Overview

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 2-Port PCIe Network Card is a versatile network adapter designed for desktop PCs. Offering dual Ethernet ports, it supports speeds of 1000, 100, and 10Mbps, ensuring reliable and fast connections. This network card is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a flexible solution for different setups. It also includes both standard and low-profile brackets, so it can be easily installed in compact or standard desktop cases, providing a seamless fit for various builds.

Features & Benefits

Equipped with the Realtek RTL8111H chipset, this PCIe Ethernet adapter delivers stable and efficient performance. The card automatically negotiates the best data rate, adjusting between 1000, 100, and 10Mbps for optimal speed. Its Wake-On-LAN and RealWoW! features enable remote management, adding convenience for users who need to wake their PCs remotely. It’s also plug-and-play with most major operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, while offering support for virtualization platforms like VMware, Proxmox, and unRaid.

Best For

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 is ideal for users who want to upgrade their desktop network connectivity. Its dual-port configuration makes it perfect for home servers or small office setups, especially for those requiring multiple Ethernet connections. It also suits networking enthusiasts who use virtualization software or manage NAS systems. Additionally, its low-profile bracket option makes it a great choice for users with compact PC builds or cases where space is limited, all while providing a cost-effective solution for dependable Ethernet access.

User Feedback

With a solid rating of 4.5 stars from 541 reviews, users have praised the easy installation process and the card’s reliability. Many appreciate how it delivers consistent performance across different operating systems. However, some users noted the need for additional driver installation, especially on newer versions of certain operating systems. The card’s flexibility, with both standard and low-profile brackets, has also been highlighted, as it allows for compatibility with a wide range of desktop setups. Overall, users find this card to be a great value for its price.

Pros

  • This network card offers easy installation and plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
  • The two gigabit Ethernet ports ensure stable and fast connections for desktop setups.
  • Support for virtualization platforms like VMware, Proxmox, and unRaid is a big plus for enthusiasts.
  • The low-profile bracket option is a great feature for compact builds or smaller PC cases.
  • Realtek RTL8111H chipset provides reliable performance, handling heavy traffic smoothly.
  • Ideal for small office or home server setups, offering a cost-effective Ethernet solution.

Cons

  • Some users reported needing additional driver installations on specific OS versions, which may be inconvenient.
  • The card may not be suitable for high-demand enterprise environments due to limited ports.
  • Not all users found the automatic speed negotiation to be flawless, with occasional drops in connection speed.
  • Those looking for a more industrial-grade build might find this product's durability lacking.
  • The card's 2-port setup may be limiting for users needing more network interfaces in large-scale setups.
  • A few reviewers mentioned difficulty in ensuring full compatibility with older OS versions.

Ratings

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 2-Port PCIe Network Card has garnered positive feedback from verified users worldwide, with reviews coming from a diverse range of countries and languages. After filtering out low-quality, duplicated, and incentivized reviews, our analysis reflects a balanced perspective on both the strengths and pain points users have highlighted. Across multiple platforms, users have noted its ease of use, broad OS compatibility, and solid performance, though some have raised concerns about driver installation on specific systems. These insights provide a well-rounded view of what buyers can expect from this network card.

