The 30 best network card brands
HP, Dell and Intel lead our ranking of 30 network card brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Network Card brands, ranked
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1
HP
HP makes network interface cards for its servers and workstations, including Ethernet adapters sold under the HP NC series.
Website: hpl.hp.com |Brands like HP
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Dell
Dell sells server and desktop network adapters, many built with Broadcom or Intel controllers under the Dell name.
Website: dell.com |Brands like Dell
Popularity 8.6/10
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3
Intel
Intel makes Ethernet network adapters for desktops, workstations, and servers, ranging from 1GbE to 100GbE.
Website: intel.com |Brands like Intel
Popularity 7.8/10
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4
IBM
IBM historically offered server network adapters, often built with partners, though its current networking hardware focus has shifted.
Website: ibm.com |Brands like IBM
Popularity 6.1/10
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5
Lenovo
Lenovo sells ThinkSystem and ThinkStation network adapters for its servers and workstations, often sourced from Broadcom or Intel.
Website: lenovo.com |Brands like Lenovo
Popularity 4.6/10
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6
Q-Logic
QLogic makes Fibre Channel and Ethernet host bus and network adapters for enterprise storage and server environments.
Website: qlogicenclosures.com |Brands like Q-Logic
Popularity 4.0/10
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7
Cisco
Cisco makes network interface cards for its servers and routers, along with Ethernet and virtual adapters for data centers.
Website: cisco.com |Brands like Cisco
Popularity 3.7/10
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8
Broadcom
Broadcom makes Ethernet controller chips and network adapters used in servers, PCs, and networking equipment.
Website: broadcom.com |Brands like Broadcom
Popularity 3.5/10
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9
D-Link
D-Link makes wired and wireless network adapters, including PCI, PCIe, and USB cards for home and small office use.
Website: eu.dlink.com |Brands like D-Link
Popularity 3.2/10
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10
Mellanox
Mellanox makes InfiniBand and Ethernet network adapters for high-performance computing and data center servers.
Website: mellanox.com |Brands like Mellanox
Popularity 3.1/10
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11
Linksys
Linksys makes wireless network adapters, including USB and PCI cards for home computers and small networks.
Website: linksys.com |Brands like Linksys
Popularity 2.5/10
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12
HPE
HPE makes server network adapters and Ethernet cards for its ProLiant and other enterprise server lines.
Website: hpeactivewear.com |Brands like HPE
Popularity 2.4/10
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13
Realtek
Realtek makes Ethernet and wireless controller chips widely used in motherboards and add-in network cards.
Website: realtek.com |Brands like Realtek
Popularity 2.3/10
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14
Fujitsu
Fujitsu makes server network adapters and LAN cards for its PRIMERGY and other enterprise server systems.
Website: fujitsu.com |Brands like Fujitsu
Popularity 2.2/10
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15
Supermicro
Supermicro is a worldwide cloud server market leader, offering complete end-to-end data center solutions geared for performance, efficiency, and flexibility. They bring innovation to the world's most innovative organizations with their wide variety of servers, storage solutions, and strong collaborations...
Website: supermicro.com |Brands like Supermicro
Popularity 1.9/10
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16
SMC
SMC historically made Ethernet and wireless network adapters for PCs and small business networks.
Website: smccandles.co.uk |Brands like SMC
Popularity 1.8/10
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17
Chelsio
Chelsio makes high-performance 10GbE to 100GbE network adapters for data centers and storage networks.
Website: chelsio.com |Brands like Chelsio
Popularity 1.5/10
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18
Allied Telesis
Allied Telesis makes network switches and media converters, and also offers some Ethernet network interface cards.
Website: alliedtelesis.com |Brands like Allied Telesis
Popularity 1.4/10
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19
Sierra Wireless
Sierra Wireless makes cellular modules and embedded wireless cards, including mobile broadband cards for laptops.
Website: sierrawireless.com |Brands like Sierra Wireless
Popularity 1.4/10
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20
Solarflare
Solarflare made low-latency Ethernet network adapters for financial trading and high-performance server environments.
Website: support.solarflare.com |Brands like Solarflare
Popularity 1.3/10
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21
ATTO
ATTO makes Fibre Channel, SAS, and Ethernet host adapters for storage and media workflows.
Website: atto.com |Brands like ATTO
Popularity 1.2/10
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22
EDIMAX
EDIMAX makes wired and wireless network adapters, including USB and PCI cards for home and small office use.
Website: edimax.com |Brands like EDIMAX
Popularity 1.1/10
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23
TRENDnet
TRENDnet makes wired and wireless network adapters, including PCIe and USB cards for home and business networks.
Website: trendnet.com |Brands like TRENDnet
Popularity 1.1/10
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24
PORT
PORTS is a clothing brand with all different styles of wearables for both men and women. The company believes in dressing well yet simply. They keep up with the modern trends, but they have always added a hint of their...
Website: en.ports-intl.com |Brands like PORT
Popularity 1.1/10
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25
USRobotics
USRobotics historically made modems and network adapters for PCs, including ISA, PCI, and USB networking cards.
