Intel Ethernet Adapters and Devices

User Guide
Overview
Welcome to the User's Guide for Intel Ethernet Adapters and devices. This guide covers hardware and
software installation, setup procedures, and troubleshooting tips for Intel network adapters, connections, and
other devices.

Installing the Network Adapter

If you are installing a network adapter, follow this procedure from step 1.
If you are upgrading the driver software, start with step 5 .
1. Make sure that you are installing the latest driver software for your adapter. Visit Intel's support web-
site to download the latest drivers.
2. Review system requirements.
3. Insert the adapter(s) in the computer.
4. Attach the copper or fiber network cable(s).
5. Install the driver.
6. For Windows systems, install the Intel PROSet software.
If you have any problems with basic installation, see Troubleshooting.
You can now set up advanced features, if necessary. The available features and the configuration process
varies with the adapter and your operating system.

Before You Begin

Supported Devices
For help identifying your network device and finding supported devices, click the link below:
http://www.intel.com/support

Compatibility Notes

In order for an adapter based on the XL710 controller to reach its full potential, you must install it in a PCIe
Gen3 x8 slot. Installing it in a shorter slot, or a Gen2 or Gen1 slot, will limit the throughput of the adapter.
Some older Intel Ethernet Adapters do not have full software support for the most recent versions of
Microsoft Windows*. Many older Intel Ethernet Adapters have base drivers supplied by Microsoft Windows.
Lists of supported devices per OS are available at
http://www.intel.com/support/go/network/adapter/nicoscomp.htm

Supported Operating Systems

Supported 32-bit Operating Systems

NOTE: Microsoft* Windows* 32-bit operating systems are only supported on Intel 1GbE Ethernet
Adapters and slower devices. All adapters support 32-bit versions of Linux* and FreeBSD*.

Basic software and drivers are supported on the following operating systems:
l DOS
l SunSoft* Solaris* (drivers and support are provided by the operating system vendor)
Advanced software and drivers are supported on the following operating systems:
l Microsoft Windows 7
l Microsoft Windows 8
l Microsoft Windows 8.1
l Microsoft Windows 10
l Linux*, v2.4 kernel or higher
l FreeBSD*

Supported Intel 64 Architecture Operating Systems

l Microsoft* Windows* 7
l Microsoft Windows 8
l Microsoft Windows 8.1
l Microsoft Windows 10
l Microsoft* Windows Server* 2008 R2
l Microsoft Windows Server 2012
l Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2
l Microsoft Windows Server 2016
l Microsoft Windows Server 2016 Nano Server
l VMWare ESXi 5.5
l VMWare* ESXi* 6.0
l VMWare ESXi 6.5
l Red Hat* Linux*
l Novell* SUSE* Linux
l FreeBSD*

Supported Operating Systems for Itanium-based Systems

l Linux, v2.x kernel and higher, except v2.6

Some older Intel Ethernet Adapters do not have full software support for the most recent versions of
Microsoft Windows*. Many older Intel Ethernet Adapters have base drivers supplied by Microsoft Windows.
Lists of supported devices per OS are available at
http://www.intel.com/support/go/network/adapter/nicoscomp.htm

Hardware Compatibility
Before installing the adapter, check your system for the following:
l The latest BIOS for your system
l One open PCI Express slot

NOTE: The Intel 10 Gigabit AT Server Adapter will only fit into x8 or larger PCI Express slots.
Some systems have physical x8 PCI Express slots that actually support lower speeds. Please
check your system manual to identify the slot.
Cabling Requirements
Intel Gigabit Adapters

Fiber Optic Cables

l Laser wavelength: 850 nanometer (not visible).
l SC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
l Connector type: SC.
l LC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
l Connector type: LC.
Copper Cables
l 1000BASE-T or 100BASE-TX on Category 5 or Category 5e wiring, twisted 4-pair copper:
l Make sure you use Category 5 cabling that complies with the TIA-568 wiring specification. For
more information on this specification, see the Telecommunications Industry Association's web
site: www.tiaonline.org.
l Maximum Length is 100 meters.
l Category 3 wiring supports only 10 Mbps.

NOTE: To insure compliance with CISPR 24 and the EUs EN55024, devices based on the 82576
controller should be used only with CAT 5E shielded cables that are properly terminated according
to the recommendations in EN50174-2.

Intel 10 Gigabit Adapters

Fiber Optic Cables

l Laser wavelength: 850 nanometer (not visible).
l SC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
l Connector type: SC.
l LC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
Connector type: LC.
l

Copper Cables
l Maximum lengths for Intel 10 Gigabit Server Adapters and Connections that use 10GBASE-T on Cat-
egory 6, Category 6a, or Category 7 wiring, twisted 4-pair copper:
l Maximum length for Category 6 is 55 meters.
l Maximum length for Category 6a is 100 meters.
l Maximum length for Category 7 is 100 meters.
 l To ensure compliance with CISPR 24 and the EU's EN55024, Intel 10 Gigabit Server
Adapters and Connections should be used only with CAT 6a shielded cables that are properly
terminated according to the recommendations in EN50174-2.
l 10 Gigabit Ethernet over SFP+ Direct Attached Cable (Twinaxial)
l Length is 10 meters max.

Intel 40 Gigabit Adapters

Fiber Optic Cables

l Laser wavelength: 850 nanometer (not visible).
l SC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
l Connector type: SC.
l LC Cable type:
l Multi-mode fiber with 50 micron core diameter; maximum length is 550 meters.
l Multi-mode fiber with 62.5 micron core diameter; maximum length is 275 meters.
l Connector type: LC.
Copper Cables
l 40 Gigabit Ethernet over SFP+ Direct Attached Cable (Twinaxial)
l Length is 7 meters max

Installation Overview
Installing the Adapter
1. Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the computer cover and the adapter slot cover from the slot that matches your adapter.
3. Insert the adapter edge connector into the slot and secure the bracket to the chassis.
4. Replace the computer cover, then plug in the power cord.

Install Drivers and Software

Windows* Operating Systems

You must have administrative rights to the operating system to install the drivers.
1. Download the latest drivers from the support website and transfer them to the system.
2. If the Found New Hardware Wizard screen is displayed, click Cancel.
3. Start the autorun located in the downloaded the software package. The autorun may automatically start
after you have extracted the files.
4. Click Install Drivers and Software.
5. Follow the instructions in the install wizard.
Installing Linux* Drivers from Source Code

1. Download and expand the base driver tar file.

2. Compile the driver module.
3. Install the module using the modprobe command.
4. Assign an IP address using the ifconfig command.

Optimizing Performance
You can configure Intel network adapter advanced settings to help optimize server performance.
The examples below provide guidance for three server usage models:
l Optimized for quick response and low latency useful for video, audio, and High Performance Com-
puting Cluster (HPCC) servers
l Optimized for throughput useful for data backup/retrieval and file servers
l Optimized for CPU utilization useful for application, web, mail, and database servers

NOTES:
l The recommendations below are guidelines and should be treated as such. Additional factors
such as installed applications, bus type, network topology, and operating system also affect
system performance.
l These adjustments should be performed by a highly skilled network administrator. They are
not guaranteed to improve performance. Not all settings shown here may be available
through network driver configuration, operating system or system BIOS. Linux users, see the
README file in the Linux driver package for Linux-specific performance enhancement
details.
l When using performance test software, refer to the documentation of the application for
optimal results.

General Optimization
l Install the adapter in an appropriate slot.

NOTE: Some PCIe x8 slots are actually configured as x4 slots. These slots have insufficient
bandwidth for full line rate with some dual port devices. The driver can detect this situation
and will write the following message in the system log: PCI-Express bandwidth available for
this card is not sufficient for optimal performance. For optimal performance a x8 PCI-
Express slot is required.If this error occurs, moving your adapter to a true x8 slot will resolve
the issue.

l In order for an Intel X710/XL710 based Network Adapter to reach its full potential, you must install it
in a PCIe Gen3 x8 slot. Installing it in a shorter slot, or a Gen2 or Gen1 slot, will impact the throughput
the adapter can attain.
l Use the proper cabling for your device.
l Enable Jumbo Packets, if your other network components can also be configured for it.
l Increase the number of TCP and Socket resources from the default value. For Windows based sys-
tems, we have not identified system parameters other than the TCP Window Size which significantly
impact performance.
 l Increase the allocation size of Driver Resources (transmit/receive buffers). However, most TCP traffic
patterns work best with the transmit buffer set to its default value, and the receive buffer set to its min-
imum value.
l When passing traffic on multiple network ports using an I/O application that runs on most or all of the
cores in your system, consider setting the CPU Affinity for that application to fewer cores. This should
reduce CPU utilization and in some cases may increase throughput for the device. The cores selected
for CPU Affinity must be local to the affected network device's Processor Node/Group. You can use
the PowerShell command Get-NetAdapterRSS to list the cores that are local to a device. You may
need to increase the number of cores assigned to the application to maximize throughput. Refer to your
operating system documentation for more details on setting the CPU Affinity.
l If you have multiple 10 Gpbs (or faster) ports installed in a system, the RSS queues of each adapter
port can be adjusted to use non-overlapping sets of processors within the adapter's local NUMA
Node/Socket. Change the RSS Base Processor Number for each adapter port so that the combination
of the base processor and the max number of RSS processors settings ensure non-overlapping cores.
1. Identify the adapter ports to be adjusted and inspect at their RssProcessorArray using the
Get-NetAdapterRSS PowerShell cmdlet.
2. Identify the processors with NUMA distance 0. These are the cores in the adapter's local
NUMA Node/Socket and will provide the best performance.
3. Adjust the RSS Base processor on each port to use a non-overlapping set of processors within
the local set of processors. You can do this manually or using the following PowerShell com-
mand:
Set-NetAdapterAdvancedProperty -Name <Adapter Name> -DisplayName
"RSS Base
Processor Number" -DisplayValue <RSS Base Proc Value>
4. Use the Get-NetAdpaterAdvancedproperty cmdlet to check that the right values have been set:
Get-NetAdpaterAdvancedproperty -Name <Adapter Name>

For Example: For a 4 port adapter with Local processors 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22,
24, 26, 28, 30, and 'Max RSS processor' of 8, set the RSS base processors to 0, 8, 16 and 24.

Optimized for quick response and low latency

l Minimize or disable Interrupt Moderation Rate.
l Disable Offload TCP Segmentation.
l Disable Jumbo Packets.
l Increase Transmit Descriptors.
l Increase Receive Descriptors.
l Increase RSS Queues.

Optimized for throughput

l Enable Jumbo Packets.
l Increase Transmit Descriptors.
l Increase Receive Descriptors.
l On systems that support NUMA, set the Preferred NUMA Node on each adapter to achieve better scal-
ing across NUMA nodes.
Optimized for CPU utilization
l Maximize Interrupt Moderation Rate.
l Keep the default setting for the number of Receive Descriptors; avoid setting large numbers of Receive
Descriptors.
l Decrease RSS Queues.
l In Hyper-V environments, decrease the Max number of RSS CPUs.

Remote Storage
The remote storage features allow you to access a SAN or other networked storage using Ethernet protocols.
This includes Data Center Bridging (DCB), iSCSI over DCB, and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE).

DCB (Data Center Bridging)

Data Center Bridging (DCB) is a collection of standards-based extensions to classical Ethernet. It provides a
lossless data center transport layer that enables the convergence of LANs and SANs onto a single unified
fabric.
Furthermore, DCB is a configuration Quality of Service implementation in hardware. It uses the VLAN priority
tag (802.1p) to filter traffic. That means that there are 8 different priorities that traffic can be filtered into. It also
enables priority flow control (802.1Qbb) which can limit or eliminate the number of dropped packets during
network stress. Bandwidth can be allocated to each of these priorities, which is enforced at the hardware level
(802.1Qaz).
Adapter firmware implements LLDP and DCBX protocol agents as per 802.1AB and 802.1Qaz respectively.
The firmware based DCBX agent runs in willing mode only and can accept settings from a DCBX capable
peer. Software configuration of DCBX parameters via dcbtool/lldptool are not supported.

iSCSI Over DCB

Intel Ethernet adapters support iSCSI software initiators that are native to the underlying operating system.
In the case of Windows, the Microsoft iSCSI Software Initiator, enables connection of a Windows host to an
external iSCSI storage array using an Intel Ethernet adapter.
In the case of Open Source distributions, virtually all distributions include support for an Open iSCSI Software
Initiator and Intel Ethernet adapters will support them. Please consult your distribution documentation for
additional configuration details on their particular Open iSCSI initiator.
Intel 82599 and X540-based adapters support iSCSI within a Data Center Bridging cloud. Used in
conjunction with switches and targets that support the iSCSI/DCB application TLV, this solution can provide
guaranteed minimum bandwidth for iSCSI traffic between the host and target. This solution enables storage
administrators to segment iSCSI traffic from LAN traffic, similar to how they can currently segment FCoE
from LAN traffic. Previously, iSCSI traffic within a DCB supported environment was treated as LAN traffic by
switch vendors. Please consult your switch and target vendors to ensure that they support the iSCSI/DCB
application TLV.
Intel Ethernet FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet)
Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) is the encapsulation of standard Fibre Channel (FC) protocol frames as
data within standard Ethernet frames. This link-level encapsulation, teamed with an FCoE-aware Ethernet-to-
FC gateway, acts to extend an FC fabric to include Ethernet-based host connectivity. The FCoE specification
focuses on encapsulation of FC frames specific to storage class traffic, as defined by the Fibre Channel FC-4
FCP specification.

