10G ethernet and Cat6

[Guest]

How well are the RJ45 versions of 10G ethernet adapters working with pfSense I am looking at using Intel X540-T2 adapters for a backbone. Are the Dell branded versions OK? They appear around $230 new on ebay.

Is there any real world differences in the different 10G interfaces(cat6,cx4,sfp) at shorter length runs(20m-40meters)?Should i avoid CAT6?

[heper]

cat6 is only rated for 10G at max 30 meters.

you'd need >=cat6a if you want to go further then 30 meters.

pfSense currently sells chelsio nics: http://store.pfsense.org/Chelsio-T520-SO-CR/

[Guest]

How well are the RJ45 versions of 10G ethernet adapters working with pfSense I am looking at using Intel X540-T2 adapters for a backbone.

All would depends on the support of the chips on this cards.

Are the Dell branded versions OK? They appear around $230 new on ebay.

If they have not a special firmware on them, they could work for sure.

Is there any real world differences in the different 10G interfaces(cat6,cx4,sfp) at shorter
length runs(20m-40meters)?

Only the price difference I see here.

Should i avoid CAT6?

Depends on the area of application!
in the rack:
Should be not a problem
CAT.6a cables, cards and switches

in the (one) building:
Is more difficult, related to the whole equipment must be CAT.6a.
Cat.6a patch panels
Cat.6a patch cables
Cat.6a network plug in the wall
Cat.6a network cable in the wall

over several buildings:
SFP+ and fiber cables are a must be related to the potential barrier.

[mevans336]

The Dell versions don't any special firmware on them, so no worries there. They seem to support LAGG and the traffic shaper as well.

I haven't thrown them onto the network I have that is capable of pushing 20Gbps through the LAGG, but I'll report back when I do.