If you’re looking for the best 25GbE NICs for 2026 that can boost your network performance, I recommend checking out options like Mellanox ConnectX-4 and ConnectX-5, Intel E810 controllers, and Vogzone models. These cards support dual SFP28 ports, advanced offloading features, and seamless compatibility with various systems. They’re ideal for high-speed data centers, virtualization, and enterprise workloads. Keep exploring, and you’ll find detailed insights on how each model can elevate your network capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Highlights top 25GbE NIC models featuring advanced chipsets like Mellanox and Intel for high-speed data transfer.
- Focuses on compatibility with various systems, media types, and form factors for flexible deployment.
- Emphasizes performance features such as RDMA, jumbo frames, and offloading for low latency and high throughput.
- Covers driver support, management tools, and firmware updates ensuring reliable long-term operation.
- Provides insights on media options, port configurations, and cabling considerations to optimize network performance.
| 25GbE Dual-SFP28 PCIe Network Card with Mellanox |  | High-Performance Scalability | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RoCE, iSCSI, FCoE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 10/25GbE PCIe Dual SFP28 Ethernet Network Card |  | Enterprise Ready | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8/x16 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 25GbE Network Card with Mellanox ConnectX-4 Chipset |  | Versatile Compatibility | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, iSCSI, NVGRE, VXLAN | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Vogzone 25GbE PCIe Network Card with Dual Ports |  | Reliable Workhorse | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe v3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, iSCSI, FCoE, RDMA | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox ConnectX-4 Lx |  | Advanced Virtualization | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Vogzone 25Gb PCIe NIC Ethernet Card with Dual Ports |  | Next-Gen Connectivity | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe v4.0 x8/x16 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 25GbE Network Card with Mellanox ConnectX-4 PCIe Adapter |  | Seamless Integration | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ethernet Network Card with SFP28 PCIe 4.0 |  | Cutting-Edge Speed | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 4.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox MCX512A-ACAT |  | Data Center Optimized | Ports: Dual SFP28 ports | Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8 | Protocol Support: 25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
25GbE Dual-SFP28 PCIe Network Card with Mellanox
If you’re looking to upgrade your data center’s network performance, the GbE Dual-SFP28 PCIe Network Card with Mellanox is an excellent choice, especially for virtualization and high-throughput applications. It features the Mellanox ConnectX-4 chipset, supporting dual 25GbE ports on a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface. This card delivers fast, reliable data transfer at 1, 10, or 25 Gbps, reducing host CPU load and improving server utilization. Its advanced capabilities include iPXE, DPDK, Jumbo Frames, FCoE, and RDMA, making it versatile for modern network demands. Overall, it simplifies cabling and enhances scalability, ensuring your network stays ahead.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RoCE, iSCSI, FCoE
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, Windows Server
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Virtualization offload
- Form Factor:Full-height/low-profile
- Additional Feature:Supports FCoE and RDMA
- Additional Feature:Dual-SFP28 ports
- Additional Feature:ConnectX-4 controller
10/25GbE PCIe Dual SFP28 Ethernet Network Card
The 25GbE PCIe Dual SFP28 Ethernet Network Card stands out as an ideal choice for users seeking high-performance networking in demanding environments. Equipped with the Mellanox ConnectX-4 chipset, it supports RDMA, offloading CPU tasks, reducing latency, and minimizing packet loss through end-to-end QoS and congestion control. Its dual 25Gbps ports auto-negotiate between 25Gbps, 10Gbps, and 1Gbps speeds, ensuring flexible, high throughput data transfer. Compatible with PCIe 3.0 x8/x16 slots and a variety of cabling options, it suits data centers, workstations, and high-performance systems. Proper hardware and firmware updates optimize its reliable, high-speed network performance.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8/x16
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Virtualization offload
- Form Factor:Full-height/low-profile
- Additional Feature:Supports multiple cabling options
- Additional Feature:Compatible with Windows/Unix/Linux
- Additional Feature:End-to-end QoS and congestion control
25GbE Network Card with Mellanox ConnectX-4 Chipset
For those seeking high-speed Ethernet connectivity with proven reliability, the 25GbE Network Card featuring the Mellanox ConnectX-4 chipset stands out as an excellent choice. It offers dual-SFP28 ports supporting data rates up to 25Gbps, compatible with fiber, DAC, and AOC media options. Built on PCIe 3.0 x8, it supports a wide range of protocols, including iSCSI, IPsec, VXLAN, and NVGRE, ensuring versatile deployment. Its robust features include VLAN tagging, priority flow control, and virtualization support with VMDq and SR-IOV. Designed for demanding environments, it operates efficiently within temperatures of 0-55°C, making it ideal for high-performance servers.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, iSCSI, NVGRE, VXLAN
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Virtualization offload
- Form Factor:Standard, low-profile
- Additional Feature:Supports environmental monitoring
- Additional Feature:Supports VLAN tagging
- Additional Feature:Includes acceleration software
Vogzone 25GbE PCIe Network Card with Dual Ports
Vogzone’s 25GbE PCIe Network Card with Dual Ports stands out as an ideal choice for data centers and enterprise environments that demand reliable, high-speed connections. Featuring the Broadcom BCM57414B controller, it supports flexible speeds—1GbE, 10GbE, and 25GbE—via dual SFP28 ports. Its PCIe v3.0 interface guarantees efficient data transfer, while advanced offloads like TCP/IP checksum and Large Send Offload enhance performance. Compatible with Windows, Linux, VMware, and more, it’s versatile across platforms. The package includes a low-profile bracket, making installation easy. This card delivers high stability and throughput, perfect for demanding network environments.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe v3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, iSCSI, FCoE, RDMA
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Offloads
- Form Factor:Low-profile, full-height
- Additional Feature:Broadcom BCM57414B controller
- Additional Feature:Supports Wake-on-LAN
- Additional Feature:Low-profile bracket included
Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox ConnectX-4 Lx
If you’re seeking a high-performance NIC compatible with a wide range of operating systems, the Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox ConnectX-4 Lx delivers exceptional scalability and speed. It features dual SFP28 ports supporting 1GbE, 10GbE, and 25GbE connections, perfect for demanding data centers. With a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, it ensures rapid data transfer and backward compatibility. The card supports advanced features like RDMA, Jumbo Frames, SR-IOV, and VMDq, boosting virtualization and network efficiency. Plus, its broad OS support—including Windows, Linux, VMware, and FreeBSD—makes deployment straightforward, making it a versatile choice for high-performance networking needs.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Offloads
- Form Factor:Low-profile, full-height
- Additional Feature:Supports IPsec offloading
- Additional Feature:Supports iSCSI and Jumbo Frames
- Additional Feature:Virtualization with SR-IOV
Vogzone 25Gb PCIe NIC Ethernet Card with Dual Ports
The Vogzone 25Gb PCIe NIC Ethernet Card with Dual Ports stands out as an ideal choice for data centers and enterprise servers seeking high-speed, reliable network connectivity. It features dual SFP28 ports supporting 1GbE, 10GbE, and 25GbE, offering flexible connectivity options. Powered by the Intel E810-XXVAM2 controller, it delivers excellent performance, stability, and advanced offloading capabilities like traffic management, load balancing, and QoS. Supporting PCIe v4.0, it guarantees fast data transfer. Compatibility spans Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, VMware, and UEFI systems. This card is perfect for high-throughput environments requiring low latency and versatile multi-protocol support.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe v4.0 x8/x16
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Offloads
- Form Factor:Standard, low-profile
- Additional Feature:Supports PCIe v4.0
- Additional Feature:Supports NFS protocol
- Additional Feature:Supports DCB and PXE boot
25GbE Network Card with Mellanox ConnectX-4 PCIe Adapter
For those seeking a reliable high-performance network upgrade, the GbE Network Card with Mellanox ConnectX-4 PCIe Adapter stands out thanks to its dual-SFP28 ports and PCIe 3.0 x8 interface. It supports 1, 10, and 25GbE connections, making it versatile for virtualization and high-speed data transfer. Compatibility is broad, covering Windows, Linux, VMware, and more. Advanced features like RDMA, jumbo frames, and FCoE optimize performance and efficiency. Installation is straightforward with driver support on multiple platforms, and the product comes with a solid warranty and lifetime support from LR LINK. It’s a reliable choice for modern, demanding network environments.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, VXLAN
