Dell Intel X550 10Gb PCIe Dual Port Ethernet Card

Overview

The Dell 5PY5X is a dual-port Ethernet network interface card designed to provide servers with 10 gigabit connectivity via a PCI Express slot. Powered by the Intel X550 controller, it delivers up to 10,000 Mbps per port while maintaining compatibility with existing RJ45 copper cabling. This card is ideal for environments that require high-speed data transfer, virtualization, and efficient network management without replacing current infrastructure.

Its backward compatibility with 1000BASE-T ensures smooth operation in mixed-speed networks, and advanced features like Intel Virtualization Technology support multiple virtual functions per port, enhancing performance in virtualized server setups. The full-height design fits many Dell PowerEdge servers, making it a practical upgrade for demanding workloads.

Key features

• Two 10GBase-T Ethernet ports provide high-speed network connections suitable for data-intensive tasks.
• PCI Express interface allows easy installation and integration into compatible servers.
• Backward compatibility with 1000BASE-T networks ensures seamless operation in mixed-speed environments.
• Intel Virtualization Technology supports up to 64 virtual functions per port, optimizing resource allocation for virtual machines.
• Direct Cache Access, MSI-X, and stateless offloads reduce CPU load and maintain stable performance under heavy network traffic.
• Full-height bracket design fits a wide range of Dell PowerEdge servers, simplifying deployment.
• Supports workloads such as virtualization, software-defined storage, large data transfers, and high-resolution media streaming.

Key specs

• Controller: Intel X550
• Network ports: 2 x 10GBase-T Ethernet
• Maximum throughput: 10,000 Mbps per port
• Interface: PCI Express
• Backward compatibility: 1000BASE-T
• Virtualization support: Up to 64 virtual functions per port
• Form factor: Full-height bracket

Connectivity and compatibility

This network card integrates smoothly with existing server setups, especially Dell PowerEdge models, using standard RJ45 copper cabling. Its support for both 10 gigabit and gigabit Ethernet speeds allows it to function effectively in mixed network environments without requiring infrastructure changes. The PCI Express interface ensures broad compatibility with modern server motherboards.

• Two RJ45 ports for 10GBase-T Ethernet connections
• Compatible with 1000BASE-T networks for flexible deployment
• PCI Express slot interface for straightforward server integration

Performance and reliability

The Dell 5PY5X is engineered to handle demanding network workloads with features that optimize CPU usage and reduce latency. Intel Virtualization Technology enables efficient network resource allocation for virtual machines, while Direct Cache Access and MSI-X support stable performance during heavy traffic. This makes the card well suited for data centers requiring reliable 10 gigabit connectivity for backup, replication, and cluster communication.

Installation and setup

Installing the Dell 5PY5X is a quick process that fits into standard PCI Express slots on many Dell PowerEdge servers. Management tools from Dell and Intel provide familiar interfaces for configuration and monitoring, reducing the learning curve and allowing IT teams to deploy and maintain the card with minimal disruption.

Ideal uses and environments

This network card is a strong choice for data centers and enterprise environments that need to upgrade from gigabit to 10 gigabit Ethernet without replacing existing cabling. It supports virtualization, software-defined storage, and high-bandwidth applications such as large data transfers and media streaming. IT professionals managing Dell PowerEdge servers will find it a practical and efficient solution for enhancing network throughput and reducing latency in mixed-speed networks.