Network adapter broadcom hw NetXtreme BCM5720-2P PCIe 2.0 Low Profile Gigabit Ethernet x2

The Network adapter broadcom hw NetXtreme BCM5720-2P PCIe 2.0 Low Profile Gigabit Ethernet x2 is a dual-port Gigabit Ethernet expansion card in a low-profile PCIe 2.0 form factor. Intended for servers and workstations, the card provides two independent 1 Gbps ports, hardware offload capabilities, and compatibility with standard PCI Express slots to add or replace wired LAN connectivity. The adapter supports common networking scenarios such as link aggregation and redundant uplinks while fitting compact chassis that require a low-profile bracket.

Advantages

This broadcom hw NetXtreme adapter delivers two full Gigabit Ethernet ports in a compact, low-profile design suitable for space-constrained systems. Hardware offload features reduce host CPU load for common network tasks, and the PCIe 2.0 interface provides reliable throughput for 1 Gbps connections. The dual-port layout enables flexible network configurations including redundancy and traffic separation without additional cards.

Suitable for

• Expanding wired LAN connectivity on servers and workstations
• Virtualization hosts requiring separate management and VM traffic networks
• Redundant uplinks and link aggregation for increased availability
• Space-constrained systems that need a low-profile network card

Key specifications

• Interface: PCI Express 2.0 x4 (low-profile compatible)
• Ports: 2 × Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• Form factor: Low-profile add-in card
• Hardware features: Offload support for common network tasks
• Use case: Designed for servers, workstations and virtualization hosts

How to use

Install the adapter into a compatible PCIe 2.0 slot following your system manufacturer’s service instructions and secure the low-profile bracket. Connect standard RJ-45 network cables to the two Gigabit Ethernet ports and configure network settings in the operating system or hypervisor. Install vendor or OS-provided drivers to enable full hardware offload and feature support, and verify link status and speed through network management tools or system utilities.

Recommendations

For reliable performance, use shielded Ethernet cabling rated for Gigabit speeds and ensure the host system BIOS/firmware and drivers are up to date. Consider separate physical ports for management and data traffic on virtualization hosts and configure link aggregation or redundancy where higher availability is required.