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, Citrix
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Virtualization offloads
- Form Factor:Standard, low-profile
- Additional Feature:Supports direct connection tech
- Additional Feature:Supports iPXE booting
- Additional Feature:Compatible with VMware/Windows
Ethernet Network Card with SFP28 PCIe 4.0
Choosing an Ethernet network card with SFP28 and PCIe 4.0 is essential for those seeking high-performance connectivity in enterprise and data center environments. This card features two SFP28 ports supporting 25GbE, along with a PCIe 4.0 x8 interface for maximum throughput and low latency. Powered by the Intel E810 controller, it handles data rates of 25, 10, and 1 GbE per port and supports jumbo frames up to 9.5KB. Compatibility with DACs, optical modules, and AOCs offers flexible connectivity options. It supports RDMA, RoCEv2, SR-IOV, PXE, and DPDK, making it ideal for demanding, high-speed networks.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 4.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, UEFI
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Offloads
- Form Factor:Low-profile, full-height
- Additional Feature:Supports PCIe 4.0 x8/x16
- Additional Feature:Supports jumbo frames 9.5KB
- Additional Feature:Supports iWARP and RoCEv2
Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox MCX512A-ACAT
If you’re seeking a high-performance NIC tailored for demanding data center environments, the Vogzone 25GbE NIC Card for Mellanox MCX512A-ACAT is an excellent choice. It uses a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface and features dual SFP28 ports, supporting flexible 1GbE to 25GbE connections. Powered by Mellanox ConnectX-5 En controller, it delivers high packet rates, low latency, and advanced offloads through Open vSwitch. Compatible with Windows, Linux, VMware, and more, it also supports RDMA, iSCSI, Jumbo Frames, and virtualization technologies like SR-IOV. This card is built for scalable, high-bandwidth data center applications, ensuring peak performance and reliability.
- Ports:Dual SFP28 ports
- Interface:PCIe 3.0 x8
- Protocol Support:25GbE, RDMA, iSCSI, FCoE
- Compatibility:Windows, Linux, VMware, FreeBSD
- Virtualization Support:SR-IOV, VMDq, Offloads
- Form Factor:Low-profile, full-height
- Additional Feature:NVIDIA ASAP² offload tech
- Additional Feature:Supports high packet rates
- Additional Feature:Includes low-profile bracket
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 25GbE NIC
Choosing the right 25GbE NIC depends on several key factors that can impact your network performance. I’ll walk you through important considerations like system compatibility, speed, offloading features, port and cable types, and software support. Understanding these points will help you select a NIC that best fits your specific needs.
Compatibility With Systems
When selecting a 25GbE NIC, guaranteeing compatibility with your system is essential for smooth operation. First, verify that the NIC supports your operating system, whether it’s Windows, Linux, or VMware. Check that the PCIe slot version (like PCIe 3.0 or 4.0) matches your motherboard’s specifications, and confirm the card’s physical size—full-height or low-profile—to fit your chassis. Make sure the network interfaces, such as SFP28 ports, are compatible with your existing cabling and transceivers. Additionally, confirm driver availability and support for your hardware architecture to avoid issues. If you plan to use virtualization features like SR-IOV or VMDq, ensure your system and firmware support these capabilities. Compatibility is key to maximizing your NIC’s performance and stability.
Performance and Speed
Ever wonder how to guarantee your 25GbE NIC delivers the speed you need? The key lies in understanding its performance features. These NICs support data transfer rates of 25 gigabits per second per port, which means rapid network communication. Many come with multiple ports, letting you combine bandwidth to reach 50GbE or more, boosting overall throughput. The use of advanced PCIe interfaces like PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 3.0 ensures minimal latency and efficient data transfer. Support for protocols such as RDMA, RoCEv2, and iSCSI helps optimize high-demand applications like virtualization and data center operations. Additionally, these NICs handle large data packets with Jumbo Frames, reducing CPU load and improving network efficiency. All these factors contribute to delivering the blazing-fast performance you require.