Performance
88%
Users consistently highlight the reliable performance of this network card, with many praising its stable and fast speeds during regular use. The inclusion of the Realtek RTL8111H chipset ensures smooth data transfers for both basic and intensive networking tasks. It's perfect for both home and small office setups.
Some users mention that while the network card works fine for most tasks, it doesn't always perform as expected under heavy network load. A few have reported occasional slowdowns in certain high-demand applications or with large data transfers.
Value for Money
92%
Many buyers feel this device provides excellent value for money, offering gigabit speeds and virtualization support at a very reasonable price. It's a solid choice for users looking to upgrade their network without breaking the bank. The included low-profile bracket also adds value for compact PC builds.
A handful of users believe that while the price is affordable, it may not justify the occasional need for additional driver installation. Some feel that at this price point, certain advanced features could be more streamlined without additional setup steps.
Installation Ease
85%
Installation is generally straightforward, with most users appreciating the plug-and-play functionality. The inclusion of both full-profile and low-profile brackets makes it adaptable to various desktop configurations, and many find the process hassle-free on most operating systems.
However, some buyers have reported issues with driver installation on certain OS versions, especially on older systems. While it's not a major obstacle, it can be frustrating for users who aren't familiar with manually installing drivers.
OS Compatibility
90%
This network card is praised for its broad OS compatibility, with users successfully installing it on Windows, Linux, and macOS systems. Many mention that it works seamlessly across a variety of setups, from desktop PCs to more complex home server configurations.
While compatibility is generally great, a few users with specific Linux distributions or older macOS versions experienced compatibility hiccups. These issues typically involve missing drivers or minor bugs that required extra effort to resolve.
Virtualization Support
86%
This device receives praise for its virtualization support, with users successfully running VMware, Proxmox, and unRaid on their systems. It's a good fit for those building home servers or network-attached storage (NAS) systems, providing reliable Ethernet connectivity in virtual environments.
However, a few users have noted that while the card works well with basic virtualization setups, there are occasional connectivity issues when used with advanced or multi-network configurations. It's not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind for high-demand virtual environments.
Reliability
89%
Many users commend the card for its reliability over time. After extended use, there have been few reports of hardware malfunctions or connectivity problems. It's considered a dependable solution for both casual and more intensive networking tasks.
Some users have mentioned that while the card is generally reliable, occasional hiccups can occur during high-traffic network conditions. These issues seem to be isolated and less frequent, but they may be noticeable for power users.
Driver Installation
72%
28%
Several users appreciated that this network card's drivers are readily available and work well for most systems. Once installed, it functions reliably without ongoing setup issues.
However, many users have flagged driver installation as a potential hassle. Specifically, certain OS versions require manual intervention, which can be time-consuming for those unfamiliar with troubleshooting drivers. This inconsistency detracts from the overall user experience.
Setup Flexibility
87%
This network card offers good flexibility for varied setups, with both regular and low-profile brackets included for installation in different desktop configurations. Users find it easy to incorporate into custom or pre-built machines, making it versatile for various users.
A few users noted that the low-profile bracket may not fit all cases perfectly, particularly in very compact builds. Though this isn't a widespread issue, it can create minor inconveniences for users with specific PC case designs.
Network Stability
91%
Many users report that the network stability provided by this card is top-notch. Whether used for basic web browsing or more intensive data transfers, the connection remains steady without drops or interruptions, making it a reliable choice for home and office setups.
A small number of users did experience minor network drops during particularly high-traffic periods, though these were rare and mostly resolved with software updates. It’s not a common problem but something to keep in mind for users who rely on the most stable connections.
Build Quality
84%
The build quality of the card is generally praised, with users noting that it's well-made and durable. The components feel solid, and the card's design is compact, making it suitable for various system types, from casual PCs to custom servers.
However, a few buyers felt that the construction could be more robust, with reports of occasional concerns about the card's longevity in more demanding environments. For everyday use, it's solid, but it might not be as rugged as more expensive options.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Customer support for this network card is generally positive, with users mentioning that responses to inquiries are quick and helpful. Many appreciate the team's willingness to assist with installation or driver issues.
On the other hand, a few users expressed frustration with the support team's ability to resolve specific driver or compatibility issues, with some noting slower-than-expected response times during high-demand periods.
Port Configuration
93%
Users love the port configuration of this network card, with its two gigabit Ethernet ports offering great versatility for dual-network setups. It's ideal for home server users or small office environments, allowing easy management of separate network connections.
A small number of users mentioned that while two ports are helpful, some might prefer more ports for larger setups. However, this is a minor issue for users who don’t need more than two connections at once.

Suitable for:

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 2-Port PCIe Network Card is an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their network connectivity without breaking the bank. It is particularly suitable for home or small office setups where stable gigabit Ethernet speeds are required. Networking enthusiasts running virtualization software, such as VMware, Proxmox, or unRaid, will find it especially useful, offering seamless integration with these platforms. Additionally, users needing a cost-effective solution for NAS systems or those looking to upgrade an older desktop PC will benefit from the plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, Linux, and macOS. The flexibility of both regular and low-profile brackets also makes it a great option for various case configurations, ensuring it fits in compact builds as well as standard desktop cases.

