United States
Q
What is a Lenovo Server Network Adapter?
A
A Lenovo Server Network Adapter is a PCIe expansion card that provides high-performance Ethernet or converged networking for Lenovo ThinkSystem and ThinkAgile servers.
Q
Which Lenovo Server Network Adapter models support 25GbE and 100GbE?
A
Lenovo offers models such as the ThinkSystem 25GbE SFP28 and 100GbE QSFP28 adapters, delivering scalable performance for demanding data-center workloads.
Q
How do I install a Lenovo Server Network Adapter?
A
Power down the server, insert the adapter into a compatible PCIe slot, secure it with a retention bracket, reconnect cables, and power on. Install the latest drivers from Lenovo Support.
Q
Is Lenovo Server Network Adapter compatible with VMware ESXi?
A
Yes. Lenovo Server Network Adapters are VMware-certified and fully supported on ESXi 6.5, 6.7, 7.0, and later versions with Lenovo VMware Vendor Certified drivers.
Q
Can I use Lenovo Server Network Adapter for RDMA workloads?
A
Absolutely. Many Lenovo adapters support RoCEv2 and iWARP for low-latency RDMA acceleration in high-performance computing and storage environments.
Q
How do I update firmware on a Lenovo Server Network Adapter?
A
Download the adapter firmware package from Lenovo Support, run the firmware update utility in your OS or UEFI, follow the on-screen prompts, and reboot upon completion.
Q
What throughput performance can I expect from Lenovo Server Network Adapters?
A
Lenovo adapters deliver line-rate throughput—up to 25GbE, 40GbE, 50GbE, or 100GbE per port—ensuring zero packet drops under full-duplex operation with optimized drivers.
Q
How many PCIe lanes does a Lenovo Server Network Adapter require?
A
Most adapters use PCIe Gen3 x8 lanes; high-speed models may use Gen4 x16 slots. Always verify the server’s PCIe slot specifications before installation.
Q
Do Lenovo Server Network Adapters support iSCSI offload?
A
Yes. Select Lenovo Converged Network Adapters (CNAs) support iSCSI offload, reducing CPU load and improving block-storage throughput in SAN deployments.
Q
How do I configure VLAN tagging on a Lenovo Server Network Adapter?
A
Use Lenovo XClarity Controller or OS utilities to add VLAN IDs on each adapter port. Enable 802.1Q tagging in the adapter’s driver settings for proper VLAN segmentation.
Q
Which operating systems are supported by Lenovo Server Network Adapters?
A
Lenovo adapters support major OS platforms including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, Microsoft Windows Server, VMware ESXi, and CentOS.
Q
How can I monitor and manage Lenovo Server Network Adapters?
A
Use Lenovo XClarity Administrator, in-band tools like ethtool, or vendor-specific utilities to monitor link status, throughput, errors, and perform firmware updates.
Q
What warranty covers Lenovo Server Network Adapters?
A
All Lenovo Server Network Adapters come with a standard three-year limited warranty, upgradeable to five years with Lenovo Premier Support and warranty extension services.
Q
Can Lenovo Server Network Adapters operate in multi-host or switchless topologies?
A
Yes. High-performance models with SR-IOV and virtual Fabrics support multi-host configurations and direct server-to-server connectivity without external switches.
Q
How do I troubleshoot link failures on Lenovo Server Network Adapters?
A
Verify cable integrity, check link LEDs, review OS logs for error counters, update firmware and drivers, and use diagnostic tools like Lenovo XClarity Controller to isolate faults.