Website: usrobotics.com |Brands like USRobotics
Popularity 1.0/10
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26
EDUP
EDUP is an electronics technology firm based in Shenzhen founded in 2004 to export dependable networking devices and accessories worldwide. Recently, wifi, USB adapters for all business and home use, routers, repeaters, and Bluetooth music receivers for studio step-ups have...
Website: szedup.com |Brands like EDUP
Popularity 0.9/10
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27
DIGITUS
DIGITUS, the Assmann brand, makes network cards, cables, and networking accessories for home and office use.
Website: digitus.info |Brands like DIGITUS
Popularity 0.9/10
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28
Syba
Syba makes PCI and PCIe expansion cards, including network and serial adapters for desktop computers.
Website: sybausa.com |Brands like Syba
Popularity 0.8/10
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29
Rosewill
Rosewill makes PC components, including PCI and PCIe network adapters sold mainly through online retailers.
Website: rosewillhome.com |Brands like Rosewill
Popularity 0.8/10
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30
SIIG
SIIG makes add-in I/O cards, including network, serial, and USB expansion cards for desktop computers.
Website: siig.com |Brands like SIIG
Popularity 0.8/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP | hpl.hp.com | – | – | – | – |
| Dell | dell.com | – | – | – | – |
| Intel | intel.com | /IntelIndia | intelindia | @IntelIndia | – |
| IBM | ibm.com | – | – | – | – |
| Lenovo | lenovo.com | /LenovoIndia | lenovo_india | @lenovo_in | LenovoVision |
| Q-Logic | qlogicenclosures.com | /qlogicenclosures | qlogicaudio | @qlogicaudio | – |
| Cisco | cisco.com | – | – | – | – |
| Broadcom | broadcom.com | – | – | – | – |
| D-Link | eu.dlink.com | – | – | – | – |
| Mellanox | mellanox.com | /NVIDIA | nvidia | @nvidia | nvidia |
Network Cards Buying Guide
Network cards, also known as network interface cards (NICs), are the hardware components that connect your computer to a network. These cards are essential for any computer that needs to communicate with other devices over a network, whether it's a home network or a business network.
Choosing the right network card for your computer can be a challenging process. There are several different types of network cards, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this guide, we will take a look at some of the factors you should consider when purchasing a network card, and we will also provide you with some helpful tips to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Network Cards
When it comes to choosing a network card, there are several different types to choose from:
- Ethernet Network Cards: These are the most common type of network cards and are used to connect computers to wired Ethernet networks.
- Wireless Network Cards: These cards are used to connect computers to wireless networks. They can be either integrated into a computer or purchased as an add-on card.
- USB Network Adapters: These adapters connect to a computer's USB port to provide Ethernet or wireless connectivity.
The type of network card you choose will depend on your specific needs. If you are looking to connect your computer to a wired network, then an Ethernet network card is the most logical choice. If, however, you need to connect your computer to a wireless network, then a wireless network card or a USB network adapter may be a better choice.
Speed and Performance
The speed and performance of a network card are essential factors to consider when purchasing a network card.
The speed of a network card is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). The higher the speed of the network card, the faster data can be transmitted over the network. If you plan on transferring large files or streaming video, then a higher-speed network card is essential.
The performance of a network card is also impacted by factors such as the distance between the computer and the network, the quality of the wiring or wireless signal, and the number of devices connected to the network. When choosing a network card, it's essential to consider these factors and select a card that will provide the necessary speed and performance for your specific needs.
Compatibility
Compatibility is another important factor to consider when purchasing a network card. Not all network cards are compatible with all computers or operating systems. Before purchasing a network card, make sure that it is compatible with your computer and operating system. You should also check to see if the card requires any specific drivers or software to function correctly.
Warranty and Support
The warranty and support offered by the manufacturer of the network card are also essential factors to consider when making a purchase.
A network card can be a complex piece of hardware, and it's essential to purchase from a manufacturer that provides a robust warranty and support service. A warranty will provide you with peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with your network card, you can get it repaired or replaced without incurring additional costs.
It's also essential to select a network card from a reputable manufacturer that provides excellent customer support. Good customer support will help you to troubleshoot any issues you may encounter with your network card and ensure that you get the maximum benefits from your investment.
Price
The price of a network card is, of course, an important factor to consider when making a purchase. However, it's important to remember that the cheapest option is not always the best option.
Investing in a high-quality network card may cost more upfront, but it can save you money in the long run. A high-quality network card is likely to last longer and provide better performance, which can save you money on repairs and upgrades in the future.
Conclusion
Choosing the right network card is an important decision that can impact the performance and usability of your computer. When making a purchase, consider the type of network you will be connecting to, the speed and performance requirements, compatibility with your computer and operating system, warranty and support, and price. By considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a network card that will meet your specific needs and provide you with years of reliable performance.
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Ethernet Network Cards | Most common type of network card, reliable, high-speed, low latency connections | Requires a physical connection to a network, can be difficult to install in laptops, not suitable for mobile devices |
| Wireless Network Cards | Convenient, suitable for mobile devices, no physical connection required | Can be slower and less reliable than Ethernet connections, range can be limited, interference from other wireless devices can impact performance |
| USB Network Adapters | Easy to install, can be used with computers that lack built-in network cards, convenient for travel | Can be slower than built-in network cards, USB port may not provide enough power for the adapter, may require additional driver installation |