Not suitable for:

While the GLOTRENDS LE8202 2-Port PCIe Network Card offers solid performance for most users, it may not be the best fit for those with advanced networking needs or high-demand applications. Users requiring more than two Ethernet ports for larger setups may find it limiting. Additionally, while installation is straightforward for many, some users experienced issues with driver installation on specific operating systems, which could be a hassle for those who aren't comfortable with troubleshooting. For users with complex server or network setups demanding extremely high reliability or support for advanced features, this network card may not meet all expectations. Similarly, if you're looking for a more rugged or industrial-grade product for long-term heavy-duty use, this card's build quality may fall short.

Specifications

  • Ports: Equipped with 2 gigabit Ethernet ports supporting 1000/100/10Mbps speeds for stable network connections.
  • Chipset: Powered by the Realtek RTL8111H chipset for reliable and fast Ethernet performance.
  • Interface: Uses a PCIe x1 interface, ensuring easy installation in available PCIe slots on desktop PCs.
  • OS Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, CentOS, Ubuntu, and Debian operating systems.
  • Virtualization Support: Supports virtualization platforms including VMware ESXi, Proxmox, and unRaid for flexible network configurations.
  • Wake-On-LAN: Features Wake-On-LAN (WoL) support for remote management and power control of connected systems.
  • Speed Negotiation: Automatically negotiates speed settings between 1000MbE, 100MbE, and 10MbE for optimal data rates.
  • Brackets Included: Includes both regular and low-profile brackets, offering flexible installation options for different PC case sizes.
  • Driver Installation: Driver installation is required for some operating systems, with support for plug-and-play on most platforms.
  • Data Transfer Rate: Supports a maximum data transfer rate of up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) for high-speed networking.
  • Dimensions: The card measures 5.71 x 4.92 x 0.94 inches, fitting most desktop PC cases.
  • Weight: Weighs 0.24 kg, making it lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • Form Factor: Compact form factor suitable for both standard and low-profile installations in desktop systems.
  • Network Standards: Complies with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, and IEEE 802.3ab standards for reliable Ethernet networking.
  • Compatibility with NAS: Ideal for network-attached storage (NAS) systems, providing dual Ethernet ports for enhanced file transfer speeds.
  • Power Consumption: Low power consumption, making it suitable for long-term use in energy-efficient systems.
  • Bus Type: Uses a PCIe x1 bus type, ensuring compatibility with most modern desktop PCs.
  • Latency: Offers low latency performance, suitable for real-time applications and reducing network delays.

FAQ

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 is a 2-port PCIe network card designed for desktop PCs, providing two gigabit Ethernet ports. It supports speeds of 1000/100/10Mbps and works seamlessly with Windows, Linux, and macOS systems. This card is ideal for enhancing network performance in desktop setups or small servers.

Yes, this network card is compatible with a variety of operating systems including Windows, Linux, macOS, CentOS, Ubuntu, and Debian. It's designed for plug-and-play functionality on most platforms, though some OS versions may require additional driver installations.

Absolutely! The GLOTRENDS LE8202 supports virtualization platforms such as VMware ESXi, Proxmox, and unRaid. It’s a great choice for users running virtual machines or setting up network-attached storage (NAS) systems, thanks to its two Ethernet ports and reliable performance.

Installation is simple. First, insert the card into an available PCIe slot on your desktop. Then, attach the appropriate bracket (either full-profile or low-profile, depending on your case). Most users can expect plug-and-play compatibility, but some OS versions may require manual driver installation.

The GLOTRENDS LE8202 supports a maximum data transfer rate of 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps), which is ideal for most home or small office networking needs. This makes it a great choice for stable and fast wired connections.

If you experience slower speeds, ensure the cable and network equipment (like your router or switch) support gigabit speeds. Additionally, check that your drivers are up to date, as outdated or missing drivers can sometimes cause connection issues.

Yes, the GLOTRENDS LE8202 includes both standard and low-profile brackets, making it suitable for both full-sized and compact PC cases. The low-profile bracket option is especially useful for smaller builds with limited space.

Yes, this network card supports Wake-on-LAN (WoL) and RealWoW! technology, allowing you to remotely wake up your PC over the network. This feature is especially useful for server setups or remote administration.

Some users have noted that additional driver installation may be required for certain operating systems. Additionally, while the automatic speed negotiation generally works well, there have been occasional reports of connection drops or slower speeds in specific setups.

Yes, the GLOTRENDS LE8202 is an affordable solution for users needing a reliable gigabit Ethernet card with multiple ports. It offers good performance and broad compatibility at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for home users, small offices, and server setups.