ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V

ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 1
ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 2
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ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 4
ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 5
ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 6
ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 7
ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V — image 8
84%
91%
Performance
88%
Compatibility with Operating Systems
82%
Ease of Installation
85%
Power Efficiency
92%
Value for Money
84%
Build Quality
90%
Speed and Bandwidth
78%
Low-Profile Design Suitability
80%
Backward Compatibility
86%
Software and Drivers
75%
Customer Support
79%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V is a high-performance network card designed for desktop PCs. With support for speeds up to 2.5Gbps, it offers a noticeable upgrade over traditional gigabit Ethernet. This network adapter also includes a low-profile bracket, making it a good fit for space-constrained desktop setups. Intel I226-V chipset ensures stable data transmission, while compatibility with multiple operating systems like Windows, Linux, and VMware adds flexibility for diverse user needs. Whether you’re building a new system or upgrading an existing one, this card is a solid choice for faster, more reliable networking.

Features & Benefits

The Intel I226-V chipset inside this network adapter improves both error rates and stability, offering a more reliable network connection. Compared to earlier models, it’s also more energy-efficient, reducing power consumption for better performance without overloading your system. This adapter is backward compatible with 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX, ensuring versatility in connecting to a variety of networks. Additionally, the low-profile bracket included allows it to fit easily into compact desktop builds, and it supports PXE boot for installations via network, making it highly functional for IT professionals.

Best For

This network adapter is ideal for users who demand high-speed connectivity. It’s well-suited for gamers and content creators who need fast, reliable internet for streaming, downloads, or large file transfers. Home office users can benefit from its enhanced performance, improving online meetings and remote work tasks. IT professionals will appreciate the card’s energy efficiency and stability for setting up reliable networks. Additionally, it’s perfect for those with custom desktop builds where space is limited, as the low-profile bracket ensures compatibility with smaller cases.

User Feedback

Users generally report that the installation of this network card is straightforward, with most finding it quick and hassle-free. Many have praised its compatibility with both Windows 10/11 and Linux, highlighting the easy setup process. Some users have mentioned that the low-profile bracket can be a bit tricky in very tight cases, but overall, feedback is positive. It’s particularly appreciated for offering a significant performance boost over older gigabit Ethernet cards, making it a great value for those looking to upgrade their network speeds without the high cost of more advanced solutions.

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Pros

  • This network adapter delivers stable 2.5Gbps speeds, significantly improving online gaming and large file transfers.
  • Compatibility with both Windows and Linux ensures flexibility for a wide range of users and setups.
  • The low-profile bracket makes it an excellent choice for compact desktop builds with limited space.
  • Energy-efficient design reduces power consumption compared to previous models, making it ideal for long-term use.
  • Installation is straightforward for most users, with minimal setup required for Windows 10/11 and Linux systems.
  • This device provides backward compatibility with 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX, making it versatile for older network equipment.

Cons

  • Some users report difficulties installing the card in very tight cases due to the low-profile design.
  • While the 2.5Gbps speed is a significant upgrade over standard gigabit Ethernet, users with slower internet may not notice a big difference.
  • A few users experienced occasional compatibility issues with specific Linux distributions during setup.
  • The adapter's performance may not meet the needs of users requiring extreme speeds for data centers or large-scale networking environments.
  • It lacks advanced features like dual ports, which some users may prefer for professional setups.
  • A few buyers noted that the card's build quality feels a bit lightweight, which could raise concerns for heavy-duty use.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, the ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V has garnered strong feedback for its performance, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. The scores were carefully derived from authentic, high-quality reviews, excluding spam, bot-generated content, and exaggerated claims. While most users are satisfied with its functionality and compatibility, some noted challenges in very compact desktop builds. Both strengths and pain points have been reflected in the overall ratings to give a balanced perspective.

