This article covers LinksTek PCI Express X1インターフェース.

Overview

The LinksTek PCIE-I225 is a PCI Express X1 network adapter that brings 2.5Gbps Ethernet to your desktop PC. Powered by the Intel I225V controller, it delivers up to 2.5 times the bandwidth of standard Gigabit Ethernet (1Gbps), making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as large file transfers, 4K video streaming, and online gaming. Install it into any free PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, x16) and enjoy low-latency, reliable wired connectivity without the overhead of USB adapters. Unlike cheaper USB-based solutions, this card leverages the PCIe bus for consistent throughput and reduced CPU utilization. It ships with both full-height and low-profile brackets, ensuring compatibility with standard desktop towers and slim chassis alike. Driver support covers Windows 10/11 64-bit and Windows Server 2019/2022.

Connectivity & Compatibility

This adapter uses a PCI Express X1 lane interface. It is physically compatible with PCIe x1, x2, x4, x8, and x16 slots (provided the chassis has room). The PCIe 3.0 x1 bandwidth (~1 GB/s) easily handles 2.5Gbps, so no bottleneck occurs. For best performance, use Cat 6 or higher Ethernet cables and a switch/router that supports 2.5GBASE-T. Wake-on-LAN (WoL), Jumbo Frames (up to 9.5KB), and IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol are supported. Checksum offloading (TCP/UDP, IPv4) and TSO (IPv4/IPv6) reduce CPU load. Note that Linux and macOS are not officially supported.

Product Info

Released around 2023, the PCIE-I225 is priced at approximately ¥5,500 (tax included) on Japan. It comes with a standard one-year warranty. In the box you'll find the network card, a low-profile bracket, and a driver CD/download guide. This product occupies the mid-range tier of 2.5Gbps NICs: it offers Intel-grade reliability at a fraction of the cost of ASUS or TP-Link models, while remaining slightly pricier than entry-level Realtek cards.

Best Use Cases

NAS and file server users: Pair with a 2.5Gbps NAS to cut backup times and improve multi-user access to large media libraries. Streamers and online gamers: Combine with a high-end GPU like the RTX 4070 for stable, low-latency uploads during live broadcasts or competitive multiplayer matches. * Small office / home lab setups: Connect multiple PCs via a 2.5Gbps switch for fast file sharing, VM migration, and collaborative editing. This card is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to upgrade to 2.5Gbps on a budget. Just remember you'll also need 2.5Gbps-capable networking gear (switch, router) to realize the speed gain.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: LinksTek Co,Ltd
  • Brand: LinksTek
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B0BNQX8H38
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.