Results 1 to 5 of 5
  1. #1

    NIC vs Integrated Desktop Motherboard

    Hi,

    I have a MSI desktop motherboard in a 1U case with a gigabit chipset. I've had a few problems with it like the connection going out when you download a file from it (flow control and green mode was disabled along with TCP offload) but after changing a few settings it was fine.

    Would getting an Intel NIC gigabit adapter change anything? If it reduced latency or increased speed, I would consider that a profitable benefit. I know that NICs are not necessary for server motherboards because they are top-quality to begin with but I am doubtful of desktop motherboard network chipsets.

    Any input on this would be greatly appreciated. I am also looking at this NIC.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2009
    Posts
    3,878
    If the onboard NIC is a Realtek or Broadcom chipset, an Intel NIC will hold up to much more abuse under heavy loads. Generally onboard NIC's are not very good unless they are a real Intel chipset.

    I'd also make sure your BIOS is set to optimized vs. performance and make sure everything is flashed current. As well as latest drivers if available.

  3. #3
    Get a server grade Intel NIC, the overall performance will be better.
    ReliableSite.Net LLC - Offering Enterprise Grade Dedicated Servers Since 2006 [New York City metro / Miami, FL / Los Angeles, CA]
    Customers are our #1 priority - Read Our Reviews
    Need epic pricing on 1G and 10G unmetered? We have amazing deals and a 10 minute setup time! Click here to view incredible deals.

  4. #4
    The onboard is a Realtek chipset. So I guess I will be getting the Intel NIC. Thanks.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Aug 2006
    Location
    Ashburn VA, San Diego CA
    Posts
    4,615
    If the driver is good you won't have issues with most 'cheap' NICs below the 500Mbps mark. It's really a crap shoot though, unless you've done testing and know the limits of the particular chipset and OS/driver combination. Generally I stick with Intel for the insurance that it's going to work well regardless of OS/driver, not so much for the performance potential.
    Fast Serv Networks, LLC | AS29889 | DDOS Protected | Managed Cloud, Streaming, Dedicated Servers, Colo by-the-U
    Since 2003 - Ashburn VA + San Diego CA Datacenters

Similar Threads

  1. Desktop motherboard any concerns?
    By SimpleSample in forum Dedicated Server
    Replies: 16
    Last Post: 07-13-2010, 02:46 AM
  2. Motherboard with Realtek 8111D NIC Chipset
    By qps in forum Colocation, Data Centers, IP Space and Networks
    Replies: 8
    Last Post: 09-24-2009, 09:49 PM
  3. What desktop motherboard can fit this SuperMicro 1u case?
    By jt2377 in forum Colocation, Data Centers, IP Space and Networks
    Replies: 104
    Last Post: 05-21-2008, 07:34 PM
  4. Replies: 4
    Last Post: 03-25-2004, 12:14 AM
  5. Intel CA810e motherboard's NIC
    By Fremont Servers in forum Hosting Security and Technology
    Replies: 5
    Last Post: 12-08-2001, 01:42 AM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •