Intel X710-DA2 PCIe 3.0 x8 - 10 Gigabit SFP+ x 2 Ethernet Converged Network Adapter

Overview

The Intel EX710DA2G1P5 is a converged network adapter designed to deliver two 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports via a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, providing the high bandwidth required for demanding data center applications. It supports up to 10 Gbps per port, making it well suited for virtualization, high-speed storage access through iSCSI, and cloud environments that require rapid data transfer. Its low-profile design fits into dense server chassis while maintaining compatibility with standard brackets for flexible deployment.

Key features

• Two 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports allow for flexible network configurations, including link bonding for increased throughput or independent operation for traffic isolation.
• PCIe 3.0 x8 interface ensures both ports can operate at full line rate without bottlenecks, maximizing data flow efficiency.
• Built-in TCP/IP offloading and Virtual Machine Device Queues reduce CPU load, improving overall system performance in virtualized environments.
• Adaptive load balancing automatically distributes network traffic across both ports to optimize bandwidth usage and prevent congestion.
• VLAN tagging support enables network segmentation without the need for additional hardware, simplifying network management.
• iSCSI boot capability allows diskless servers to start quickly and reliably, enhancing deployment flexibility.
• Broad driver support for Windows, Linux, and VMware ESXi ensures compatibility across a wide range of server platforms.
• Low-profile form factor with included full-height and low-profile brackets fits various server chassis, supporting both new builds and legacy upgrades.
• Lifetime limited warranty provides long-term reliability and peace of mind for enterprise deployments.

Key specs

• Network ports: 2 x 10 Gigabit SFP+
• Interface: PCIe 3.0 x8
• Maximum throughput: 10 Gbps per port
• Form factor: Low-profile with full-height bracket included
• Supported operating systems: Windows, Linux, VMware ESXi
• Offloading features: TCP/IP offload, Virtual Machine Device Queues
• Network features: VLAN tagging, adaptive load balancing, iSCSI boot

Connectivity and compatibility

This adapter connects via a PCIe 3.0 x8 slot, providing ample bandwidth for both 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports to operate at full speed. The SFP+ ports support fiber or direct attach cables, allowing integration into existing high-speed network infrastructures. Compatibility with major server operating systems like Windows, Linux, and VMware ESXi ensures it can be deployed in diverse environments without driver issues.

Performance and reliability

Designed to handle intensive data center workloads, the adapter offloads network processing tasks from the CPU, which helps maintain system responsiveness under heavy network traffic. Adaptive load balancing and VLAN tagging improve network efficiency and security, while the lifetime limited warranty underscores Intel’s commitment to durability and long-term support.

Ideal uses and environments

This network adapter is a strong choice for data centers requiring high-speed connectivity for virtualization hosts, private cloud infrastructures, and storage clusters. Its features support environments where low latency, high throughput, and efficient CPU utilization are critical. The card’s form factor and broad OS support make it suitable for both new server builds and upgrades in existing racks.