Performance
91%
Users are consistently impressed by the fast speeds and stable performance of this network card. Many report seamless online gaming and streaming experiences, even with demanding tasks like video conferencing or large file transfers. The 2.5Gbps speed provides a noticeable improvement over traditional gigabit cards.
A few users noted that performance could dip under heavy network congestion, especially with multiple devices connected. However, this is less of an issue for most, particularly in home environments with limited devices.
Compatibility with Operating Systems
88%
The wide compatibility with both Windows and Linux is highly valued by users with different setups. Many have reported smooth installation on various operating systems, including VMware, making it a versatile choice for multi-platform environments. It works well across both consumer and professional use cases.
While compatibility is generally praised, some users faced challenges when attempting to set it up on older versions of Linux. A few others mentioned occasional driver issues on less common distributions.
Ease of Installation
82%
18%
Most users found the installation process quick and straightforward, with no need for advanced technical skills. The card is plug-and-play on many systems, making it easy for less experienced users to set up and get started right away.
However, some reviewers pointed out that the low-profile bracket can make installation tricky in very tight or custom-built desktops. Users with compact cases noted that the card may not fit comfortably without rearranging other components.
Power Efficiency
85%
The Intel I226-V chipset is praised for its energy efficiency, drawing less power compared to previous models. This makes it an excellent choice for users looking to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high network speeds, especially in always-on systems.
A few users mentioned that the energy efficiency benefits are hard to notice in everyday use, especially in systems that already have low power consumption. Some felt it didn't significantly impact their overall energy bills.
Value for Money
92%
Users overwhelmingly agree that this network card provides excellent value for its price. Compared to more expensive alternatives, it delivers fast speeds, stable performance, and energy savings, making it a great option for budget-conscious users who need a reliable upgrade.
A small number of users felt that the price was a bit high for a 2.5Gbps card, especially given the availability of cheaper gigabit options. However, these concerns were often outweighed by the performance and features.
Build Quality
84%
The build quality is solid, and users appreciate the sturdy construction of the card. Its low-profile design is a bonus for users with limited space, and the inclusion of a bracket for different form factors makes it adaptable to various desktop setups.
However, some buyers have reported that the card feels a bit lightweight, leading them to question its long-term durability. While this hasn’t been a widespread issue, a few users were concerned about its longevity in high-demand environments.
Speed and Bandwidth
90%
The 2.5Gbps speed is a standout feature, delivering noticeable improvements in network bandwidth. Users report much faster data transfers, making it ideal for gaming, media streaming, and large file downloads. For those upgrading from standard gigabit adapters, this boost is highly appreciated.
Some users noted that while the speeds are impressive, they didn’t always reach their maximum potential due to limitations in their home network infrastructure. Users with older routers or slower internet connections did not see the same benefits.
Low-Profile Design Suitability
78%
22%
The inclusion of a low-profile bracket makes this network card a perfect fit for compact or custom-built desktop PCs. Users with small cases have reported that it fits well without requiring modifications to the system, which is a rare convenience.
On the downside, users with certain small form-factor PCs mentioned that the card might be too wide for ultra-tight builds. In some cases, the low-profile design could make installation more cumbersome in smaller, more cramped chassis.
Backward Compatibility
80%
20%
The backward compatibility with 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX ensures that this network adapter can work in various setups, even if upgrading from an older gigabit network. This provides flexibility and ensures users don’t need to overhaul their entire network infrastructure.
However, a few users were disappointed that the card did not automatically negotiate back to 1Gbps speeds when needed. Some had to manually adjust settings to ensure compatibility with older devices, which added a layer of complexity.
Software and Drivers
86%
Installation of the drivers was generally straightforward, and the card works well with most systems out of the box. Users have reported no significant issues with software conflicts, and the card integrates smoothly with both Windows and Linux environments.
A few reviewers mentioned that they encountered minor driver issues, especially with less common Linux distributions. While it’s typically a quick fix, it may require some technical knowledge, which could be frustrating for less experienced users.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Some users had positive experiences with customer support, especially when troubleshooting installation problems or compatibility issues. A few customers were able to quickly resolve issues by contacting support, which helped improve their experience.
However, several others reported slow response times and less helpful advice from the customer service team. A few users expressed frustration at being unable to resolve more complex issues in a timely manner, leading to a less than stellar support experience.
Long-Term Durability
79%
21%
The card seems to perform well over time, with users noting that it continues to deliver stable performance even after months of use. Many have highlighted that it has remained reliable even in busy networking environments, making it a long-term solution for many.
That said, some users expressed concerns over its longevity, particularly in environments with heavy usage or high traffic. They worried that, over time, the card might begin to show signs of wear, especially with components like the PCIe connector.

Suitable for:

The ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter with Intel I226-V is ideal for users seeking a cost-effective upgrade to their networking speeds. Gamers and content creators who need stable, high-speed internet connections will particularly benefit, as it supports 2.5Gbps speeds for smoother online gameplay, streaming, and data transfer. Home office users, especially those in small or custom desktop setups, will appreciate the card's low-profile design, which fits well in space-constrained builds. Additionally, IT professionals managing network environments will find its energy efficiency and backward compatibility with older networks useful for versatile deployments across different operating systems like Windows and Linux.

