StarTech.com
StarTech.com PR42GI-NETWORK-CARD Quad-Port PCIe Network Card
Best quad-port adapter for high-speed professional network management.
Elevate your network performance with the StarTech.com PR42GI-NETWORK-CARD, a quad-port PCIe network card engineered for multi-Gigabit speeds. Leveraging Intel® I225-V chipsets and NBASE-T technology, it seamlessly integrates with existing Cat5e or Cat6 cabling for up to 2.5GBASE-T speeds. This enhances bandwidth for demanding applications and streamlines IT management with Intel vPro, PXE boot, and VLAN support. Designed for reliability, it features a built-in heatsink and includes a low-profile bracket for broad compatibility across Windows, VMware, and Linux systems.
$222.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
113
/ 961
#113 in Network Cards & Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-78%
Below average
Chipset
225
/ Intel® I-V
Who it's for
- Technical professionals requiring seamless cross-platform driver support
- IT administrators maximizing limited server expansion slots
- System architects optimizing virtual machine network performance
Who should skip it
- Casual users lacking advanced network configuration experience
- Owners of older hardware with limited PCIe bandwidth
- Budget-conscious buyers needing only basic connectivity
Performance breakdown
Network Throughput
Quad-port configuration delivers massive bandwidth for data-heavy professional environments.
Compatibility
Broad OS support ensures seamless integration across Windows, Linux, and VMware.
Thermal Management
Integrated heatsink design maintains stability during sustained high-speed data transfers.
Management Features
Intel vPro and PXE boot offer robust tools for remote IT administration.
Installation Versatility
Included low-profile bracket allows for easy fitting in compact server chassis.
Cabling Flexibility
NBASE-T technology maximizes existing Cat5e or Cat6 infrastructure performance.
Key Specs
Chipset
Intel® I225-V
Port Speed
2.5GBASE-T
Number of Ports
4
Interface
PCI Express
Standards Supported
NBASE-T
Management Features
Intel vPro, PXE Boot, VLAN Support
Maximum Data Rate
2.5 Gbps
OS Support
Windows, Windows Server, VMware, Linux
Features
- Quad-port for high throughput
- 2.5GBASE-T speeds via NBASE-T
- Intel vPro remote management
- Built-in heatsink for stability
- Low-profile bracket included
- PXE boot and VLAN support
- Wide OS compatibility
- LED indicators for status
What customers say
This quad port PCIe network card earns high praise for its exceptional reliability and robust performance, making it essential for demanding server and virtualization tasks. Users consistently report flawless, instant recognition and easy installation across diverse operating systems, including complex environments like ESXi and various Linux builds. The stability provided by the chipset results in low CPU overhead, a key benefit for power users. While the initial cost is higher than basic options, professionals view the card as a superior value compared to proprietary alternatives, citing its solid build quality and dependable continuous operation. It successfully delivers the high throughput segmentation capabilities expected by network administrators.
Know before you buy
Yes, the card utilizes NBASE-T technology, which allows it to deliver 2.5GBASE-T speeds over your existing Cat5e or Cat6 infrastructure without requiring a complete cable upgrade.
Absolutely. The card includes a low-profile bracket in the box, making it compatible with both standard and small-form-factor systems.
Yes, the PR42GI-NETWORK-CARD is compatible with VMware, as well as Windows and Linux, making it a reliable choice for server and workstation environments.
The Intel I225-V chipset is highly regarded for its stability and performance. It enables advanced features like Intel vPro for remote management, PXE boot for network-based OS deployment, and VLAN support for better network segmentation.
No, the card is powered directly through the PCIe slot on your motherboard, so no additional power cables are needed.
The card features a built-in heatsink designed to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring stable performance and preventing thermal throttling during heavy network traffic.
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