Description
Upgrade Your Desktop to 10 Gigabit Wired Networking
The TP-Link TX401 is a 10GBase-T PCI Express network adapter that upgrades your desktop PC or workstation to 10 Gigabit wired networking — delivering speeds up to 10× faster than standard Gigabit adapters. Using standard Cat6A Ethernet cable (included), it connects to any 10GbE switch or NAS device for ultra-fast local data transfers, NVR streaming, and high-bandwidth applications. Backwards compatible with 1Gbps and 100Mbps networks, and includes both standard and low-profile brackets for flexible installation.
Key Features
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10Gbps 10GBase-T Networking — up to 10× faster than standard Gigabit adapters for local data transfers and high-bandwidth applications
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Backwards Compatible — auto-negotiates between 10Gbps, 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, and 100Mbps for compatibility with existing network infrastructure
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1.5m CAT6A Ethernet Cable Included — rated for 10Gbps; required for full 10GbE performance (standard Cat5e/Cat6 cables are limited to 1Gbps)
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Low-Profile and Full-Height Brackets — both brackets included for compatibility with standard ATX and mini tower PC cases
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PCI Express Interface — installs into any available PCIe x4 or x8 slot on a desktop motherboard
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Broad OS Support — compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server 2019/2016/2012 R2, and Linux
- 3-Year Warranty
Typical Use Cases
- Connecting a desktop workstation to a 10GbE NAS for fast file transfers and media editing
- High-speed local network connections for video surveillance servers and NVR workstations
- Upgrading a home lab or server to 10 Gigabit networking
- Connecting to a 10GbE switch for multi-gigabit LAN performance
- Replacing a failed or slow onboard NIC with a dedicated 10GbE adapter
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Detail |
| Model |
TX401 |
| Interface |
PCI Express (PCIe x4) |
| Network Standard |
10GBase-T (IEEE 802.3an) |
| Network Port |
1× RJ45 |
| Supported Speeds |
10Gbps, 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, 100Mbps |
| Cable Requirement |
Cat6A (for 10Gbps); Cat5e/Cat6 (for 1Gbps) |
| Included Cable |
1.5m CAT6A Ethernet cable |
| Brackets Included |
Full-height and low-profile |
| OS Support |
Windows 10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server 2019/2016/2012 R2, Linux |
| Certifications |
CE, FCC, RoHS |
| Warranty |
3 Years |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a special cable for 10Gbps speeds?
- Yes. To achieve 10Gbps speeds, you must use Cat6A (or Cat7/Cat8) Ethernet cable. Standard Cat5e and Cat6 cables are limited to 1Gbps at typical installation lengths. A 1.5m Cat6A cable is included in the box.
- Which PCIe slot does the TX401 require?
- The TX401 uses a PCIe x4 interface. It can be installed in any PCIe x4, x8, or x16 slot on your motherboard. It will not fit in a PCIe x1 slot.
- Is the TX401 compatible with my existing Gigabit network?
- Yes. The TX401 is backwards compatible and will auto-negotiate to 1Gbps (or 100Mbps) when connected to a standard Gigabit switch or router. You only need a 10GbE switch to take advantage of the full 10Gbps speed.
- Does the TX401 work with macOS?
- The TX401 officially supports Windows and Linux. macOS is not listed as a supported operating system. Check TP-Link’s support page for the latest driver availability before purchasing for Mac use.
- Can I use the TX401 to connect to a 10GbE NAS?
- Yes. This is one of the most common use cases. Connect the TX401 in your PC to a 10GbE NAS (or via a 10GbE switch) using Cat6A cable for dramatically faster file transfers compared to standard Gigabit connections.
