This category contains 10G and faster network cards for servers, workstations and storage systems, mainly PCIe adapters with copper RJ-45 or fibre connections. It suits anyone upgrading a server, NAS or workstation beyond gigabit speeds. Intel, HPE, StarTech.com and Broadcom are among the leading brands in our range.
How to choose a 10G or server network card
Port type. Copper RJ-45 cards connect with ordinary twisted-pair cable, while fibre cards use SFP+ or similar modules and suit longer runs or switches with fibre ports. Our range includes both Ethernet and fibre interfaces, so check which ports your switch actually has before ordering.
Number of ports. Single-port cards are enough for a direct link to a switch or NAS. Dual-port cards allow redundancy or link aggregation, and some fibre cards have no RJ-45 ports at all, so read the port listing carefully.
Slot and bracket. Most of these cards need a PCIe slot with enough lanes for the speed you want, and a 10G card generally needs more than a single lane of an older PCIe generation. Check whether your case takes a full-height bracket or needs a low-profile one, as slim servers and small workstations often do.
Server and operating system compatibility. Cards sold for a specific server family, such as HPE ProLiant, are validated for those machines and are the safest match for them. For other systems, check that drivers exist for your operating system, for example Windows Server, Linux or VMware ESXi.
Operating conditions. Server-grade cards are built for steady airflow and long running hours. Specified operating temperatures in our range include 0 to 40 °C and 5 to 50 °C, so make sure the case or rack can keep the card within its limits.
10G and server network card brands we carry
- Intel: its Ethernet adapters, including the X-series and E810 families, are widely supported by server operating systems and hypervisors, which is why they are the largest group in our range.
- HPE and HP: HPE supplies network adapters designed for its ProLiant servers, which makes them a straightforward choice when replacing or expanding cards in those machines.
- StarTech.com: known for PCIe network cards and adapters aimed at workstations and general IT installations, often with a choice of bracket sizes.
- Broadcom: its NetXtreme controllers are used in many server adapters, including cards sold under other brand names.
Also in our range: TP-Link and Digitus.
Frequently asked questions about 10G and server network cards
Do I need a 10G network card?
You need one only if the rest of your setup can use the speed. A fast NAS, an SSD or NVMe array, or several users moving large files at once can exceed gigabit. The switch and cabling must support 10G as well, otherwise the card will fall back to a lower speed.
What is the difference between RJ-45 and SFP+ network cards?
RJ-45 cards use standard copper network cable, while SFP+ cards take a fibre or direct-attach module. Copper is simpler and easier to cable inside an office. SFP+ is common in data centres and server racks, where it gives longer reach and flexible cabling options.
Can I use a server network card in a desktop PC?
Yes, in most cases, provided the PC has a free PCIe slot and drivers exist for your operating system. These cards are designed for server airflow, so they can run warm in a closed desktop case. Check that the bracket fits your case or that a low-profile bracket is included.
Which cable do I need for 10G Ethernet over copper?
Cat6a is the safe choice, as it supports 10G over distances up to 100 metres. Cat6 can carry 10G over shorter runs, while Cat5e is generally not suitable for full 10G speed. For fibre cards, the cable or module must match the type of port on both ends.