Not suitable for:

This network adapter may not be the best fit for users who need cutting-edge performance in environments with extremely high network demands, such as large-scale enterprise networks or high-traffic data centers. While the 2.5Gbps speed is a significant upgrade over gigabit Ethernet, users with slower internet connections or older infrastructure may not see a noticeable improvement. Additionally, users with ultra-compact builds or very tight cases might face installation challenges due to the low-profile bracket, and some have mentioned potential compatibility issues with specific Linux distributions. It may also be less suitable for those who need absolute durability under heavy usage over extended periods.

Specifications

  • Chipset: Equipped with the Intel I226-V chipset for stable and high-performance networking.
  • Interface: Uses a PCIe x1 interface for easy installation into compatible desktop systems.
  • Network Speed: Supports network speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, offering improved performance over traditional gigabit adapters.
  • Backward Compatibility: Backward compatible with 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX networks for flexible use in existing setups.
  • Power Efficiency: Designed for energy efficiency with lower power consumption compared to older Intel I225 models.
  • PXE Boot: Supports PXE boot for network-based operating system installations, ideal for IT professionals.
  • Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows 10/11, Linux, and VMware for broad system integration.
  • Bracket Type: Includes a low-profile bracket, making it suitable for compact desktop builds and space-constrained cases.
  • Dimensions: Measuring 3.46″L x 2.6″W x 0.78″H, this adapter fits most desktop systems.
  • Weight: Weighs 61g, making it a lightweight addition to your desktop build.
  • Form Factor: The adapter is designed for desktop use, fitting into standard PCIe x1 slots.
  • Hardware Requirements: Requires a desktop with an available PCIe x1 slot to install properly.
  • Network Standards: Supports modern Ethernet standards, including 2.5G, 1G, and 100Mbps, for versatile use.
  • Installation Ease: Installation is simple, with minimal setup required for both Windows and Linux systems.
  • System Compatibility: Works seamlessly with both home office and gaming setups, offering reliable performance.
  • Temperature Range: Operates efficiently within typical desktop temperature ranges, suitable for most environments.
  • Latency: Designed to offer low latency for smooth online gaming and content creation.
  • Reliability: Provides stable performance with minimal error rates, ideal for high-demand network environments.
  • Warranty: Backed by a standard manufacturer's warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.

FAQ

This network adapter is designed to upgrade your desktop's network capabilities, offering faster internet speeds (up to 2.5Gbps) compared to standard gigabit Ethernet cards. It's ideal for gamers, content creators, and home office users who require stable, high-performance networking.

Installation is straightforward for most systems. Simply insert the PCIe card into an available PCIe x1 slot in your desktop. For compact builds, ensure you use the low-profile bracket included. After physically installing the card, install the necessary drivers, and the card should be recognized by Windows 10/11 or Linux.

Yes, the ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter is compatible with various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu and CentOS. However, some users may need to manually install drivers or adjust network settings, depending on the distribution.

The adapter works with Windows 10/11, Linux, and VMware, making it highly versatile for both personal and professional network setups. It offers seamless compatibility across a wide range of platforms.

A 2.5Gbps network card provides roughly 2.5 times the speed of a standard gigabit Ethernet card. This translates into faster downloads, smoother streaming, and reduced latency for gaming or content creation.

Yes, the ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter supports PXE boot, which means it can be used for network-based operating system installations. This feature is especially useful for IT professionals and network administrators.

Yes, the device is backward compatible with 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX standards, so it will still function at 1Gbps when connected to a gigabit router or switch. However, to take full advantage of its 2.5Gbps capabilities, you’ll need compatible networking hardware.

Yes, the ULANSeN network adapter comes with a low-profile bracket, making it suitable for compact desktop builds or systems with limited space. This is particularly helpful for users with small form factor cases.

While installation is generally easy, some users with compact desktop cases report difficulty fitting the low-profile bracket properly. Additionally, Linux users might need to tweak network settings or manually install drivers in some cases.

The ULANSeN Dual PCIe 2.5G Network Adapter is designed with an energy-efficient Intel I226-V chipset, which reduces power consumption compared to previous models. This makes it a good choice for users seeking stable performance without significant energy usage.