NOTE: Support for new operating systems will not be added to FCoE. The last operating system
versions that support FCoE are as follows:
l Microsoft*Windows Server* 2012 R2
l RHEL 7.2
l RHEL 6.7
l SLES 12 SP1
l SLES 11 SP4
l VMware* ESX 6.0

Jumbo Frames

The base driver supports FCoE mini-Jumbo Frames (2.5k bytes) independent of the LAN Jumbo Frames
setting.

FCoE VN to VN (VN2VN) Support

FCoE VN to VN, also called VN2VN, is a standard for connecting two end-nodes (ENodes) directly using
FCoE. An ENode can create a VN2VN virtual link with another remote ENode by not connecting to FC or
FCoE switches (FCFs) in between, so neither port zoning nor advance fibre channel services is required. The
storage software controls access to, and security of, LUNs using LUN masking. The VN2VN fabric may have
a lossless Ethernet switch between the ENodes. This allows multiple ENodes to participate in creating more
than one VN2VN virtual link in the VN2VN fabric. VN2VN has two operational modes: Point to Point (PT2PT)
and Multipoint.

NOTE: The mode of operation is used only during initialization.

 Point to Point (PT2PT) Mode
In Point to Point mode, there are only two ENodes, and they are connected either directly or through a
lossless Ethernet switch:
 MultiPoint Mode
If more than two ENodes are detected in the VN2VN fabric, then all nodes should operate in Multipoint mode:

Enabling VN2VN in Microsoft Windows

To enable VN2VN in Microsoft Windows:
1. Start Windows Device Manager.
2. Open the appropriate FCoE miniport property sheet (generally under Storage controllers) and click on
the Advanced tab.
3. Select the VN2VN setting and choose "Enable."

Remote Boot
Remote Boot allows you to boot a system using only an Ethernet adapter. You connect to a server that
contains an operating system image and use that to boot your local system.

Intel Boot Agent

The Intel Boot Agent is a software product that allows your networked client computer to boot using a
program code image supplied by a remote server. Intel Boot Agent complies with the Pre-boot eXecution
Environment (PXE) Version 2.1 Specification. It is compatible with legacy boot agent environments that use
BOOTP protocol.

Supported Devices

Intel Boot Agent supports all Intel 10 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 Gigabit Ethernet, and PRO/100 Ethernet Adapters.
Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot
Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot provides the capability to boot a client system from a remote iSCSI disk volume
located on an iSCSI-based Storage Area Network (SAN).

NOTE: Release 20.6 is the last release in which Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot supports Intel Eth-
ernet Desktop Adapters and Network Connections. Starting with Release 20.7, Intel Ethernet
iSCSI Boot no longer supports Intel Ethernet Desktop Adapters and Network Connections.

Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot

Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot provides the capability to boot a client system from a remote disk volume located
on an Fibre Channel Storage Area Network (SAN).

Using Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager

There are two ways to navigate to the FCoE properties in Windows Device Manager: by using the "Data
Center" tab on the adapter property sheet or by using the Intel "Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for
FCoE Storage Controllers" property sheet.

Supported Devices

A list of Intel Ethernet Adapters that support FCoE can be found at

http://www.intel.com/support/go/network/adapter/fcoefaq.htm

Virtualization Support
Virtualization makes it possible for one or more operating systems to run simultaneously on the same physical
system as virtual machines. This allows you to consolidate several servers onto one system, even if they are
running different operating systems. Intel Network Adapters work with, and within, virtual machines with
their standard drivers and software.

NOTES:
l Some virtualization options are not available on some adapter/operating system com-
binations.
l The jumbo frame setting inside a virtual machine must be the same, or lower than, the setting
on the physical port.
l When you attach a Virtual Machine to a tenant overlay network through the Virtual NIC ports
on a Virtual Switch, the encapsulation headers increase the Maximum Transmission Unit
(MTU) size on the virtual port. The Encapsulation Overhead feature automatically adjusts the
physical port's MTU size to compensate for this increase.
l See http://www.intel.com/technology/advanced_comm/virtualization.htm for more inform-
ation on using Intel Network Adapters in virtualized environments.

Using Intel Network Adapters in a Microsoft* Hyper-V* Environment

When a Hyper-V Virtual NIC (VNIC) interface is created in the parent partition, the VNIC takes on the MAC
address of the underlying physical NIC. The same is true when a VNIC is created on a team or VLAN. Since
the VNIC uses the MAC address of the underlying interface, any operation that changes the MAC address of
the interface (for example, setting LAA on the interface, changing the primary adapter on a team, etc.), will
cause the VNIC to lose connectivity. In order to prevent this loss of connectivity, Intel PROSet will not allow
you to change settings that change the MAC address.

NOTES:
l If Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)/Data Center Bridging (DCB) is present on the port,
configuring the device in Virtual Machine Queue (VMQ) + DCB mode reduces the number of
VMQ VPorts available for guest OSes. This does not apply to Intel Ethernet Controller
X710 based devices.
l When sent from inside a virtual machine, LLDP and LACP packets may be a security risk.
The Intel Virtual Function driver blocks the transmission of such packets.
l The Virtualization setting on the Advanced tab of the adapter's Device Manager property
sheet is not available if the Hyper-V role is not installed.
l While Microsoft supports Hyper-V on the Windows* 8 client OS, Intel Ethernet adapters do
not support virtualization settings (VMQ, SR-IOV) on Windows 8 client.
l ANS teaming of VF devices inside a Windows 2008 R2 guest running on an open source
hypervisor is supported.

The Virtual Machine Switch

The virtual machine switch is part of the network I/O data path. It sits between the physical NIC and the
virtual machine NICs and routes packets to the correct MAC address. Enabling Virtual Machine Queue (VMQ)
offloading in Intel PROSet will automatically enable VMQ in the virtual machine switch. For driver-only
installations, you must manually enable VMQ in the virtual machine switch.

Using ANS VLANs

If you create ANS VLANs in the parent partition, and you then create a Hyper-V Virtual NIC interface on an
ANS VLAN, then the Virtual NIC interface *must* have the same VLAN ID as the ANS VLAN. Using a
different VLAN ID or not setting a VLAN ID on the Virtual NIC interface will result in loss of communication on
that interface.
Virtual Switches bound to an ANS VLAN will have the same MAC address as the VLAN, which will have the
same address as the underlying NIC or team. If you have several VLANs bound to a team and bind a virtual
switch to each VLAN, all of the virtual switches will have the same MAC address. Clustering the virtual
switches together will cause a network error in Microsofts cluster validation tool. In some cases, ignoring this
error will not impact the performance of the cluster. However, such a cluster is not supported by Microsoft.
Using Device Manager to give each of the virtual switches a unique address will resolve the issue. See the
Microsoft TechNet article Configure MAC Address Spoofing for Virtual Network Adapters for more
information.
Virtual Machine Queues (VMQ) and SR-IOV cannot be enabled on a Hyper-V Virtual NIC interface bound to a
VLAN configured using the VLANs tab in Windows Device Manager.

Using an ANS Team or VLAN as a Virtual NIC

If you want to use a team or VLAN as a virtual NIC you must follow these steps:
 NOTES:
l This applies only to virtual NICs created on a team or VLAN. Virtual NICs created on a
physical adapter do not require these steps.
l Receive Load Balancing (RLB) is not supported in Hyper-V. Disable RLB when using
Hyper-V.

1. Use Intel PROSet to create the team or VLAN.

2. Open the Network Control Panel.
3. Open the team or VLAN.
4. On the General Tab, uncheck all of the protocol bindings and click OK.
5. Create the virtual NIC. (If you check the "Allow management operating system to share the network
adapter." box you can do the following step in the parent partition.)
6. Open the Network Control Panel for the Virtual NIC.
7. On the General Tab, check the protocol bindings that you desire.

NOTE: This step is not required for the team. When the Virtual NIC is created, its protocols
are correctly bound.

Command Line for Microsoft Windows Server* Core

Microsoft Windows Server* Core does not have a GUI interface. If you want to use an ANS Team or VLAN as
a Virtual NIC, you must use Microsoft*Windows PowerShell* to set up the configuration. Use Windows
PowerShell to create the team or VLAN.

NOTE: Support for the Intel PROSet command line utilities (prosetcl.exe and crashdmp.exe) has
been removed, and is no longer installed. This functionality has been replaced by the Intel
Netcmdlets for Microsoft* Windows PowerShell*. Please transition all of your scripts and
processes to use the Intel Netcmdlets for Microsoft Windows PowerShell.

The following is an example of how to set up the configuration using Microsoft* Windows PowerShell*.
1. Get all the adapters on the system and store them into a variable.
$a = Get-IntelNetAdapter

2. Create a team by referencing the indexes of the stored adapter array.

New-IntelNetTeam -TeamMembers $a[1],$a[2] -TeamMode
VirtualMachineLoadBalancing -TeamName Team1

Virtual Machine Queue Offloading

Enabling VMQ offloading increases receive and transmit performance, as the adapter hardware is able to
perform these tasks faster than the operating system. Offloading also frees up CPU resources. Filtering is
based on MAC and/or VLAN filters. For devices that support it, VMQ offloading is enabled in the host partition
on the adapter's Device Manager property sheet, under Virtualization on the Advanced Tab.
Each Intel Ethernet Adapter has a pool of virtual ports that are split between the various features, such as
VMQ Offloading, SR-IOV, Data Center Bridging (DCB), and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE). Increasing
the number of virtual ports used for one feature decreases the number available for other features. On devices
that support it, enabling DCB reduces the total pool available for other features to 32. Enabling FCoE further
reduces the total pool to 24.

NOTE: This does not apply to devices based on the Intel Ethernet X710 controllers.

Intel PROSet displays the number of virtual ports available for virtual functions under Virtualization properties
on the device's Advanced Tab. It also allows you to set how the available virtual ports are distributed between
VMQ and SR-IOV.

Teaming Considerations

l If VMQ is not enabled for all adapters in a team, VMQ will be disabled for the team.
l If an adapter that does not support VMQ is added to a team, VMQ will be disabled for the team.
l Virtual NICs cannot be created on a team with Receive Load Balancing enabled. Receive Load Balan-
cing is automatically disabled if you create a virtual NIC on a team.
l If a team is bound to a Hyper-V virtual NIC, you cannot change the Primary or Secondary adapter.

Virtual Machine Multiple Queues

Virtual Machine Multiple Queues (VMMQ)enables Receive Side Scaling (RSS) for virtual ports attached to a
physical port. This allows RSS to be used with SR-IOV and inside a VMQ virtual machine, and offloads the
RSS processing to the network adapter. RSS balances receive traffic across multiple CPUs or CPU cores.
This setting has no effect if your system has only one processing unit.

SR-IOV Overview
Single Root IO Virtualization (SR-IOV) is a PCI SIG specification allowing PCI Express devices to appear as
multiple separate physical PCI Express devices. SR-IOV allows efficient sharing of PCI devices among
Virtual Machines (VMs). It manages and transports data without the use of a hypervisor by providing
independent memory space, interrupts, and DMA streams for each virtual machine.
SR-IOV architecture includes two functions:
l Physical Function (PF) is a full featured PCI Express function that can be discovered, managed and
configured like any other PCI Express device.
l Virtual Function (VF) is similar to PF but cannot be configured and only has the ability to transfer data in
and out. The VF is assigned to a Virtual Machine.

NOTES:
l SR-IOV must be enabled in the BIOS.
l In Windows Server 2012, SR-IOV is not supported with teaming and VLANS. This occurs
because the Hyper-V virtual switch does not enable SR-IOV on virtual interfaces such as
teaming or VLANs. To enable SR-IOV, remove all teams and VLANs.

SR-IOV Benefits
SR-IOV has the ability to increase the number of virtual machines supported per physical host, improving I/O
device sharing among virtual machines for higher overall performance:
l Provides near native performance due to direct connectivity to each VM through a virtual function
l Preserves VM migration
l Increases VM scalability on a virtualized server
l Provides data protection
iWARP (Internet Wide Area RDMA Protocol)
Remote Direct Memory Access, or RDMA, allows a computer to access another computer's memory without
interacting with either computer's operating system data buffers, thus increasing networking speed and
throughput. Internet Wide Area RDMA Protocol (iWARP) is a protocol for implementing RDMA across
Internet Protocol networks.
Microsoft* Windows* provides two forms of RDMA: Network Direct (ND) and Network Direct Kernel (NDK).
ND allows user-mode applications to use iWARP features. NDK allows kernel mode Windows components
(such as File Manager) to use iWARP features. NDK functionality is included in the Intel base networking
drivers. ND functionality is a separate option available during Intel driver and networking software installation.
If you plan to make use of iWARP features in applications you are developing, you will need to install the user-
mode Network Direct (ND) feature when you install the drivers. (See Installation below.)

NOTE: Even though NDK functionality is included in the base drivers, if you want to allow NDK's
RDMA feature across subnets, you will need to select "Enable iWARP routing across IP Subnets"
on the iWARP Configuration Options screen during base driver installation (see Installation below).

Requirements
The Intel Ethernet User Mode iWARP Provider is supported on Linux* operating systems and Microsoft*
Windows Server* 2012 R2 or later. For Windows installations, Microsoft HPC Pack or Intel MPI Library must
be installed.

