Cisco Unified Computing System Adapters (UCS VICs) vs. Intel 500 Series Network Adapters

In general, the company has had significant improvements, where the software has allowed us to have a more fluid and, above all, stable communication system. For many things, I would recommend it, from its level of efficiency to how easy it can be to manipulate it. With a simple implementation. Much faster and cleaner service.

Incentivized

Network upgrades - this is a solid, tested, well-supported NIC that does the job. If you need connectivity in a Cat5e or Cat6 building, this is your go-to. We have used it in self-built storage and servers for some time, added it to increase capacity in vendor-built storage and servers, and have upgraded higher-end PCs with this NIC in order to gain redundancy and increased performance.

Incentivized

• Easy Installation, Migration and At A Glance Resource Monitoring
• Enhanced Server Virtualization and Systems Integration
• Reduction Of Bare Metal Servers
• Network Load Distribution

Incentivized

• Uses RJ45 ports, allowing you to use existing Cat6/7 infrastructure.
• Widely supported by OSs, as to be expected with Intel adapters.
• Relatively low cost upgrade for a massive speed boost.

Incentivized

• High product price and warranty service.
• Official product documentation can be improved.

Incentivized

• Could be cheaper
• Gets extremely hot

Incentivized

When using UCS B-Series, there is no real other choice. For implementations leveraging UCS C-Series, we evaluated based on what connectivity is available, the power of the VIC's really comes when connecting to a UCS Fabric Interconnect, though they can be used standalone. When using standalone, unless implementing to increase the number of physical ports, there are more cost effective options such as the Intel X540.

Incentivized

I've also supported Broadcom network adapters, as well as cheaper solutions from StarTech. Broadcom typically costs more and doesn't have any advantages for our applications. The StarTech ones are cheaper with fewer support options. Intel is the way to go for CAT6 10GbE adapters. The balance of reliability, driver support, ease of use, and compatibility is excellent.

Incentivized

• Data center enhancement. To scale up new UCS servers, manage VMs, physical servers in a unified way and reduce maintenance time and expenses.

Incentivized

• It has enabled us to affordably moved to 10gig for those who need it
• it will enable us to affordably move the HQ network to 10gig in the near future
• It has simplified and helped us standardize on a NIC across all device types except laptops

Incentivized