Intel 500 Series Network Adapters

Overview
ProductRatingMost Used ByProduct SummaryStarting Price
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Score 9.6 out of 10
N/A
The Intel 500 Series network adapters are backward compatible with existing 1000BASE-T networks, simplifying the transition to 10Gb Ethernet when more bandwidth is needed. Available in both PCIe and OCP form factors. Available models include the X550, the X540, and the X520.N/A
Pricing
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
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Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
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Free/Freemium Version
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Premium Consulting/Integration Services
No
Entry-level Setup FeeNo setup fee
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Community Pulse
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Considered Both Products
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
We previously tried using Broadcom and a few unbranded cards. We had issues with Linux compatibility with the Broadcom. The generic had high latency with lower than advertised bandwidth and were prone to failing.
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
We tried using Broadcom before buying Intel, but we had driver issues with our Linux servers which were a deal-breaker for us. Never had any driver issues after switching to Intel
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
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 …
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
We've used a number of different brands and keep coming back to Intel. We've had a number of stability issues with various Broadcom NICs usually starting after installing a firmware update. Intel provides a more stable platform, which is key for our business.
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
I've used dozens of network adapters over the years, with a variety of operating systems. OS driver support can vary massively. If there's one manufacturer that stands out as generally being trouble-free, it's Intel. The X540 is no different here, and just works out of the box …
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
The Intel X540 is used especially in entry-level solutions within 2-node-clusters (e.g. small enterprises or branch offices). In this scenario the price/performance is perfect. As soon as more nodes are used or high-performance requirements have to be met for the storage …
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Intel's price was a bit higher, but the long product lifecycle, overall reliability and manageability made it the clear winner for us. The others do perform well, but when an upgrade is needed I trust products that have been supported, will continue to receive support, and are …
Chose Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
We select the Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X540 because of is high performance.
Top Pros
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User Ratings
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Likelihood to Recommend
9.6
(11 ratings)
User Testimonials
Intel 500 Series Network Adapters
Likelihood to Recommend
Intel Corporation
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.
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Pros
Intel Corporation
  • 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.
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Cons
Intel Corporation
  • Could be cheaper
  • Gets extremely hot
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Alternatives Considered
Intel Corporation
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.
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Return on Investment
Intel Corporation
  • 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
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