Installation
NOTE: For installation on Windows Server 2016 Nano Server, see Installing on Nano Server below.

Network Direct Kernel (NDK) features are included in the Intel base drivers. Follow the steps below to install
user-mode Network Direct (ND) iWARP features.
1. From the installation media, run Autorun.exe to launch the installer, then choose "Install Drivers and
Software" and accept the license agreement.
2. On the Setup Options screen, select "Intel Ethernet User Mode iWARP Provider".
3. On the iWARP Configuration Options screen, select "Enable iWARP routing across IP Subnets" if
desired. Note that this option is displayed during base driver installation even if user mode iWARP was
not selected, as this option is applicable to Network Direct Kernel functionality as well.
4. If Windows Firewall is installed and active, select "Create an Intel Ethernet iWARP Port Mapping Ser-
vice rule in Windows Firewall" and the networks to which to apply the rule. If Windows Firewall is dis-
abled or you are using a third party firewall, you will need to manually add this rule.
5. Continue with driver and software installation.

Installing on Nano Server

Follow the steps below to install the Intel Ethernet User Mode iWARP Provider on Microsoft Windows
Server 2016 Nano Server.
 1. Create a directory from which to install the iWARP files. For example, C:\Nano\iwarp.
2. Copy the following files into your new directory:
l \Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\Winx64\DRIVERS\i40wb.dll
l \Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\Winx64\DRIVERS\i40wbmsg.dll
l \Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\Winx64\DRIVERS\indv2.cat
l \Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\Winx64\DRIVERS\indv2.inf
l \Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\Winx64\DRIVERS\indv2.sys
3. Run the DISM command to inject the iWARP files into your Nano Server image, using the directory
you created in step 1 for the AddDriver path parameter. For example, "DISM .../Add-Driver C:\Nan-
o\iwarp"
4. Create an inbound firewall rule for UDP port 3935.
5. If desired, use the Windows PowerShell commands below to enable iWARP routing across IP Sub-
nets.
l Set-NetOffloadGlobalSetting -NetworkDirectAcrossIPSubnets Allow
l Disable Adapter
l Enable Adapter

Customer Support
l Main Intel web support site: http://support.intel.com
l Network products information: http://www.intel.com/network

Legal / Disclaimers
Copyright (C) 2016, Intel Corporation. All rights reserved.
Intel Corporation assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this document. Nor does Intel make any
commitment to update the information contained herein.
Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
*Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.
This software is furnished under license and may only be used or copied in accordance with the terms of the
license. The information in this manual is furnished for informational use only, is subject to change without
notice, and should not be construed as a commitment by Intel Corporation. Intel Corporation assumes no
responsibility or liability
for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this document or any software that may be provided in
association with this document. Except as permitted by such license, no part of this document may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the express
written consent of Intel Corporation.
Installing the Adapter
Select the Correct Slot
One open PCI-Express slot, x4, x8, or x16, depending on your adapter.

NOTE: Some systems have physical x8 PCI Express slots that actually only support lower speeds.
Please check your system manual to identify the slot.

Insert the Adapter into the Computer

1. If your computer supports PCI Hot Plug, see your computer documentation for special installation
instructions.
2. Turn off and unplug your computer. Then remove the cover.

CAUTION: Turn off and unplug the power before removing the computer's cover. Failure to
do so could endanger you and may damage the adapter or computer.

3. Remove the cover bracket from an available slot.

4. Insert the adapter, pushing it into the slot until the adapter is firmly seated. You can install a smaller
PCI Express adapter in a larger PCI Express slot.

CAUTION: Some PCI Express adapters may have a short connector, making them
more fragile than PCI adapters. Excessive force could break the connector. Use cau-
tion when pressing the board in the slot.

5. Secure the adapter bracket with a screw, if required.

6. Replace the computer cover and plug in the power cord.
7. Power on the computer.

Connecting Network Cables

Connect the appropriate network cable, as described in the following sections.
Connect the RJ-45 Network Cable
Connect the RJ-45 network cable as shown:

Type of cabling to use:

l 10GBASE-T on Category 6, Category 6a, or Category 7 wiring, twisted 4-pair copper:
l Length is 55 meters max for Category 6.
l Length is 100 meters max for Category 6a.
l Length is 100 meters max for Category 7.

NOTE: For the Intel 10 Gigabit AT Server Adapter, to ensure compliance with CISPR 24
and the EUs EN55024, this product should be used only with Category 6a shielded cables
that are properly terminated according to the recommendations in EN50174-2.

l For 1000BASE-T or 100BASE-TX, use Category 5 or Category 5e wiring, twisted 4-pair copper:
l Make sure you use Category 5 cabling that complies with the TIA-568 wiring specification. For
more information on this specification, see the Telecommunications Industry Association's web
site: www.tiaonline.org.
l Length is 100 meters max.
l Category 3 wiring supports only 10 Mbps.

CAUTION: If using less than 4-pair cabling, you must manually configure the speed
and duplex setting of the adapter and the link partner. In addition, with 2- and 3-pair
cabling the adapter can only achieve speeds of up to 100Mbps.

l For 100BASE-TX, use Category 5 wiring.

l For 10Base-T, use Category 3 or 5 wiring.
l If you want to use this adapter in a residential environment (at any speed), use Category 5 wiring. If the
cable runs between rooms or through walls and/or ceilings, it should be plenum-rated for fire safety.
In all cases:
 l The adapter must be connected to a compatible link partner, preferably set to auto-negotiate speed and
duplex for Intel gigabit adapters.
l Intel Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Server Adapters using copper connections automatically accommodate
either MDI or MDI-X connections. The auto-MDI-X feature of Intel gigabit copper adapters allows you
to directly connect two adapters without using a cross-over cable.

Connect the Fiber Optic Network Cable

CAUTION: The fiber optic ports contain a Class 1 laser device. When the ports are dis-
connected, always cover them with the provided plug. If an abnormal fault occurs, skin or eye
damage may result if in close proximity to the exposed ports.

Remove and save the fiber optic connector cover. Insert a fiber optic cable into the ports on the network
adapter bracket as shown below.
Most connectors and ports are keyed for proper orientation. If the cable you are using is not keyed, check to
be sure the connector is oriented properly (transmit port connected to receive port on the link partner, and vice
versa).
The adapter must be connected to a compatible link partner operating at the same laser wavelength as the
adapter.
Conversion cables to other connector types (such as SC-to-LC) may be used if the cabling matches the
optical specifications of the adapter, including length limitations.
Insert the fiber optic cable as shown below.

Connection requirements

l 40GBASE-SR4/MPO on 850 nanometer optical fiber:

l Utilizing 50/125 micron OM3, length is 100 meters max.
l Utilizing 50/125 micron OM4, length is 150 meters max.
l 10GBASE-SR/LC on 850 nanometer optical fiber:
l Utilizing 50 micron multimode, length is 300 meters max.
l Utilizing 62.5 micron multimode, length is 33 meters max.
 l 1000BASE-SX/LC on 850 nanometer optical fiber:
l Utilizing 50 micron multimode, length is 550 meters max.
l Utilizing 62.5 micron multimode, length is 275 meters max.

SFP+ and QSFP+ Devices

X710 and XL710-Based Adapters

NOTES:
l Some Intel branded network adapters based on the X710/XL710 controller only support Intel
branded modules. On these adapters, other modules are not supported and will not function.
l For connections based on the X710/XL710 controller, support is dependent on your system
board. Please see your vendor for details.
l In all cases Intel recommends using Intel optics; other modules may function but are not val-
idated by Intel. Contact Intel for supported media types.
l In systems that do not have adequate airflow to cool the adapter and optical modules, you
must use high temperature optical modules.

Supplier Type Part Numbers

SR Modules

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR E10GSFPSR

(bailed)

LR Modules

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR E10GSFPLR

(bailed)

1G SFP Modules

The following 3rd party 1G SFP modules have received some testing. Not all modules are applicable to
all devices.

Finisar 1000BASE-T SFP FCLF-8251-3

Kinnex A 1000BASE-T SFP XSFP-T-RJ12-0101-DLL

Avago 1000BASE-T SFP ABCU-5710RZ

QSFP+ Modules

Intel TRIPLE RATE 1G/10G/40G E40GQSFPSR

QSFP+ SR (bailed) (1G not sup-
ported on XL710)

Intel TRIPLE RATE 1G/10G/40G E40GQSFPLR

 QSFP+ LR (bailed) (1G not sup-
ported on XL710)

SFP+ and QSFP+ Direct Attach

cables

X710/XL710 based SFP+/QSFP+ adapters support passive SFP+/QSFP+ Direct Attach cables. Intel
recommends using Intel Ethernet SFP+/QSFP+ Twinaxial Cables . Other cables may function but are
not validated by Intel. Contact Intel for supported media types.
XL710 based QSFP+ adapters support all passive and active limiting direct attach cables that comply
with SFF-8436 v3.1 specifications.

Intel Intel Ethernet SFP+Twinaxial XDACBL1M, XDACBL3M,

Cable XDACBL5M

Intel Intel Ethernet X4DACBL1, X4DACBL3,

QSFP+Breakout Cable (1M, X4DACBL5
3M, 5M)

Intel Intel Ethernet XLDACBL1, XLDACBL3,

QSFP+Twinaxial Cable (1M, XLDACBL5
3M, 5M)

XXV710-Based Adapters

Supplier Type Part Numbers

Intel Intel Ethernet SFP28 SR Optic E25GSFP28SR

Intel Intel Ethernet SFP28 Twinaxial Cable (1M, 2M, XXVDACBL1M, XXVDACBL2M,
3M) XXVDACBL3M

Intel Intel Ethernet QSFP28 to SFP28 Twinaxial Break- XXV4DACBL1M, XXV4DACBL2M,

out Cable (1M, 2M, 3M) XXV4DACBL3M

For XXV710 based SFP+ adapters Intel recommends using Intel optics and cables. Other modules may
function but are not validated by Intel. Contact Intel for supported media types.

82599-Based Adapters

NOTES:
l If your 82599-based Intel Network Adapter came with Intel optics, or is an Intel Ethernet
Server Adapter X520-2, then it only supports Intel optics and/or the direct attach cables listed
below.
l 82599-Based adapters support all passive and active limiting direct attach cables that com-
ply with SFF-8431 v4.1 and SFF-8472 v10.4 specifications.
 Supplier Type Part Numbers

SR Modules

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR (bailed) AFBR-703SDZ-

IN2

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR (bailed) FTLX8571D3BCV-

IT

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR (bailed) AFBR-703SDDZ-

IN1

LR Modules

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR (bailed) FTLX1471D3BCV-

IT

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR (bailed) AFCT-701SDZ-

IN2

Intel DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR (bailed) AFCT-701SDDZ-

IN1

QSFP Mod-
ules

Intel TRIPLE RATE 1G/10G/40G QSFP+ SR (bailed) (40G not sup- E40GQSFPSR
ported on 82599)

The following is a list of 3rd party SFP+ modules that have received some testing. Not all modules are
applicable to all devices.

Supplier Type Part Numbers

Finisar SFP+ SR bailed, 10G single rate FTLX8571D3BCL

Avago SFP+ SR bailed, 10G single rate AFBR-700SDZ

Finisar SFP+ LR bailed, 10G single rate FTLX1471D3BCL

Finisar DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR (No Bail) FTLX8571D3QCV-IT

Avago DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ SR (No Bail) AFBR-703SDZ-IN1

Finisar DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR (No Bail) FTLX1471D3QCV-IT

 Avago DUAL RATE 1G/10G SFP+ LR (No Bail) AFCT-701SDZ-IN1

Finisar 1000BASE-T SFP FCLF8522P2BTL

Avago 1000BASE-T SFP ABCU-5710RZ

HP 1000BASE-SX SFP 453153-001

82598-Based Adapters

NOTES:
l Intel Network Adapters that support removable optical modules only support their original
module type (i.e., the Intel 10 Gigabit SR Dual Port Express Module only supports SR
optical modules). If you plug in a different type of module, the driver will not load.
l 82598-Based adapters support all passive direct attach cables that comply with SFF-8431
v4.1 and SFF-8472 v10.4 specifications. Active direct attach cables are not supported.
l Hot Swapping/hot plugging optical modules is not supported.
l Only single speed, 10 Gigabit modules are supported.
l LAN on Motherboard (LOMs) may support DA, SR, or LR modules. Other module types are
not supported. Please see your system documentation for details.

The following is a list of SFP+ modules and direct attach cables that have received some testing. Not all
modules are applicable to all devices.

