Description
Upgrade Your Desktop to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet in Minutes
The TP-Link TX201 is a 2.5 Gigabit PCIe network adapter that upgrades any desktop PC or server with a PCIe slot to 2.5GBase-T Ethernet — delivering speeds 2.5× faster than standard Gigabit without replacing your existing Cat5e or Cat6 cabling. Backwards compatible with 1Gbps, 100Mbps, and 10Mbps networks, it's a straightforward, cost-effective upgrade for NAS transfers, high-speed internet access, gaming, and multi-gigabit switch connections across Australia.
Key Features
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2.5Gbps Ethernet Speed: Delivers up to 2.5 Gigabits per second — 2.5× faster than standard Gigabit Ethernet — for faster local file transfers, NAS access, and internet connections.
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Backwards Compatible (Multi-Speed): Automatically negotiates between 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, 100Mbps, and 10Mbps — works seamlessly with your existing network infrastructure without replacing switches or cabling.
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Works with Existing Cat5e/Cat6 Cabling: 2.5GBase-T runs over standard Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable up to 100m — no new cabling required in most installations.
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Low-Profile & Full-Height Brackets Included: Both standard and low-profile brackets are included in the box, making it compatible with full-size tower PCs and compact mini-tower cases.
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QoS Support: Quality of Service technology prioritises bandwidth for latency-sensitive applications such as gaming and video streaming, reducing congestion on shared networks.
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Broad OS Compatibility: Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server 2022/2019/2016/2012 R2/2012/2008 R2, and Linux.
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PCIe Interface: Installs into any available PCIe slot on a desktop motherboard — no USB adapters or external power required.
Common Use Cases
- Upgrading a desktop PC or workstation to 2.5G for faster NAS and local network transfers
- Connecting to a 2.5G or multi-gig switch (e.g. TP-Link Deco X50-PoE backhaul) for full-speed wired performance
- Gaming PCs requiring low-latency, high-bandwidth wired Ethernet connections
- Home servers and media PCs handling large file transfers and 4K video streaming
- Adding a network port to a PC with a failed or insufficient onboard NIC
- Windows Server environments requiring faster LAN throughput without infrastructure changes
Technical Specifications
| Model |
TX201 |
| Interface |
PCIe |
| Network Port |
1× RJ45 |
| Ethernet Standard |
2.5GBase-T (IEEE 802.3bz) |
| Supported Speeds |
2.5Gbps / 1Gbps / 100Mbps / 10Mbps |
| Cable Type |
Cat5e or above (up to 100m) |
| QoS |
Yes |
| Brackets Included |
Full-height & low-profile |
| OS Support |
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server 2022–2008 R2, Linux |
| Weight |
170g |
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my Ethernet cables to use 2.5G speeds?
No. 2.5GBase-T runs over standard Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable up to 100m — the same cabling used for Gigabit Ethernet. If your existing cabling is Cat5e or better, you can achieve full 2.5Gbps speeds without any rewiring.
Will it work with my existing Gigabit switch?
Yes. The TX201 is backwards compatible and will automatically negotiate to 1Gbps when connected to a standard Gigabit switch. To achieve 2.5Gbps speeds, both the adapter and the connected switch or router port must support 2.5GBase-T (e.g. TP-Link TL-SG105-M2 or Deco X50-PoE).
Which PCIe slot does it use?
The TX201 uses a PCIe x1 slot (or larger — PCIe x4, x8, x16 slots are also compatible). Check your motherboard for an available PCIe slot before purchasing. It does not require an external power connector.
Is it compatible with Linux?
Yes. The TX201 supports Linux in addition to Windows 7 through 11 and Windows Server editions from 2008 R2 to 2022. Check the TP-Link product page for the latest driver downloads for your specific Linux distribution.
Can I use it in a mini-ITX or compact PC case?
Yes. A low-profile bracket is included in the box alongside the standard full-height bracket, making the TX201 compatible with compact mini-tower and small form factor PC cases that require a low-profile card.
Is this suitable for a NAS or home server?
Yes. The TX201 is an excellent upgrade for desktop-based NAS builds or home servers, enabling 2.5Gbps LAN transfers to other 2.5G-capable devices on your network. Combined with a 2.5G switch, it significantly reduces transfer times for large files, backups, and media libraries.
