Network cards

The network card provides a wired connection to the network – it adds a port to a computer without one, speeds up the connection to 2.5 or 10 Gbps, or replaces a damaged port on the motherboard. Here you can find internal PCIe cards, USB and USB-C adapters for laptops, cards with multiple ports, and SFP modules for optical connections.

How to choose

• Speed. Gigabit cards are sufficient for most home and office connections. 2.5 Gbps is useful for fast internet and NAS. 10 Gbps and more are for servers, workstations, and video processing networks.
• Connection to the computer. PCIe cards are installed inside the desktop computer and are the most stable. USB and USB-C adapters are for laptops and small computers without a network port.
• Number of ports. Cards with two or four ports are for servers, firewalls, and virtualization.
• Purpose. Besides classic network cards, there are adapters from USB-C to network port, cards with additional USB ports, and expansion cards for specific needs.
• Optics. Cards and switches with SFP or SFP+ slots work with optical cable modules – for long distances and very high speed.

What to watch out for

• For full speed, the router or switch must support the same speed.
• Low-profile cards fit into small cases if the package includes a short bracket.
• The USB adapter for 2.5 Gbps requires a USB 3.0 port or newer; otherwise, the speed will be limited by the port.
• SFP modules must match the type of optical cable and distance – single-mode or multi-mode.
• Some USB-C adapters also provide power to the laptop – convenient if you have few ports.

Compatibility

PCIe cards require a free PCIe slot on the motherboard – check if it is not occupied by the graphics card. Most gigabit cards work with Windows and Linux immediately, while faster ones may require a driver. For 10-gigabit cards, use category 6A cables or optics; otherwise, the connection may drop to a lower speed. Server cards sometimes need good ventilation in the case because they heat up. If you cannot use a cable, check out WiFi adapters, and for more ports in the network – switches.