Supplier Type Part Numbers

Finisar SFP+ SR bailed, 10G single rate FTLX8571D3BCL

Avago SFP+ SR bailed, 10G single rate AFBR-700SDZ

Finisar SFP+ LR bailed, 10G single rate FTLX1471D3BCL

Molex 1m - Twin-ax cable 74752-1101

Molex 3m - Twin-ax cable 74752-2301

Molex 5m - Twin-ax cable 74752-3501

Molex 10m - Twin-ax cable 74752-9004

 Tyco 1m - Twin-ax cable 2032237-2

Tyco 3m - Twin-ax cable 2032237-4

Tyco 5m - Twin-ax cable 2032237-6

Tyco 10m - Twin-ax cable 1-2032237-1

THIRD PARTY OPTIC MODULES AND CABLES REFERRED TO ABOVE ARE LISTED ONLY FOR THE PURPOSE OF HIGHLIGHTING THIRD
PARTY SPECIFICATIONS AND POTENTIAL COMPATIBILITY, AND ARE NOT RECOMMENDATIONS OR ENDORSEMENT OR SPONSORSHIP OF
ANY THIRD PARTY'S PRODUCT BY INTEL. INTEL IS NOT ENDORSING OR PROMOTING PRODUCTS MADE BY ANY THIRD PARTY AND THE
THIRD PARTY REFERENCE IS PROVIDED ONLY TO SHARE INFORMATION REGARDING CERTAIN OPTIC MODULES AND CABLES WITH THE
ABOVE SPECIFICATIONS. THERE MAY BE OTHER MANUFACTURERS OR SUPPLIERS, PRODUCING OR SUPPLYING OPTIC MODULES AND
CABLES WITH SIMILAR OR MATCHING DESCRIPTIONS. CUSTOMERS MUST USE THEIR OWN DISCRETION AND DILIGENCE TO PURCHASE
OPTIC MODULES AND CABLES FROM ANY THIRD PARTY OF THEIR CHOICE. CUSTOMERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSESSING
THE SUITABILITY OF THE PRODUCT AND/OR DEVICES AND FOR THE SELECTION OF THE VENDOR FOR PURCHASING ANY PRODUCT. THE
OPTIC MODULES AND CABLES REFERRED TO ABOVE ARE NOT WARRANTED OR SUPPORTED BY INTEL. INTEL ASSUMES NO LIABILITY
WHATSOEVER, AND INTEL DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY, RELATING TO SALE AND/OR USE OF SUCH THIRD PARTY
PRODUCTS OR SELECTION OF VENDOR BY CUSTOMERS.

Connect the Direct Attach Cable

Insert the Direct Attach network cable as shown below.

Type of cabling:
l 40 Gigabit Ethernet over SFP+ Direct Attached Cable (Twinaxial)
l Length is 7 meters max.
l 10 Gigabit Ethernet over SFP+ Direct Attached Cable (Twinaxial)
l Length is 10 meters max.

PCI Hot Plug Support

Most Intel Ethernet Server Adapters are enabled for use in selected servers equipped with Hot Plug support.
Exceptions: Intel Gigabit Quad Port Server adapters do not support Hot Plug operations.
If you replace an adapter in a Hot Plug slot, do not place the removed adapter back into the same network until
the server has rebooted (unless you return it to the same slot and same team as before). This prevents a
conflict in having two of the same Ethernet addresses on the same network.
The system will require a reboot if you
l Change the primary adapter designator.
l Add a new adapter to an existing team and make the new adapter the primary adapter.
l Remove the primary adapter from the system and replace it with a different type of adapter.

NOTE: To replace an existing SLA-teamed adapter in a Hot Plug slot, first unplug the adapter
cable. When the adapter is replaced, reconnect the cable.

PCI Hot Plug Support for Microsoft* Windows* Operating Systems

Intel network adapters are enabled for use in selected servers equipped with PCI Hot Plug support and
runningMicrosoft* Windows* operating systems. For more information on setting up and using PCI Hot Plug
support in your server, see your hardware and/or Hot Plug support documentation for details. PCI Hot Plug
only works when you hot plug an identical Intel network adapter.

NOTES:
l The MAC address and driver from the removed adapter will be used by the replacement
adapter unless you remove the adapter from the team and add it back in. If you do not
remove and restore the replacement adapter from the team, and the original adapter is used
elsewhere on your network, a MAC address conflict will occur.
l For SLA teams, ensure that the replacement NIC is a member of the team before connecting
it to the switch.
Microsoft* Windows* Installation and Configuration
Installing Windows Drivers and Software
NOTE: To successfully install or uninstall the drivers or software, you must have administrative
privileges on the computer completing installation.

Install the Drivers

NOTE: This will update the drivers for all supported Intel network adapters in your system.

Before installing or updating the drivers, insert your adapter(s) in the computer and plug in the network cable.
When Windows discovers the new adapter, it attempts to find an acceptable Windows driver already installed
with the operating system.
If found, the driver is installed without any user intervention. If Windows cannot find the driver, the Found New
Hardware Wizard window is displayed.
Regardless of whether Windows finds the driver, it is recommended that you follow the procedure below to
install the driver. Drivers for all Intel adapters supported by this software release are installed.
1. Download the latest drivers from the support website and transfer them to the system.
2. If the Found New Hardware Wizard screen is displayed, click Cancel.
3. Start the autorun located in the downloaded the software package. The autorun may automatically start
after you have extracted the files.
4. Click Install Drivers and Software.
5. Follow the instructions in the install wizard.

NOTES:
l Intel PROSet is installed by default when you install the device drivers.
l If you want to install the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) subagent, select
IntelSNMPSubagent from the list of installation options under Device Drivers. For more
information, see Simple Network Management Protocol in this guide.

Installing the Base Driver and Intel PROSet on Nano Server

Driver Installation

NOTE: Installing drivers requires administrator rights to the operating system.

To install drivers on Microsoft* Windows Server* Nano Server:

1. Identify which drivers to inject into the operating system.
2. Create a directory from which to install the drivers. For example, C:\Nano\Drivers
3. Copy the appropriate drivers for the operating system and hardware. For example, "copy
D:\PROXGB\Winx64\NDIS65\*.* c:\Nano\Drivers /y"
 4. If you are using the New-NanoServerImage module, use the above path for the -DriversPath para-
meter. For example, "New-NanoServerImage ...-DriversPath C:\Nano\Drivers"
5. If you are using DISM.exe as well, use the above path for the /AddDriver parameter. For example,
"DISM .../Add-Driver C:\Nano\Drivers"

Intel PROSet Installation

To install Intel PROSet on Microsoft* Windows Server* Nano Server:

1. Use the New-NanoServerImage cmdlet to add the PROSetNS.zip file from the
.\Disk\APPS\PROSETDX\NanoServer directory to your -CopyPath parameter.
2. Append the NanoSetup.ps1 file (located in the same directory) to your -SetupCompleteCommands
parameter.
For example:
New-NanoServerImage ...
-CopyPath "<PATH>\PROSetNS.zip", "<PATH>\NanoSetup.ps1" `
-SetupCompleteCommands "PowerShell ""C:\NanoSetup.ps1"""

See the link below for more information on deploying a Nano Server image and using the cmdlet:
https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/mt126167.aspx

Installing Intel PROSet

Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager is an advanced configuration utility that incorporates additional
configuration and diagnostic features into the device manager.

NOTES:
l You must install Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager if you want to use Intel ANS
teams or VLANs.
l Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager is installed by default when you install the
device drivers. For information on usage, see Using Intel PROSet for Windows Device
Manager.

Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager is installed with the same process used to install drivers.

NOTES:
l You must have administrator rights to install or use Intel PROSet for Windows Device
Manager.
l Upgrading PROSet for Windows Device Manager may take a few minutes.

1. On the autorun, click Install Base Drivers and Software.

NOTE: You can also run setup64.exe from the files downloaded from Customer Support.

2. Proceed with the installation wizard until the Custom Setup page appears.
3. Select the features to install.
4. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.
If Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager was installed without ANS support, you can install support by
clicking Install Base Drivers and Software on the autorun, or running setup64.exe, and then selecting the
Modify option when prompted. From the Intel Network Connections window, select Advanced Network
Services then click Next to continue with the installation wizard.

Command Line Installation for Base Drivers and Intel PROSet

Driver Installation

The driver install utility install_cmd.exe allows unattended installation of drivers from a command line.

NOTES:
l Intel 10GbE Network Adapters do not support unattended driver install-
ation.
l Intel PROSet cannot be installed with msiexec.exe. You must use
DxSetup.exe.

These utilities can be used to install the base driver, intermediate driver, and all management applications for
supported devices.
install_cmd.exe Command Line Options
By setting the parameters in the command line, you can enable and disable management applications. If
parameters are not specified, only existing components are updated.
install_cmd.exe supports the following command line parameters:

Parameter Definition

BD Base Driver
"0", do not install the base driver.
"1", install the base driver (default).

ANS Advanced Network Services

"0", do not install ANS (default). If ANS is already installed, it will be uninstalled.
"1", install ANS. The ANS property requires DMIX=1.

NOTE: If the ANS parameter is set to ANS=1, both Intel PROSet and ANS will
be installed.

DMIX PROSet for Windows Device Manager

"0", do not install Intel PROSet feature (default). If the Intel PROSet feature is already
installed, it will be uninstalled.
"1", install Intel PROSet feature. The DMIX property requires BD=1.

NOTE: If DMIX=0, ANS will not be installed. If DMIX=0 and Intel PROSet, ANS,
and FCoE are already installed, Intel PROSet, ANS, and FCoE will be
uninstalled.
Parameter Definition

SNMP Intel SNMP Agent

"0", do not install SNMP (default). If SNMP is already installed, it will be uninstalled.
"1", install SNMP. The SNMP property requires BD=1.

NOTE: Although the default value for the SNMP parameter is 1 (install), the
SNMP agent will only be installed if:
l The Intel SNMP Agent is already installed. In this case, the SNMP agent
will be updated.
l The Windows SNMP service is installed. In this case, the SNMP window
will pop up and you may cancel the installation if you do not want it
installed.

FCOE Fibre Channel over Ethernet

"0", do not install FCoE (default). If FCoE is already installed, it will be uninstalled.
"1", install FCoE. The FCoE property requires DMIX=1.

NOTE: Even if FCOE=1 is passed, FCoE will not be installed if the operating
system and installed adapters do not support FCoE.

ISCSI iSCSI
"0", do not install iSCSI (default). If iSCSI is already installed, it will be uninstalled.
"1", install FCoE. The iSCSI property requires DMIX=1.

LOG [log file name]

LOG allows you to enter a file name for the installer log file. The default name is
C:\UmbInst.log.

XML [XML file name]

XML allows you to enter a file name for the XML output file.

-a Extract the components required for installing the base driver to C:\Program Files\In-
tel\Drivers. The directory where these files will be extracted to can be modified unless
silent mode (/qn) is specified. If this parameter is specified, the installer will exit after the
base driver is extracted. Any other parameters will be ignored.

-f Force a downgrade of the components being installed.

NOTE: If the installed version is newer than the current version, this parameter
needs to be set.

-v Display the current install package version.

Parameter Definition

/q[r|n] /q --- silent install options

r Reduced GUI Install (only displays critical warning messages)

n Silent install

/l[i|w|e|a] /l --- log file option for DMIX and SNMP installation. Following are log switches:

i log status messages.

w log non-fatal warnings.

e log error messages.

a log the start of all actions.

-u Uninstall the drivers.

NOTES:
l You must include a space between parameters.
l If you specify a path for the log file, the path must exist. If you do not specify a complete
path, the install log will be created in the current directory.
l You do not need to specify default values. To install the base drivers, Intel PROSet, and
ANS, the following examples are equivalent:
install_cmd.exe
install_cmd.exe BD=1 DMIX=1 ANS=1
l The ANS property should only be set to ANS=1 if DMIX=1 is set. If DMIX=0 and ANS=1, the
ANS=1 is ignored and only the base driver will be installed.
l Even if FCOE=1 is passed, FCoE using DCB will not be installed if the operating system
and installed adapters do not support it. If FORCE=1 is also passed, FCoE will be installed if
the operating system supports it.
l Even if ISCSI=1 is passed, iSCSI using DCB will not be installed if the operating system
and installed adapters do not support it. If FORCE=1 is also passed, iSCSI will be installed if
the operating system supports it.
l Public properties are not case sensitive. No white space is allowed between characters. For
example:
install_cmd.exe /qn DMIX=1

Any white space in "DMIX=1" makes the setting invalid.

 Command line install examples
Assume that install_cmd.exeis in the root directory of the CD, D:\.
1. How to install the base driver:
D:\install_cmd.exe DMIX=0 ANS=0 SNMP=0

2. How to install the base driver using the LOG option:

D:\install_cmd.exe LOG=C:\installBD.log DMIX=0 ANS=0 SNMP=0

3. How to install Intel PROSet and ANS silently:

D:\install_cmd.exe DMIX=1 ANS=1 /qn

4. How to install Intel PROSet without ANS silently:

D:\install_cmd.exe DMIX=1 ANS=0 /qn

5. How to install components but deselect ANS:

D:\install_cmd.exe DMIX=1 ANS=0 /qn /liew C:\install.log
The /liew log option provides a log file for the Intel PROSet installation.

NOTE: To install teaming and VLAN support on a system that has adapter base drivers and Intel
PROSet for Windows Device Manager installed, type the command line D:\install_cmd.exe
ANS=1.

Modify and Upgrade

You can use install_cmd.exeto modify or upgrade your drivers and software. If a feature is already installed,
the public property for that feature will default to 1 and if a feature is not installed, the public property for that
feature will default to 0. Running install_cmd.exewithout specifying properties will upgrade all installed
software. You can remove installed software (except for base drivers) by setting the property to 0. If you
uninstall PROSet (DMIX=0), all features that rely on PROSet will also be removed.
Windows Server Core
Command Line Options

SetupBD.exe supports the following command line switches.

NOTE: You must include a space between switches.

