immediate deployment in standard server environments.
Package contents include Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550 Low-profile Bracket, Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550. These included items support setup, installation, and immediate deployment without needing to source the core bundled accessories separately.
Highlights
- Dual-port 10GbE network adapter with Intel X550 chipset
- PCI Express 3.0 x16 host interface for maximum throughput
- 10GBase-T support over standard twisted-pair cabling
- NBASE-T technology enables 2.5GbE and 5GbE over CAT5e
- Backward compatible with existing 1000BASE-T networks
- Single-chip solution with integrated MAC and PHY
- Supports up to 64 virtual ports with I/O virtualization
- Full-height/low-profile bracket for flexible server deployment
- Plug-and-play installation for straightforward setup
- Environmentally friendly design and manufacturing
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Intel Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | X550T2 |
| Brand Name | Intel |
| Product Series | X550 |
| Product Model | X550-T2 |
| Product Name | Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550 |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | 10Gigabit Ethernet Card |
| Technical Information | |
| Chipset Manufacturer | Intel |
| Chipset Model | X550 |
| Features | Plug and Play |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express 3.0 x16 |
| Total Number of Ports | 2 |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 2 |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 10 Gbit/s |
| Network & Communication | |
| Network Technology | 10GBase-T |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Bracket Height | Full-height/Low-profile |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550 Low-profile Bracket |
| Device Supported | Server |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
User Manual
FAQ
What type of network cabling does this Intel adapter support?
The Intel X550T2 adapter supports standard twisted-pair cabling, specifically CAT6a for full 10GbE performance at up to 100 meters. It also implements NBASE-T technology, allowing 2.5GbE and 5GbE operation over existing CAT5e cabling infrastructure, providing flexibility for network upgrades without requiring complete cabling replacement.
How many network ports does this adapter provide?
This Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter features two RJ-45 ports, each capable of 10GbE data transfer rates. Both ports support 10GBase-T networking technology and include backward compatibility with 1GbE networks, allowing simultaneous connections to multiple network segments or devices from a single adapter.
What PCIe slot is required for this network adapter?
The adapter requires a PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot for optimal performance. The PCIe 3.0 interface delivers up to 8.0GT/s throughput, ensuring sufficient bandwidth for both ports operating at full 10GbE speeds simultaneously. The card is compatible with both full-height and low-profile server configurations through the included dual-height bracket.
Does this adapter support virtualization environments?
Yes, the Intel X550T2 includes advanced I/O virtualization capabilities that support port partitioning and quality of service (QoS) management for up to 64 virtual ports. This feature enables efficient resource allocation in virtualized server environments, allowing network traffic from multiple virtual machines to be managed through a single physical adapter with appropriate bandwidth guarantees.
What is NBASE-T technology and how does it benefit my network?
NBASE-T is a networking standard that enables intermediate speeds of 2.5GbE and 5GbE over existing CAT5e cabling. This Intel adapter implements NBASE-T technology, allowing organizations to upgrade network performance beyond 1GbE without replacing their current cabling infrastructure. This provides a cost-effective migration path to higher network speeds while protecting existing cabling investments.
What type of servers is this network adapter designed for?
The Intel X550T2 is engineered specifically for server deployment in data center environments. It includes server-optimized features such as I/O virtualization support, low-power operation, and flexible bracket options for both full-height and low-profile server configurations. The adapter is ideal for virtualization hosts, storage servers, high-performance computing nodes, and other applications requiring reliable 10GbE connectivity.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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