Offloading Features
Offloading features are vital for maximizing the performance of a 25GbE NIC, as they help reduce CPU workload and enhance data throughput. Technologies like TCP Segmentation Offload (TSO) and Large Send Offload (LSO) allow NICs to handle large data packets efficiently, decreasing CPU processing. RDMA offloading enables direct memory access between systems, minimizing latency and CPU intervention, which is essential for high-performance applications. Features such as iSCSI and FCoE offloading process storage traffic directly on the NIC, freeing up CPU resources for other tasks. Support for Virtual Machine Direct Path I/O (SR-IOV) and VMDq further boosts virtualized environment performance by offloading network processing. These capabilities collectively improve throughput, reduce bottlenecks, and optimize overall network efficiency.
Port and Cable Types
Choosing the right port and cable types is vital for maximizing your 25GbE NIC’s performance. Most 25GbE NICs feature SFP28 ports, which support fiber optic modules and direct attach cables (DAC). Your choice between fiber and copper depends on distance and environment; fiber offers longer reach, while copper provides simpler, shorter connections. SFP28 ports are backward compatible with 10G and 1G modules, giving you flexibility for upgrades and mixed-speed setups. It’s fundamental to use high-quality, compatible cables and transceivers—improper modules can cause performance issues or instability. Ensuring compatibility and selecting the appropriate cabling type based on your network’s specific needs will help you achieve ideal data rates and a reliable connection at 25GbE speeds.
Software and Driver Support
Have you checked if the 25GbE NIC you’re considering works seamlessly with your operating system? Ensuring compatibility with Windows, Linux, or VMware is vital. You want to confirm that the NIC offers up-to-date drivers compatible with your system’s kernel or OS version to prevent potential connectivity problems. Management tools or software suites are also essential—they simplify configuration, monitoring, and firmware updates, making your life easier. Additionally, look for support for advanced features like RDMA, iSCSI, or virtualization offloads, which rely on driver support for peak performance. Finally, consider whether the manufacturer provides ongoing driver updates and technical support, as this guarantees continued compatibility with evolving hardware and software standards. Good support can save you time and headaches down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Compatibility Requirements for 25GBE NICS?
Compatibility requirements for 25GbE NICs include ensuring your server or PC has a compatible PCIe slot, typically PCIe 3.0 or higher. You also need a compatible operating system, like Windows Server or Linux distributions that support these NICs. Additionally, check that your network switch supports 25GbE speeds. Finally, confirm your power supply can handle the NIC’s power needs and that your system’s BIOS or firmware is up to date for maximum compatibility.
How Do 25GBE NICS Impact Data Center Energy Consumption?
25GbE NICs can increase data center energy consumption due to higher power demands compared to lower-speed NICs. However, they also enable faster data transfer rates, which can improve overall efficiency and reduce the time servers spend handling data. I’ve found that choosing energy-efficient models and properly managing workload distribution helps balance performance gains with energy use, ensuring my data center stays both powerful and sustainable.
Can 25GBE NICS Support Virtualized Server Environments?
Absolutely, 25GbE NICs can handle virtualized server environments effortlessly. They’re like the backbone of modern data centers, supporting multiple virtual machines without breaking a sweat. I’ve seen them streamline workflows, reduce bottlenecks, and improve overall efficiency. If you’re aiming for a scalable, high-performance setup, these NICs are essential—they make virtualization smooth, fast, and reliable, transforming your infrastructure into a powerhouse.
What Maintenance Is Required for Optimal NIC Performance?
To keep your NIC performing at its best, I recommend regular firmware updates and driver checks, as these fix bugs and improve stability. Clean dust from your network card and guarantee proper cooling to prevent overheating. Periodically test your network connection for issues and monitor performance metrics. Also, verify cables and connections are secure. Staying proactive with maintenance helps ensure reliable, high-speed network performance over time.
Are There Specific Security Features Included in 25GBE NICS?
Yes, many 25GbE NICs include security features like hardware-based encryption, secure boot, and support for VLANs or network segmentation. I find these features essential for protecting data and ensuring network integrity. They help prevent unauthorized access and mitigate threats. When choosing a NIC, I recommend checking for these security options to keep your network safe and compliant with security standards.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 25GbE NIC can feel overwhelming, but the key is balancing performance with compatibility. While some cards boast cutting-edge chips, others focus on affordability and ease of use. It’s about finding that sweet spot—where speed meets reliability. Ultimately, your choice shapes your network’s efficiency and future-proofing. So, weigh your needs, consider your budget, and select confidently—because a great NIC isn’t just an upgrade, it’s a game changer.