Switch Description

/s silent install

/r force reboot (must be used with the /s switch)

/nr no reboot (must be used with the /s switch. This switch is ignored if it is included with the /r
switch)

Examples:
 Option Description

SetupBD Installs and/or updates the driver(s) and displays the GUI.

SetupBD /s Installs and/or updates the driver(s) silently.

SetupBD /s /r Installs and/or updates the driver(s) silently and forces a reboot.

SetupBD /s /r /nr Installs and/or updates the driver(s) silently and forces a reboot (/nr is ignored).

Other information

You can use the /r and /nr switches only with a silent install (i.e. with the "/s" option).

Simple Network Management Protocol

The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a network protocol used to manage TCP/IP networks.
SNMP-compliant devices (agents) communicate with management applications (consoles) to send alerts and
updates and allow configuration changes.
The Intel SNMP Agent translates event notices from the adapter and sends them to specified SNMP
management stations. The SNMP agent provides information on Intel network adapters as well as
information about advanced features, such as teaming and VLANs.

Using the Intel SNMP Agent

l Before you install the Intel SNMP Agent on a computer, you must install SNMP on the computer. See
your operating system documentation for more information.
l To use the Intel SNMP Agent with an SNMP management application, you must first compile the Intel
MIB (Management Information Base) into the management application's database. This allows the
management application to recognize and support the adapter.

Installing the SNMP Agent on Microsoft* Windows* Operating Systems

This utility should only be employed by experienced network administrators. Additional software/services
must be installed on your network prior to installing the Intel SNMP Agent.
To install the SNMP Agent, start the autorun menu from the download directory and click Install Drivers and
Software. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Using Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager

Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager is an extension to the Windows Device Manager. When you
install the Intel PROSet software, additional tabs are automatically added to Device Manager.
 NOTES:
l You must have administrator rights to install or use Intel PROSet for Windows Device Man-
ager.
l Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager and the IntelNetCmdlets module for
WindowsPowerShell* require the latest driver and software package for your Intel Ethernet
devices. Please download the most recent driver and software package for your operating
system from www.intel.com.
l On recent operating systems, older hardware may not support Intel PROSet for Windows
Device Manager and the IntelNetCmdlets module for WindowsPowerShell. In this case, the
Intel PROSet tabs may not be displayed in the Windows Device Manager user interface, and
the IntelNetCmdlets may display an error message stating that the device does not have an
Intel driver installed.

Changing Intel PROSet Settings Under Windows Server Core

You can use the Intel NetCmdlets for Microsoft*Windows PowerShell* to change most Intel PROSet settings
under Windows Server Core. Please refer to the aboutIntelNetCmdlets.hlp.txt help file.
For iSCSICrash Dump configuration, use the Intel NetCmdlets for Microsoft*Windows PowerShell* and refer
to the aboutIntelNetCmdlets.help.txt help file.

NOTE: Support for the Intel PROSet command line utilities (prosetcl.exe and crashdmp.exe) has
been removed, and is no longer installed. This functionality has been replaced by the Intel
Netcmdlets for Microsoft* Windows PowerShell*. Please transition all of your scripts and
processes to use the Intel Netcmdlets for Microsoft Windows PowerShell.

Compatibility Notes
The following devices do not support Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager
l Intel 82552 10/100 Network Connection
l Intel 82567V-3 Gigabit Network Connection
l Intel X552 10G Ethernet devices
l Intel X553 10G Ethernet devices
l Any platform with a System on a Chip (SoC) processor that includes either a server controller (des-
ignated by an initial X, such as X552) or both a server and client controller (designated by an initial I,
such as I218)
l Devices based on the Intel Ethernet Controller X722

Link Speed tab

The Link Speed tab allows you to change the adapter's speed and duplex setting, run diagnostics, and use
the identify adapter feature.

Setting Speed and Duplex

Overview
The Link Speed and Duplex setting lets you choose how the adapter sends and receives data packets over
the network.
In the default mode, an Intel network adapter using copper connections will attempt to auto-negotiate with its
link partner to determine the best setting. If the adapter cannot establish link with the link partner using auto-
negotiation, you may need to manually configure the adapter and link partner to the identical setting to
establish link and pass packets. This should only be needed when attempting to link with an older switch that
does not support auto-negotiation or one that has been forced to a specific speed or duplex mode.
Auto-negotiation is disabled by selecting a discrete speed and duplex mode in the adapter properties sheet.

NOTES:
l When an adapter is running in NPar mode, Speed settings are limited to the root partition of
each port.
l Fiber-based adapters operate only in full duplex at their native speed.

The settings available when auto-negotiation is disabled are:

l 40 Gbps full duplex (requires a full duplex link partner set to full duplex). The adapter can send and
receive packets at the same time.
l 10 Gbps full duplex (requires a full duplex link partner set to full duplex). The adapter can send and
receive packets at the same time.
l 1 Gbps full duplex (requires a full duplex link partner set to full duplex). The adapter can send and
receive packets at the same time. You must set this mode manually (see below).
l 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps full duplex (requires a link partner set to full duplex). The adapter can send
and receive packets at the same time. You must set this mode manually (see below).
l 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps half duplex (requires a link partner set to half duplex). The adapter performs
one operation at a time; it either sends or receives. You must set this mode manually (see below).
Your link partner must match the setting you choose.

NOTES:
l Although some adapter property sheets (driver property settings) list 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps
in full or half duplex as options, using those settings is not recommended.
l Only experienced network administrators should force speed and duplex manually.
l You cannot change the speed or duplex of Intel adapters that use fiber cabling.

Intel 10 Gigabit adapters that support 1 gigabit speed allow you to configure the speed setting. If this option is
not present, your adapter only runs at its native speed.
If the adapter cannot establish link with the gigabit link partner using auto-negotiation, set the adapter to 1
Gbps Full duplex.
Intel 10 gigabit fiber-based adapters and SFP direct-attach devices operate only in full duplex, and only at their
native speed. Multi-speed 10 gigabit SFP+ fiber modules support full duplex at 10 Gbps and 1 Gbps.
Auto-negotiation and Auto-Try are not supported on devices based on the IntelEthernet Connection X552
controller and IntelEthernet Connection X553 controller.
Manually Configuring Duplex and Speed Settings
Configuration is specific to your operating system driver. To set a specific Link Speed and Duplex mode, refer
to the section below that corresponds to your operating system.
 CAUTION: The settings at the switch must always match the adapter settings. Adapter per-
formance may suffer, or your adapter might not operate correctly if you configure the adapter
differently from your switch.

The default setting is for auto-negotiation to be enabled. Only change this setting to match your link partner's
speed and duplex setting if you are having trouble connecting.
1. In Windows Device Manager, double-click the adapter you want to configure.
2. On the Link Speed tab, select a speed and duplex option from the Speed and Duplex drop-down
menu.
3. Click OK.
More specific instructions are available in the Intel PROSet help.

Advanced Tab
The settings listed on Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager's Advanced tab allow you to customize
how the adapter handles QoS packet tagging, Jumbo Packets, Offloading, and other capabilities. Some of the
following features might not be available depending on the operating system you are running, the specific
adapters installed, and the specific platform you are using.

Adaptive Inter-Frame Spacing

Compensates for excessive Ethernet packet collisions on the network.

The default setting works best for most computers and networks. By enabling this feature, the network
adapter dynamically adapts to the network traffic conditions. However, in some rare cases you might obtain
better performance by disabling this feature. This setting forces a static gap between packets.

Default Disabled

Range l Enabled
l Disabled

Direct Memory Access (DMA) Coalescing

DMA (Direct Memory Access) allows the network device to move packet data directly to the system's
memory, reducing CPU utilization. However, the frequency and random intervals at which packets arrive do
not allow the system to enter a lower power state. DMA Coalescing allows the NIC to collect packets before it
initiates a DMA event. This may increase network latency but also increases the chances that the system will
consume less energy. Adapters and network devices based on the Intel Ethernet Controller I350 (and later
controllers) support DMA Coalescing.
Higher DMA Coalescing values result in more energy saved but may increase your system's network latency.
If you enable DMA Coalescing, you should also set the Interrupt Moderation Rate to 'Minimal'. This minimizes
the latency impact imposed by DMA Coalescing and results in better peak network throughput performance.
You must enable DMA Coalescing on all active ports in the system. You may not gain any energy savings if it
is enabled only on some of the ports in your system. There are also several BIOS, platform, and application
settings that will affect your potential energy savings. A white paper containing information on how to best
configure your platform is available on the Intel website.
Flow Control

Enables adapters to more effectively regulate traffic. Adapters generate flow control frames when their
receive queues reach a pre-defined limit. Generating flow control frames signals the transmitter to slow
transmission. Adapters respond to flow control frames by pausing packet transmission for the time specified
in the flow control frame.
By enabling adapters to adjust packet transmission, flow control helps prevent dropped packets.

NOTES:
l For adapters to benefit from this feature, link partners must support flow control frames.
l When an adapter is running in NPar mode, Flow Control is limited to the root partition of
each port.

Default RX & TX Enabled

Range l Disabled
l RX Enabled
l TX Enabled
l RX & TX Enabled

Gigabit Master Slave Mode

Determines whether the adapter or link partner is designated as the master. The other device is designated as
the slave. By default, the IEEE 802.3ab specification defines how conflicts are handled. Multi-port devices
such as switches have higher priority over single port devices and are assigned as the master. If both devices
are multi-port devices, the one with higher seed bits becomes the master. This default setting is called
"Hardware Default."

NOTE: In most scenarios, it is recommended to keep the default value of this feature.

Setting this to either "Force Master Mode" or "Force Slave Mode" overrides the hardware default.

Default Auto Detect

Range l Force Master Mode

l Force Slave Mode
l Auto Detect

NOTE: Some multi-port devices may be forced to Master Mode. If the adapter is connected to such
a device and is configured to "Force Master Mode," link is not established.

Interrupt Moderation Rate

Sets the Interrupt Throttle Rate (ITR). This setting moderates the rate at which Transmit and Receive
interrupts are generated.
When an event such as packet receiving occurs, the adapter generates an interrupt. The interrupt interrupts
the CPU and any application running at the time, and calls on the driver to handle the packet. At greater link
speeds, more interrupts are created, and CPU rates also increase. This results in poor system performance.
When you use a higher ITR setting, the interrupt rate is lower and the result is better CPU performance.

NOTE: A higher ITR rate also means that the driver has more latency in handling packets. If the
adapter is handling many small packets, it is better to lower the ITR so that the driver can be more
responsive to incoming and outgoing packets.

Altering this setting may improve traffic throughput for certain network and system configurations, however
the default setting is optimal for common network and system configurations. Do not change this setting
without verifying that the desired change will have a positive effect on network performance.

Default Adaptive

Range l Adaptive
l Extreme
l High
l Medium
l Low
l Minimal
l Off

IPv4 Checksum Offload

This allows the adapter to compute the IPv4 checksum of incoming and outgoing packets. This feature
enhances IPv4 receive and transmit performance and reduces CPU utilization.
With Offloading off, the operating system verifies the IPv4 checksum.
With Offloading on, the adapter completes the verification for the operating system.

Default RX & TX Enabled

Range l Disabled
l RX Enabled
l TX Enabled
l RX & TX Enabled

Jumbo Frames

Enables or disables Jumbo Packet capability. The standard Ethernet frame size about 1514 bytes, while
Jumbo Packets are larger than this. Jumbo Packets can increase throughput and decrease CPU utilization.
However, additional latency may be introduced.
Enable Jumbo Packets only if ALL devices across the network support them and are configured to use the
same frame size. When setting up Jumbo Packets on other network devices, be aware that network devices
calculate Jumbo Packet sizes differently. Some devices include the frame size in the header information
while others do not. Intel adapters do not include frame size in the header information.
Jumbo Packets can be implemented simultaneously with VLANs and teaming. If a team contains one or more
non-Intel adapters, the Jumbo Packets feature for the team is not supported. Before adding a non-Intel adapter
to a team, make sure that you disable Jumbo Packets for all non-Intel adapters using the software shipped
with the adapter.
Restrictions
l Jumbo frames are not supported in multi-vendor team configurations.
l Supported protocols are limited to IP (TCP, UDP).
l Jumbo frames require compatible switch connections that forward Jumbo Frames. Contact your
switch vendor for more information.
l When standard-sized Ethernet frames (64 to 1518 bytes) are used, there is no benefit to configuring
Jumbo Frames.
l The Jumbo Packets setting on the switch must be set to at least 8 bytes larger than the adapter setting
for Microsoft Windows operating systems, and at least 22 bytes larger for all other operating systems.

Default Disabled

Range Disabled (1514), 4088, or 9014 bytes. (Set the switch 4 bytes higher for CRC, plus 4 bytes if
using VLANs.)

NOTES:
l Jumbo Packets are supported at 10 Gbps and 1 Gbps only. Using Jumbo Packets at 10 or
100 Mbps may result in poor performance or loss of link.
l End-to-end hardware must support this capability; otherwise, packets will be dropped.
l Intel adapters that support Jumbo Packets have a frame size limit of 9238 bytes, with a
corresponding MTU size limit of 9216 bytes.

Large Send Offload (IPv4 and IPv6)

Sets the adapter to offload the task of segmenting TCP messages into valid Ethernet frames. The maximum
frame size limit for large send offload is set to 64,000 bytes.
Since the adapter hardware is able to complete data segmentation much faster than operating system
software, this feature may improve transmission performance. In addition, the adapter uses fewer CPU
resources.

