Network Card HPE 817721-B21 Internal Ethernet 10000 Mbit/s

The HPE 817721-B21 Internal Ethernet 10000 Mbit/s network card delivers wired 10 Gbps connectivity for servers and workstations equipped with PCI Express slots. Engineered by HP Enterprise, this internal Ethernet adapter supports high-throughput data transfer and is suitable for environments requiring reliable, low-latency wired networking. The card is compatible with established 1GBASE-T cabling and enables a cost-effective transition to 10GBASE-T using CAT 6A cabling for distances up to 100 meters, allowing incremental upgrades without a full infrastructure overhaul.

Advantages

The HPE 817721-B21 provides a stable 10000 Mbit/s transfer rate over Ethernet and uses the PCI Express host interface for direct, high-bandwidth connectivity. It supports backward compatibility with 1GBASE-T networks, simplifying deployment in mixed-speed environments. Built-in security measures such as digitally signed firmware validation, Secure Boot and device-level protections contribute to improved resilience against unauthorized firmware modifications and certain attack vectors. The adapter’s support for standard cabling reduces installation complexity and total cost of ownership for network upgrades.

Suitable for

• Server-to-switch high-speed connections
• Virtualization hosts and hyperconverged infrastructure
• Data center aggregation and top-of-rack uplinks
• High-throughput file servers and backup appliances

Key specifications

• Connectivity technology: Wired Ethernet
• Host interface: PCI Express
• Interface type: Ethernet (10GBASE-T compatible)
• Maximum data transfer rate: 10000 Mbit/s (10 Gbps)
• Cabling support: CAT 6A up to 100 meters; backward compatible with 1GBASE-T
• Security features: digitally signed firmware validation, Secure Boot, device-level firewall

How to use

Install the card into an available PCI Express slot in a powered-off server or workstation following the host system manufacturer’s safety procedures. Connect the adapter to the network using CAT 6A cabling for full 10 Gbps performance or use existing 1GBASE-T cabling for backward-compatible operation at lower speeds. After hardware installation, power on the system and install or update drivers and firmware as provided by HP Enterprise to ensure compatibility and enable security features. Verify link status and configure network settings in the host operating system or management interface.

Recommendations

For reliable 10 Gbps performance, use CAT 6A or better cabling and keep runs within 100 meters. Apply the latest vendor drivers and firmware updates to maintain security capabilities such as Secure Boot and firmware signing. When deploying in mixed-speed environments, configure link speeds and network settings to match switch capabilities and consider network testing after installation to confirm throughput and error-free operation.