Intel i226-V Gigabit 2.5G Ethernet Server NIC Card - 30CM M.2 A+E Key Interface for Enhanced Network Speeds,Support youyeetoo X1 X86 SBC

Used in a Dell Optiplex Small Form Factor 7070. Just had to download drivers and good! Now I have and extra pci slot free! Cable provided is perfect length to reach all the way back there.

Bought this to use as a second interface in a Lenovo ThinkCenter M910q micro form factor PC for OpnSense firewall. Replaced the original WiFi card with this and it just works. OpnSense recognized the interface and is fully functional.

This is the NIC to buy if you need to add one in a mini device like an OPNsense router or Plex server. Intel controller is genuine and the usual prod driver has been 100% solid since installation in both my Windows Plex server and OPNsense home router. Faster, cooler running, and way better build quality in this adapter versus the gigabit Realtek ones.

I must say I am very pleased with this M.2 A+E 2.5Gbps network adapter. I am using it in a server built on a thin client with an M.2 slot meant for an optional WiFi card. The adapter slid easily into the slot, and the included RJ45 port bracket fit right in the thin client's accessory port cut out. The adapter was detected by the hypervisor on power up, no driver installation required. The NIC has been functioning without issue, and speed is as expected. The price for this Intel adapter is a bit higher than a comparable Realtek unit, but it's certainly reasonable and well worth it for my use case.