Default Enabled

Range l Enabled
l Disabled

Locally Administered Address

Overrides the initial MAC address with a user-assigned MAC address. To enter a new network address, type
a 12-digit hexadecimal number in this box.

Default None
 Range 0000 0000 0001 - FFFF FFFF FFFD
Exceptions:
l Do not use a multicast address (Least Significant Bit of the high byte = 1). For
example, in the address 0Y123456789A, "Y" cannot be an odd number. (Y must be 0,
2, 4, 6, 8, A, C, or E.)
l Do not use all zeros or all Fs.
If you do not enter an address, the address is the original network address of the adapter.
For example,

Multicast: 0123 4567 8999 Broadcast: FFFF FFFF FFFF

Unicast (legal): 0070 4567 8999

NOTE: In a team, Intel PROSet uses either:

l The primary adapter's permanent MAC address if the team does not have an LAA con-
figured, or
l The team's LAA if the team has an LAA configured.
Intel PROSet does not use an adapter's LAA if the adapter is the primary adapter in a team and the
team has an LAA.

Log Link State Event

This setting is used to enable/disable the logging of link state changes. If enabled, a link up change event or a
link down change event generates a message that is displayed in the system event logger. This message
contains the link's speed and duplex. Administrators view the event message from the system event log.
The following events are logged.
l The link is up.
l The link is down.
l Mismatch in duplex.
l Spanning Tree Protocol detected.

Default Enabled

Range Enabled, Disabled

Low Latency Interrupts

LLI enables the network device to bypass the configured interrupt moderation scheme based on the type of
data being received. It configures which arriving TCP packets trigger an immediate interrupt, enabling the
system to handle the packet more quickly. Reduced data latency enables some applications to gain faster
access to network data.

NOTE: When LLI is enabled, system CPU utilization may increase.

LLI can be used for data packets containing a TCP PSH flag in the header or for specified TCP ports.
l Packets with TCP PSH Flag - Any incoming packet with the TCP PSH flag will trigger an immediate
interrupt. The PSH flag is set by the sending device.
l TCP Ports - Every packet received on the specified ports will trigger an immediate interrupt. Up to
eight ports may be specified.

Default Disabled

Range l Disabled
l PSH Flag-Based
l Port-Based

Network Virtualization using Generic Routing Encapsulation (NVGRE)

Network Virtualization using Generic Routing Encapsulation (NVGRE) increases the efficient routing of
network traffic within a virtualized or cloud environment. Some Intel Ethernet Network devices perform
Network Virtualization using Generic Routing Encapsulation (NVGRE) processing, offloading it from the
operating system. This reduces CPU utilization.

Performance Options

Performance Profile

Performance Profiles are supported on Intel 10GbE adapters and allow you to quickly optimize the
performance of your Intel Ethernet Adapter. Selecting a performance profile will automatically adjust some
Advanced Settings to their optimum setting for the selected application. For example, a standard server has
optimal performance with only two RSS (Receive-Side Scaling) queues, but a web server requires more RSS
queues for better scalability.
You must install Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager to use Performance profiles. Profiles are
selected on the Advanced tab of the adapter's property sheet.

Profiles l Standard Server This profile is optimized for typical servers.

l Web Server This profile is optimized for IIS and HTTP-based web servers.
l Virtualization Server This profile is optimized for Microsofts Hyper-V virtualization
environment.
l Storage Server This profile is optimized for Fibre Channel over Ethernet or for
iSCSI over DCB performance. Selecting this profile will disable SR-IOV and VMQ.
l Storage + Virtualization This profile is optimized for a combination of storage and
virtualization requirements.
l Low Latency This profile is optimized to minimize network latency.

NOTES:
l Not all options are available on all adapter/operating system combinations.
l If you have selected the Virtualization Server profile or the Storage + Virtualization profile,
and you uninstall the Hyper-V role, you should select a new profile.
Teaming Considerations

When you create a team with all members of the team supporting Performance Profiles, you will be asked
which profile to use at the time of team creation. The profile will be synchronized across the team. If there is
not a profile that is supported by all team members then the only option will be Use Current Settings. The team
will be created normally. Adding an adapter to an existing team works in much the same way.
If you attempt to team an adapter that supports performance profiles with an adapter that doesn't, the profile
on the supporting adapter will be set to Custom Settings and the team will be created normally.

Priority & VLAN Tagging

Enables the adapter to offload the insertion and removal of priority and VLAN tags for transmit and receive.

Default Priority & VLAN Enabled

Range l Priority & VLAN Disabled

l Priority Enabled
l VLAN Enabled
l Priority & VLAN Enabled

Quality of Service

Quality of Service (QoS) allows the adapter to send and receive IEEE 802.3ac tagged frames. 802.3ac tagged
frames include 802.1p priority-tagged frames and 802.1Q VLAN-tagged frames. In order to implement QoS,
the adapter must be connected to a switch that supports and is configured for QoS. Priority-tagged frames
allow programs that deal with real-time events to make the most efficient use of network bandwidth. High
priority packets are processed before lower priority packets.
Tagging is enabled and disabled in Microsoft* Windows* Server* using the "QoS Packet Tagging" field in the
Advanced tab in Intel PROSet. For other versions of the Windows operating system, tagging is enabled
using the "Priority/VLAN Tagging" setting on the Advanced tab in Intel PROSet.
Once QoS is enabled in Intel PROSet, you can specify levels of priority based on IEEE 802.1p/802.1Q frame
tagging.
The supported operating systems, including Microsoft* Windows Server*, have a utility for 802.1p packet
prioritization. For more information, see the Windows system help and Microsoft's knowledge base.

NOTE: The first generation Intel PRO/1000 Gigabit Server Adapter (PWLA 8490) does not
support QoS frame tagging.

Receive Buffers

Defines the number of Receive Buffers, which are data segments. They are allocated in the host memory and
used to store the received packets. Each received packet requires at least one Receive Buffer, and each
buffer uses 2KB of memory.
You might choose to increase the number of Receive Buffers if you notice a significant decrease in the
performance of received traffic. If receive performance is not an issue, use the default setting appropriate to
the adapter.
 Default 512, for the 10 Gigabit Server Adapters.
256, for all other adapters depending on the features selected.

Range 128-4096, in intervals of 64, for the 10 Gigabit Server Adapters.

80-2048, in intervals of 8, for all other adapters.

Recommended Value Teamed adapter: 256

Using IPSec and/or multiple features: 352

Receive Side Scaling

When Receive Side Scaling (RSS) is enabled, all of the receive data processing for a particular TCP
connection is shared across multiple processors or processor cores. Without RSS all of the processing is
performed by a single processor, resulting in less efficient system cache utilization. RSS can be enabled for a
LAN or for FCoE. In the first case, it is called "LAN RSS". In the second, it is called "FCoE RSS".
LAN RSS
LAN RSS applies to a particular TCP connection.

NOTE: This setting has no effect if your system has only one processing unit.

LAN RSS Configuration

RSS is enabled on the Advanced tab of the adapter property sheet. If your adapter does not support RSS, or
if the SNP or SP2 is not installed, the RSS setting will not be displayed. If RSS is supported in your system
environment, the following will be displayed:
l Port NUMA Node. This is the NUMA node number of a device.
l Starting RSS CPU. This setting allows you to set the p referred starting RSS processor. Change this
setting if the current processor is dedicated to other processes. The setting range is from 0 to the num-
ber of logical CPUs - 1. In Server 2008 R2, RSS will only use CPUs in group 0 (CPUs 0 through 63).
l Max number of RSS CPU. This setting allows you to set the maximum number of CPUs assigned to
an adapter and is primarily used in a Hyper-V environment. By decreasing this setting in a Hyper-V
environment, the total number of interrupts is reduced which lowers CPU utilization. The default is 8 for
Gigabit adapters and 16 for 10 Gigabit adapters.
l Preferred NUMA Node. This setting allows you to choose the preferred NUMA (Non-Uniform
Memory Access) node to be used for memory allocations made by the network adapter. In addition the
system will attempt to use the CPUs from the preferred NUMA node first for the purposes of RSS. On
NUMA platforms, memory access latency is dependent on the memory location. Allocation of memory
from the closest node helps improve performance. The Windows Task Manager shows the NUMA
Node ID for each processor.

NOTES:
l This setting only affects NUMA systems. It will have no effect on non-NUMA sys-
tems.
l Choosing a value greater than the number of NUMA nodes present in the system
selects the NUMA node closest to the device.
 l Receive Side Scaling Queues. This setting configures the number of RSS queues, which determine
the space to buffer transactions between the network adapter and CPU(s).

Default 2 queues for the Intel 10 Gigabit Server Adapters

Range l 1 queue is used when low CPU utilization is required.

l 2 queues are used when good throughput and low CPU utilization are required.
l 4 queues are used for applications that demand maximum throughput and
transactions per second.
l 8 and 16 queues are supported on the Intel 82598-based and 82599-based
adapters.

NOTES:
l The 8 and 16 queues are only available when PROSet for
Windows Device Manager is installed. If PROSet is not
installed, only 4 queues are available.
l Using 8 or more queues will require the system to reboot.

NOTE: Not all settings are available on all adapters.

LAN RSS and Teaming

l If RSS is not enabled for all adapters in a team, RSS will be disabled for the team.
l If an adapter that does not support RSS is added to a team, RSS will be disabled for the team.
lIf you create a multi-vendor team, you must manually verify that the RSS settings for all adapters in the
team are the same.
FCoE RSS
If FCoE is installed, FCoE RSS is enabled and applies to FCoE receive processing that is shared across
processor cores.
FCoE RSS Configuration

If your adapter supports FCoE RSS, the following configuration settings can be viewed and changed on the
base driver Advanced Performance tab:
l FCoE NUMA Node Count. This setting specifies the number of consecutive NUMA Nodes where
the allocated FCoE queues will be evenly distributed.
l FCoE Starting NUMA Node. This setting specifies the NUMA node representing the first node within
the FCoE NUMA Node Count.
l FCoE Starting Core Offset. This setting specifies the offset to the first NUMA Node CPU core that
will be assigned to FCoE queue.
l FCoE Port NUMA Node. This setting is an indication from the platform of the optimal closest NUMA
Node to the physical port, if available. This setting is read-only and cannot be configured.
Performance Tuning

The Intel Network Controller provides a new set of advanced FCoE performance tuning options. These
options will direct how FCoE transmit/receive queues are allocated in NUMA platforms. Specifically, they
direct what target set of NUMA node CPUs can be selected from to assign individual queue affinity. Selecting
a specific CPU has two main effects:
l It sets the desired interrupt location for processing queue packet indications.
l It sets the relative locality of the queue to available memory.
As indicated, these are intended as advanced tuning options for those platform managers attempting to
maximize system performance. They are generally expected to be used to maximize performance for multi-
port platform configurations. Since all ports share the same default installation directives (the .inf file, etc.),
the FCoE queues for every port will be associated with the same set of NUMA CPUs which may result in
CPU contention.
The software exporting these tuning options defines a NUMA Node to be equivalent to an individual processor
(socket). Platform ACPI information presented by the BIOS to the operating system helps define the relation
of PCI devices to individual processors. However, this detail is not currently reliably provided in all platforms.
Therefore, using the tuning options may produce unexpected results. Consistent or predictable results when
using the performance options cannot be guaranteed.
The performance tuning options are listed in the LAN RSS Configuration section.
Example 1: A platform with two physical sockets, each socket processor providing 8 core CPUs (16 when
hyper threading is enabled), and a dual port Intel adapter with FCoE enabled.
By default 8 FCoE queues will be allocated per NIC port. Also, by default the first (non-hyper thread) CPU
cores of the first processor will be assigned affinity to these queues resulting in the allocation model pictured
below. In this scenario, both ports would be competing for CPU cycles from the same set of CPUs on socket
0.

Socket Queue to CPU Allocation

Using performance tuning options, the association of the FCoE queues for the second port can be directed to
a different non-competing set of CPU cores. The following settings would direct SW to use CPUs on the other
processor socket:
l FCoE NUMA Node Count = 1: Assign queues to cores from a single NUMA node (or processor
socket).
l FCoE Starting NUMA Node = 1: Use CPU cores from the second NUMA node (or processor socket) in
the system.
l FCoE Starting Core Offset = 0: SW will start at the first CPU core of the NUMA node (or processor
socket).
The following settings would direct SW to use a different set of CPUs on the same processor socket. This
assumes a processor that supports 16 non-hyperthreading cores.
l FCoE NUMA Node Count = 1
l FCoE Starting NUMA Node = 0
l FCoE Starting Core Offset = 8
Example 2: Using one or more ports with queues allocated across multiple NUMA nodes. In this case, for
each NIC port the FCoE NUMA Node Count is set to that number of NUMA nodes. By default the queues will
be allocated evenly from each NUMA node:
 l FCoE NUMA Node Count = 2
l FCoE Starting NUMA Node = 0
l FCoE Starting Core Offset = 0
Example 3: The display shows FCoE Port NUMA Node setting is 2 for a given adapter port. This is a read-
only indication from SW that the optimal nearest NUMA node to the PCI device is the third logical NUMA
node in the system. By default SW has allocated that port's queues to NUMA node 0. The following settings
would direct SW to use CPUs on the optimal processor socket:
l FCoE NUMA Node Count = 1
l FCoE Starting NUMA Node = 2
l FCoE Starting Core Offset = 0
This example highlights the fact that platform architectures can vary in the number of PCI buses and where
they are attached. The figures below show two simplified platform architectures. The first is the older common
FSB style architecture in which multiple CPUs share access to a single MCH and/or ESB that provides PCI
bus and memory connectivity. The second is a more recent architecture in which multiple CPU processors
are interconnected via QPI, and each processor itself supports integrated MCH and PCI connectivity directly.
There is a perceived advantage in keeping the allocation of port objects, such as queues, as close as possible
to the NUMA node or collection of CPUs where it would most likely be accessed. If the port queues are using
CPUs and memory from one socket when the PCI device is actually hanging off of another socket, the result
may be undesirable QPI processor-to-processor bus bandwidth being consumed. It is important to understand
the platform architecture when using these performance options.

