Intel Gigabit ET2 Quad Port Network Card Adapter

Overview

The Intel E1G44ET2BLK is a quad-port Gigabit Ethernet network adapter designed to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity for servers with PCI Express 2.0 slots. Each of its four ports supports data transfer rates up to 1000 Mbps, making it well suited for handling large file transfers, database operations, and multiple user sessions without network slowdowns. Its compatibility with virtualization platforms like VMware ESXi, Linux, and Windows Server ensures efficient network traffic management in virtualized environments.

Key features

• Four Gigabit Ethernet ports that enable simultaneous high-speed connections for multiple devices or virtual machines
• PCI Express 2.0 interface delivering sufficient bandwidth to support heavy network traffic without bottlenecks
• Virtual Machine Device Queues (VMDq) that optimize packet delivery to virtual machines, reducing CPU overhead and improving performance
• Intel I/O Acceleration Technology that lowers latency and accelerates data movement for workloads requiring real-time responsiveness such as VoIP and remote desktop services
• Support for common network protocols including TCP/IP and VLAN tagging, allowing seamless integration into existing network infrastructures
• Includes a low-profile bracket to accommodate installation in slim or dense rack-mounted server chassis
• Broad operating system compatibility with Windows Server, major Linux distributions, and VMware ESXi for versatile deployment options

Key specs

• Network ports: 4 x Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps each)
• Interface: PCI Express 2.0
• Supported protocols: TCP/IP, VLAN tagging
• Virtualization support: Virtual Machine Device Queues (VMDq)
• Acceleration technology: Intel I/O Acceleration Technology
• Form factor: Full-height with included low-profile bracket
• Compatible operating systems: Windows Server, Linux distributions, VMware ESXi

Connectivity and compatibility

This network adapter fits into any server with a PCI Express 2.0 slot and supports four independent Gigabit Ethernet connections. Its broad protocol support and virtualization features make it a flexible choice for diverse network environments, from small business file servers to data center virtualization hosts. The included low-profile bracket ensures it can be installed in both standard and slim server chassis without issue.

Performance and reliability

Designed to handle demanding network workloads, the adapter’s VMDq and Intel I/O Acceleration Technology reduce CPU load and latency, which is critical for applications like real-time analytics and voice communications. Its robust design and compatibility with major server operating systems ensure stable and consistent network performance in professional IT environments.

Ideal uses and environments

This network card is a strong choice for IT professionals managing virtualized servers, departmental file servers, or data center racks that require multiple high-speed Ethernet connections. It fits well in setups where efficient network traffic distribution and low latency are essential, such as virtualization hosts running VMware ESXi or Linux-based servers supporting multiple users and services.