QNAP Dual-Port 2.5GbE PCIe Network Expansion Card

Overview

The QNAP QXG-2G2T-I225 is a dual-port 2.5 GbE PCIe network expansion card designed to upgrade desktops, QNAP NAS systems, and servers with faster wired connectivity without the need to replace existing Cat 5-class cabling. Featuring two RJ45 ports that support speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, this card leverages an Intel Ethernet Controller I225-LM to deliver reliable and flexible network performance suitable for a variety of demanding applications.

This card installs in a PCIe 2.0 x2 slot and supports multiple network speeds including 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps, and 10 Mbps, making it a practical choice for users looking to enhance their network throughput while maintaining compatibility with their current infrastructure.

Key features

• Dual NBASE-T RJ45 ports that provide multi-speed connectivity up to 2.5 Gbps over existing Cat 5-class cables, enabling faster data transfers without rewiring.
• Intel Ethernet Controller I225-LM at its core, offering advanced networking features valued by IT professionals and power users.
• Support for PXE boot simplifies remote system deployment, making it easier to manage multiple devices in enterprise or lab environments.
• Wake-on-LAN functionality on the first port allows remote powering on or off of systems, enhancing control and energy efficiency.
• Jumbo frame support up to 9 kB improves network efficiency for large data transfers, ideal for media servers and virtualization hosts.
• VLAN tagging and Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) support provide enhanced network segmentation and low-latency communication for specialized workloads.
• Includes multiple brackets (low-profile, full-height, and QNAP NAS-specific) for flexible installation in various case types and NAS devices.
• Broad compatibility with QTS and QuTS hero NAS firmware, Windows 10 (version 1809 or later), Windows Server 2019, and Linux kernels 4.20 and 5.x ensures seamless integration into diverse environments.

Key specs

• Network interface: Dual RJ45 ports supporting 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps, and 10 Mbps
• PCIe interface: PCIe 2.0 x2 slot
• Ethernet controller: Intel I225-LM
• Cabling: Compatible with Cat 5-class cables
• Jumbo frame size: Up to 9 kB
• Operating system support: QTS, QuTS hero, Windows 10 (1809+), Windows Server 2019, Linux kernel 4.20/5.x
• Brackets included: Low-profile, full-height, QNAP NAS-specific

Connectivity and compatibility

This expansion card fits easily into most desktop and NAS setups thanks to its PCIe 2.0 x2 interface and included bracket options. The dual RJ45 ports support NBASE-T technology, allowing you to use existing Cat 5-class cables while upgrading to 2.5 GbE speeds. Compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and NAS firmware ensures it integrates smoothly into home labs, small business networks, and professional environments.

• Supports PXE boot for network-based system startup and deployment
• Wake-on-LAN on the primary port for remote power management
• Works with QNAP NAS systems running QTS or QuTS hero
• Compatible with Windows 10 (version 1809 or newer) and Windows Server 2019
• Supports Linux kernels 4.20 and 5.x for broad Linux distribution compatibility

Ideal uses and environments

The QXG-2G2T-I225 is well suited for users who need to increase network speeds without overhauling their cabling infrastructure. Home lab enthusiasts will find it useful for accelerating virtual machine migrations and backups, while creative teams can benefit from faster transfers of large media files between workstations and shared storage. Small businesses can upgrade their network core incrementally by pairing this card with affordable 2.5 GbE switches, easing bandwidth bottlenecks in busy office environments.

This card is a strong choice for anyone looking to enhance network performance in setups where cost-effective upgrades and compatibility with existing hardware are priorities.