Shared Single Root PCI/Memory Architecture

Distributed Multi-Root PCI/Memory Architecture

Example 4: The number of available NUMA node CPUs is not sufficient for queue allocation. If your platform
has a processor that does not support an even power of 2 CPUs (for example, it supports 6 cores), then during
queue allocation if SW runs out of CPUs on one socket it will by default reduce the number of queues to a
power of 2 until allocation is achieved. For example, if there is a 6 core processor being used, the SW will only
allocate 4 FCoE queues if there only a single NUMA node. If there are multiple NUMA nodes, the NUMA node
count can be changed to a value greater than or equal to 2 in order to have all 8 queues created.
Determining Active Queue Location

The user of these performance options will want to determine the affinity of FCoE queues to CPUs in order to
verify their actual effect on queue allocation. This is easily done by using a small packet workload and an I/O
application such as IoMeter. IoMeter monitors the CPU utilization of each CPU using the built-in performance
monitor provided by the operating system. The CPUs supporting the queue activity should stand out. They
should be the first non-hyper thread CPUs available on the processor unless the allocation is specifically
directed to be shifted via the performance options discussed above.
To make the locality of the FCoE queues even more obvious, the application affinity can be assigned to an
isolated set of CPUs on the same or another processor socket. For example, the IoMeter application can be
set to run only on a finite number of hyper thread CPUs on any processor. If the performance options have
been set to direct queue allocation on a specific NUMA node, the application affinity can be set to a different
NUMA node. The FCoE queues should not move and the activity should remain on those CPUs even though
the application CPU activity moves to the other processor CPUs selected.

SR-IOV (Single Root I/O Virtualization)

SR-IOV lets a single network port appear to be several virtual functions in a virtualized environment. If you
have an SR-IOV capable NIC, each port on that NIC can assign a virtual function to several guest partitions.
The virtual functions bypass the Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), allowing packet data to move directly to a
guest partition's memory, resulting in higher throughput and lower CPU utilization. SR-IOV also allows you to
move packet data directly to a guest partition's memory. SR-IOV support was added in Microsoft Windows
Server 2012. See your operating system documentation for system requirements.
For devices that support it, SR-IOV is enabled in the host partition on the adapter's Device Manager property
sheet, under Virtualization on the Advanced Tab. Some devices may need to have SR-IOV enabled in a
preboot environment.

NOTES:
l Configuring SR-IOV for improved network security: In a virtualized envir-
onment, on Intel Server Adapters that support SR-IOV, the virtual function
(VF) may be subject to malicious behavior. Software-generated frames are not
expected and can throttle traffic between the host and the virtual switch, redu-
cing performance. To resolve this issue, configure all SR-IOV enabled ports
for VLAN tagging. This configuration allows unexpected, and potentially mali-
cious, frames to be dropped.
l You must enable VMQ for SR-IOV to function.
l SR-IOV is not supported with ANS teams.
l VMWare ESXi does not support SR-IOV on 1GbE ports.

TCP Checksum Offload (IPv4 and IPv6)

Allows the adapter to verify the TCP checksum of incoming packets and compute the TCP checksum of
outgoing packets. This feature enhances receive and transmit performance and reduces CPU utilization.
With Offloading off, the operating system verifies the TCP checksum.
With Offloading on, the adapter completes the verification for the operating system.

Default RX & TX Enabled

Range l Disabled
l RX Enabled
l TX Enabled
l RX & TX Enabled

TCP/IP Offloading Options

Thermal Monitoring

Adapters and network controllers based on the Intel Ethernet Controller I350 (and later controllers) can
display temperature data and automatically reduce the link speed if the controller temperature gets too hot.

NOTE: This feature is enabled and configured by the equipment manufacturer. It is not available on
all adapters and network controllers. There are no user configurable settings.

Monitoring and Reporting

Temperature information is displayed on the Link tab in Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manger. There
are three possible conditions:
l Temperature: Normal
Indicates normal operation.
l Temperature: Overheated, Link Reduced
Indicates that the device has reduced link speed to lower power consumption and heat.
l Temperature: Overheated, Adapter Stopped
Indicates that the device is too hot and has stopped passing traffic so it is not damaged.
If either of the overheated events occur, the device driver writes a message to the system event log.

Transmit Buffers

Defines the number of Transmit Buffers, which are data segments that enable the adapter to track transmit
packets in the system memory. Depending on the size of the packet, each transmit packet requires one or
more Transmit Buffers.
You might choose to increase the number of Transmit Buffers if you notice a possible problem with transmit
performance. Although increasing the number of Transmit Buffers can enhance transmit performance,
Transmit Buffers do consume system memory. If transmit performance is not an issue, use the default
setting. This default setting varies with the type of adapter.
View the Adapter Specifications topic for help identifying your adapter.

Default 512, depending on the requirements of the adapter

Range 128-16384, in intervals of 64, for 10 Gigabit Server Adapters.

80-2048, in intervals of 8, for all other adapters.
UDP Checksum Offload (IPv4 and IPv6)

Allows the adapter to verify the UDP checksum of incoming packets and compute the UDP checksum of
outgoing packets. This feature enhances receive and transmit performance and reduces CPU utilization.
With Offloading off, the operating system verifies the UDP checksum.
With Offloading on, the adapter completes the verification for the operating system.

Default RX & TX Enabled

Range l Disabled
l RX Enabled
l TX Enabled
l RX & TX Enabled

Wait for Link

Determines whether the driver waits for auto-negotiation to be successful before reporting the link state. If this
feature is off, the driver does not wait for auto-negotiation. If the feature is on, the driver does wait for auto-
negotiation.
If this feature is on and the speed is not set to auto-negotiation, the driver will wait for a short time for link to be
established before reporting the link state.
If the feature is set to Auto Detect, this feature is automatically set to On or Off depending on speed and
adapter type when the driver is installed. The setting is:
l Off for copper Intel gigabit adapters with a speed of "Auto".
l On for copper Intel gigabit adapters with a forced speed and duplex.
l On for fiber Intel gigabit adapters with a speed of "Auto".

Default Auto Detect

Range l On
l Off
l Auto Detect

VLANsTab
The VLANs tab allows you to create, modify, and delete VLANs. You must install Advanced Network
Services in order to see this tab and use the feature.
Virtual LANs

Overview

NOTES:
l You must install the latest Microsoft* Windows* 10 updates before you can create Intel ANS
Teams or VLANs on Windows 10 systems. Any Intel ANS Teams or VLANs created with a
previous software/driver release on a Windows 10 system will be corrupted and cannot be
upgraded. The installer will remove these existing teams and VLANs. Intel ANS is only sup-
ported on the Windows 10 Anniversary Update (Windows 10 Version 1607, build 10.0.14393)
branch, and may not be supported on future versions.
l MicrosoftWindows Server2012 R2 is the last Windows Server operating system version
that supports IntelAdvanced Networking Services (Intel ANS). Intel ANS is not supported
on Microsoft Windows Server 2016 and later.
l Intel ANS VLANs are not compatible with Microsoft's Load Balancing and Failover (LBFO)
teams. Intel PROSet will block a member of an LBFO team from being added to an Intel
ANS VLAN. You should not add a port that is already part of an Intel ANS VLAN to an LBFO
team, as this may cause system instability.

The term VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) refers to a collection of devices that communicate as if they
were on the same physical LAN. Any set of ports (including all ports on the switch) can be considered a
VLAN. LAN segments are not restricted by the hardware that physically connects them.

VLANs offer the ability to group computers together

into logical workgroups. This can simplify network
administration when connecting clients to servers
that are geographically dispersed across the
building, campus, or enterprise network.
Typically, VLANs consist of co-workers within the
same department but in different locations, groups
of users running the same network protocol, or a
cross-functional team working on a joint project.

By using VLANs on your network, you can:

l Improve network performance
l Limit broadcast storms
l Improve LAN configuration updates (adds, moves, and changes)
l Minimize security problems
l Ease your management task
Other Considerations
l Configuring SR-IOV for improved network security: In a virtualized environment, on Intel Server
Adapters that support SR-IOV, the virtual function (VF) may be subject to malicious behavior. Soft-
ware-generated frames are not expected and can throttle traffic between the host and the virtual
switch, reducing performance. To resolve this issue, configure all SR-IOV enabled ports for VLAN tag-
ging. This configuration allows unexpected, and potentially malicious, frames to be dropped.
l To set up IEEE VLAN membership (multiple VLANs), the adapter must be attached to a switch with
IEEE 802.1Q VLAN capability.
 l A maximum of 64 VLANs per network port or team are supported by Intel software.
l VLANs can co-exist with teaming (if the adapter supports both). If you do this, the team must be
defined first, then you can set up your VLAN.
l The Intel PRO/100 VE and VM Desktop Adapters and Network Connections can be used in a switch
based VLAN but do not support IEEE Tagging.
l You can set up only one untagged VLAN per adapter or team. You must have at least one tagged
VLAN before you can set up an untagged VLAN.

CAUTION: When using IEEE 802 VLANs, settings must match between the switch and those
adapters using the VLANs.

Configuring VLANs in Microsoft* Windows*

In Microsoft* Windows*, you must use Intel PROSet to set up and configure VLANs. For more information,
select Intel PROSet in the Table of Contents (left pane) of this window.

CAUTION:
l VLANs cannot be used on teams that contain non-Intel network adapters
l Use Intel PROSet to add or remove a VLAN. Do not use the Network and Dial-up
Connections dialog box to enable or disable VLANs. Otherwise, the VLAN driver may
not be correctly enabled or disabled.

NOTES:
l The VLAN ID keyword is supported. The VLAN ID must match the VLAN ID configured on
the switch. Adapters with VLANs must be connected to network devices that support IEEE
802.1Q.
l If you change a setting under the Advanced tab for one VLAN, it changes the settings for all
VLANS using that port.
l In most environments, a maximum of 64 VLANs per network port or team are supported by
Intel PROSet.
l ANS VLANs are not supported on adapters and teams that have VMQ enabled. However,
VLAN filtering with VMQ is supported via the Microsoft Hyper-V VLAN interface. For more
information see Using Intel Network Adapters in a Microsoft* Hyper-V* Environment.
l You can have different VLAN tags on a child partition and its parent. Those settings are sep-
arate from one another, and can be different or the same. The only instance where the VLAN
tag on the parent and child MUST be the same is if you want the parent and child partitions to
be able to communicate with each other through that VLAN. For more information see Using
Intel Network Adapters in a Microsoft* Hyper-V* Environment.

Teaming Tab
The Teaming tab allows you to create, modify, and delete adapter teams. You must install Advanced
Network Services in order to see this tab and use the feature.
Adapter Teaming

Intel Advanced Network Services (Intel ANS) Teaming lets you take advantage of multiple adapters in a
system by grouping them together. ANS teaming can use features like fault tolerance and load balancing to
increase throughput and reliability.
Before creating a team or adding team members, make sure each team member has been configured
similarly. Settings to check include VLANs and QoS Packet Tagging, Jumbo Packets, and the various
offloads. Pay particular attention when using different adapter models or adapter versions, as adapter
capabilities vary.
Configuration Notes
l You must install the latest Microsoft* Windows* 10 updates before you can create Intel ANS Teams or
VLANs on Windows 10 systems. Any Intel ANS Teams or VLANs created with a previous soft-
ware/driver release on a Windows 10 system will be corrupted and cannot be upgraded. The installer
will remove these existing teams and VLANs. Intel ANS is only supported on the Windows 10
Anniversary Update (Windows 10 Version 1607, build 10.0.14393) branch, and may not be supported
on future versions.
l Microsoft*Windows Server*2012 R2 is the last Windows Server operating system version that sup-
ports IntelAdvanced Networking Services (Intel ANS). Intel ANS is not support on Microsoft Windows
Server 2016 and later.
l To configure teams in Linux, use Channel Bonding, available in supported Linux kernels. For more
information see the channel bonding documentation within the kernel source.
l Not all team types are available on all operating systems.
l Be sure to use the latest available drivers on all adapters.
l Not all Intel devices support Intel ANS or Intel PROSet. Intel adapters that do not support Intel ANS or
Intel PROSet may still be included in a team. However, they are restricted in the same way non-Intel
adapters are. See Multi-Vendor Teaming for more information.
l You cannot create a team that includes both Intel X710/XL710-based devices and Intel I350-based
devices. These devices are incompatible together in a team and will be blocked during team setup. Pre-
viously created teams that include this combination of devices will be removed upon upgrading.
l NDIS 6.2 introduced new RSS data structures and interfaces. Because of this, you cannot enable
RSS on teams that contain a mix of adapters that support NDIS 6.2 RSS and adapters that do not.
l If a team is bound to a Hyper-V virtual NIC, you cannot change the Primary or Secondary adapter.
l To assure a common feature set, some advanced features, including hardware offloading, are auto-
matically disabled when an adapter that does not support Intel PROSet is added to a team.
l Hot Plug operations in a Multi-Vendor Team may cause system instability. We recommended that you
restart the system or reload the team after performing Hot Plug operations with a Multi-Vendor Team.
l Spanning tree protocol (STP) should be disabled on switch ports connected to teamed adapters in
order to prevent data loss when the primary adapter is returned to service (failback). Alternatively, an
activation delay may be configured on the adapters to prevent data loss when spanning tree is used.
Set the Activation Delay on the advanced tab of team properties.
lFibre Channel over Ethernet/Data Center Bridging will be automatically disabled when an adapter is
added to a team with non-FCoE/DCB capable adapters.
Configuring ANS Teams
Advanced Network Services (ANS) Teaming, a feature of the Advanced Network Services component, lets
you take advantage of multiple adapters in a system by grouping them together. ANS teaming can use
features like fault tolerance and load balancing to increase throughput and reliability.
 NOTES:
l NLB will not work when Receive Load Balancing (RLB) is enabled. This occurs because
NLB and iANS both attempt to set the server's multicast MAC address, resulting in an ARP
table mismatch.
l Teaming with the Intel 10 Gigabit AF DA Dual Port Server Adapter is only supported with
similar adapter types and models or with switches using a Direct Attach connection.

