StarTech.com 2-Port GbE SFP Network Card, PCIe 2.0 x1, Intel I350-AM2 2x 1GbE Controller, 1000BASE Copper/Fiber Optic, Dual-Port Gigabit Ethernet NIC, Desktop/Server Backplanes - Windows and Linux Compatible

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

For £123 ex-VAT, this is a sensible pick if you need a simple, reliable way to add two 1GbE ports to a server or workstation—especially if you’re comfortable using SFPs. The Intel i350 chipset is the main reason to consider it: Intel drivers and stability tend to be better than the “mystery vendor” NICs you sometimes see at this price point, and it’s usually painless on Windows and Linux. If your use case is “add network ports for virtualization hosts, small servers, lab gear, or a change of media (copper to fibre) without drama”, it’s the kind of card that just gets on with the job.

Why you might *not* buy it: at this cost, you’re paying for dual-port + Intel + SFP flexibility, so if you only need one copper port (or you’re aiming for cheap plain RJ45), there are often better value options. Also, check your chassis/backplane and SFP plan before committing—SFP NICs are great, but they’re only as good as the optics/cabling you pair them with, and you don’t want to discover incompatibility after the fact. If you need higher speeds than 1GbE, this won’t fit the bill; but for straightforward 1GbE networking, it’s a solid, no-nonsense buy.