10G ethernet and Cat6
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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?
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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/
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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 switchesin 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 wallover several buildings:
SFP+ and fiber cables are a must be related to the potential barrier. -
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.