Creating a team

1. Launch Windows Device Manager

2. Expand Network Adapters.
3. Double-click on one of the adapters that will be a member of the team.
The adapter properties dialog box appears.
4. Click the Teaming tab.
5. Click Team with other adapters.
6. Click New Team.
7. Type a name for the team, then click Next.
8. Click the checkbox of any adapter you want to include in the team, then click Next.
9. Select a teaming mode, then click Next.

10. Click Finish.

The Team Properties window appears, showing team properties and settings.
Once a team has been created, it appears in the Network Adapters category in the Computer Management
window as a virtual adapter. The team name also precedes the adapter name of any adapter that is a member
of the team.

NOTE: If you want to set up VLANs on a team, you must first create the team.

Adding or Removing an Adapter from an Existing Team

NOTE: A team member should be removed from the team with link down.

1. Open the Team Properties dialog box by double-clicking on a team listing in the Computer Man-
agement window.
2. Click the Settings tab.
3. Click Modify Team, then click the Adapters tab.
4. Select the adapters that will be members of the team.
l Click the checkbox of any adapter that you want to add to the team.
l Clear the checkbox of any adapter that you want to remove from the team.
5. Click OK.
Renaming a Team

1. Open the Team Properties dialog box by double-clicking on a team listing in the Computer Man-
agement window.
2. Click the Settings tab.
3. Click Modify Team, then click the Name tab.
4. Type a new team name, then click OK.
Removing a Team

1. Open the Team Properties dialog box by double-clicking on a team listing in the Computer Man-
agement window.
2. Click the Settings tab.
3. Select the team you want to remove, then click Remove Team.
4. Click Yes when prompted.

NOTE: If you defined a VLAN or QoS Prioritization on an adapter joining a team, you may have to
redefine it when it is returned to a stand-alone mode.

Teaming and VLANConsiderations When Replacing Adapters

After installing an adapter in a specific slot, Windows treats any other adapter of the same type as a new
adapter. Also, if you remove the installed adapter and insert it into a different slot, Windows recognizes it as a
new adapter. Make sure that you follow the instructions below carefully.
1. Open Intel PROSet.
2. If the adapter is part of a team remove the adapter from the team.
3. Shut down the server and unplug the power cable.
4. Disconnect the network cable from the adapter.
5. Open the case and remove the adapter.
6. Insert the replacement adapter. (Use the same slot, otherwise Windows assumes that there is a new
adapter.)
7. Reconnect the network cable.
8. Close the case, reattach the power cable, and power-up the server.
9. Open Intel PROSet and check to see that the adapter is available.
Microsoft* Load Balancing and Failover (LBFO) teams
Intel ANS teaming and VLANs are not compatible with Microsoft's LBFO teams. Intel PROSet will block a
member of an LBFO team from being added to an Intel ANS team or VLAN. You should not add a port that is
already part of an Intel ANS team or VLAN to an LBFO team, as this may cause system instability. If you use
an ANS team member or VLAN in an LBFO team, perform the following procedure to restore your
configuration:
1. Reboot the machine
2. Remove LBFO team. Even though LBFO team creation failed, after a reboot Server Manager will report
that LBFO is Enabled, and the LBFO interface is present in the 'NIC Teaming' GUI.
3. Remove the ANS teams and VLANs involved in the LBFO team and recreate them. This is an optional
(all bindings are restored when the LBFO team is removed ), but strongly recommended step
 NOTES:
l If you add an Intel AMT enabled port to an LBFO team, do not set the port to Standby in the
LBFO team. If you set the port to Standby you may lose AMT functionality.
l Data Center Bridging (DCB) is incompatible with Microsoft Server 2012 NIC Teaming
(LBFO). Do not create an LBFO team using Intel 10G ports when DCB is installed. Do not
install DCB if Intel 10G ports are part of an LBFO team. Install failures and persistent link
loss may occur if DCB and LBFO are used on the same port.

Using Intel ANS Teams and VLANs inside a Guest Virtual Machine

Intel ANS Teams and VLANs are only supported in the following guest virtual machines

Host\Guest VM Microsoft Windows Microsoft Windows Microsoft Windows

Server 2008 R2 VM Server 2012 VM Server 2012 R2 VM

Microsoft Win- No Teams or VLANs LBFO LBFO

dows Hyper-V

Linux Hypervisor ANS Teams and VLANs LBFO LBFO

(Xen or KVM)
ANS VLANs ANS VLANs

VMware ESXi ANS Teams and VLANs LBFO LBFO

ANS VLANs ANS VLANs

Supported Adapters
Teaming options are supported on Intel server adapters. Selected adapters from other manufacturers are also
supported. If you are using a Windows-based computer, adapters that appear in Intel PROSet may be
included in a team.

NOTE: In order to use adapter teaming, you must have at least one Intel server adapter in your
system. Furthermore, all adapters must be linked to the same switch or hub.

Conditions that may prevent you from teaming a device

During team creation or modification, the list of available team types or list of available devices may not
include all team types or devices. This may be caused by any of several conditions, including:
l The device does not support the desired team type or does not support teaming at all.
l The operating system does not support the desired team type.
l The devices you want to team together use different driver versions.
l You are trying to team an Intel PRO/100 device with an Intel 10GbE device.
l TOE (TCP Offload Engine) enabled devices cannot be added to an ANS team and will not appear in the
list of available adapters.
l You can add Intel Active Management Technology (Intel AMT) enabled devices to Adapter Fault
Tolerance (AFT), Switch Fault Tolerance (SFT), and Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB) teams. All other
team types are not supported. The Intel AMT enabled device must be designated as the primary
adapter for the team.
l The device's MAC address is overridden by the Locally Administered Address advanced setting.
 l Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) Boot has been enabled on the device.
l The device has OS Controlled selected on the Data Center tab.
l The device has a virtual NIC bound to it.
l The device is part of a Microsoft* Load Balancing and Failover (LBFO) team.
Teaming Modes
Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT) - provides automatic redundancy for a server's network connection. If
the primary adapter fails, the secondary adapter takes over. Adapter Fault Tolerance supports two to
eight adapters per team. This teaming type works with any hub or switch. All team members must be
connected to the same subnet.
l Switch Fault Tolerance (SFT) - provides failover between two adapters connected to separate
switches. Switch Fault Tolerance supports two adapters per team. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) must
be enabled on the switch when you create an SFT team. When SFT teams are created, the Activation
Delay is automatically set to 60 seconds. This teaming type works with any switch or hub. All team
members must be connected to the same subnet.
l Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB) - provides load balancing of transmit traffic and adapter fault tolerance.
In Microsoft* Windows* operating systems, you can also enable or disable receive load balancing
(RLB) in ALB teams (by default, RLB is enabled).
l Virtual Machine Load Balancing (VMLB) - provides transmit and receive traffic load balancing across
Virtual Machines bound to the team interface, as well as fault tolerance in the event of switch port,
cable, or adapter failure. This teaming type works with anyswitch.
l Static Link Aggregation (SLA) - provides increased transmission and reception throughput in a team of
two to eight adapters. This team type replaces the following team types from prior software releases:
Fast EtherChannel*/Link Aggregation (FEC) and Gigabit EtherChannel*/Link Aggregation (GEC). This
type also includes adapter fault tolerance and load balancing (only routed protocols). This teaming type
requires a switch with Intel Link Aggregation, Cisco* FEC or GEC, or IEEE 802.3ad Static Link Aggreg-
ation capability.
All adapters in a Link Aggregation team running in static mode must run at the same speed and must be
connected to a Static Link Aggregation capable switch. If the speed capability of adapters in a Static
Link Aggregation team are different, the speed of the team is dependent on the lowest common
denominator.
l IEEE 802.3ad Dynamic Link Aggregation - creates one or more teams using Dynamic Link Aggregation
with mixed-speed adapters. Like the Static Link Aggregation teams, Dynamic 802.3ad teams increase
transmission and reception throughput and provide fault tolerance. This teaming type requires a switch
that fully supports the IEEE 802.3ad standard.
l Multi-Vendor Teaming (MVT) - adds the capability to include adapters from selected other vendors in a
team. If you are using a Windows-based computer, you can team adapters that appear in the Intel
PROSet teaming wizard.
 IMPORTANT:
l Be sure to use the latest available drivers on all adapters.
l Before creating a team, adding or removing team members, or changing advanced settings
of a team member, make sure each team member has been configured similarly. Settings
to check include VLANs and QoS Packet Tagging, Jumbo Frames, and the various off-
loads. These settings are available in Intel PROSet's Advanced tab. Pay particular atten-
tion when using different adapter models or adapter versions, as adapter capabilities vary.
l If team members implement Advanced features differently, failover and team functionality
will be affected. To avoid team implementation issues:
l Create teams that use similar adapter types and models.
l Reload the team after adding an adapter or changing any Advanced features. One
way to reload the team is to select a new preferred primary adapter. Although there
will be a temporary loss of network connectivity as the team reconfigures, the team
will maintain its network addressing schema.

NOTES:
l Hot Plug operations for an adapter that is part of a team are only available in Windows
Server.
l For SLA teams, all team members must be connected to the same switch. For AFT, ALB,
and RLB teams, all team members must belong to the same subnet. The members of an
SFT team must be connected to a different switch.
l Teaming only one adapter port is possible, but provides no benefit.

Primary and Secondary Adapters

Teaming modes that do not require a switch with the same capabilities (AFT, SFT, ALB (with RLB)) use a
primary adapter. In all of these modes except RLB, the primary is the only adapter that receives traffic. RLB is
enabled by default on an ALB team.
If the primary adapter fails, another adapter will take over its duties. If you are using more than two adapters,
and you want a specific adapter to take over if the primary fails, you must specify a secondary adapter. If an
Intel AMT enabled device is part of a team, it must be designated as the primary adapter for the team.
There are two types of primary and secondary adapters:
l Default primary adapter: If you do not specify a preferred primary adapter, the software will choose
an adapter of the highest capability (model and speed) to act as the default primary. If a failover occurs,
another adapter becomes the primary. Once the problem with the original primary is resolved, the traffic
will not automatically restore to the default (original) primary adapter in most modes. The adapter will,
however, rejoin the team as a non-primary.
l Preferred Primary/Secondary adapters: You can specify a preferred adapter in Intel PROSet. Under
normal conditions, the Primary adapter handles all traffic. The Secondary adapter will receive allback
traffic if the primary fails. If the Preferred Primary adapter fails, but is later restored to an active status,
control is automatically switched back to the Preferred Primary adapter. Specifying primary and sec-
ondary adapters adds no benefit to SLA and IEEE 802.3ad dynamic teams, but doing so forces the
team to use the primary adapter's MAC address.
To specify a preferred primary or secondary adapter in Windows

1. In the Team Properties dialog box's Settings tab, click Modify Team.
2. On the Adapters tab, select an adapter.
3. Click Set Primary or Set Secondary.
4. Click OK.
The adapter's preferred setting appears in the Priority column on Intel PROSet's Team Configuration tab. A
"1" indicates a preferred primary adapter, and a "2" indicates a preferred secondary adapter.
Failover and Failback

When a link fails, either because of port or cable failure, team types that provide fault tolerance will continue to
send and receive traffic. Failover is the initial transfer of traffic from the failed link to a good link. Failback
occurs when the original adapter regains link. You can use the Activation Delay setting (located on the
Advanced tab of the team's properties in Device Manager) to specify a how long the failover adapter waits
before becoming active. If you don't want your team to failback when the original adapter gets link back, you
can set the Allow Failback setting to disabled (located on the Advanced tab of the team's properties in Device
Manager).
Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT)
Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT) provides automatic recovery from a link failure caused from a failure in an
adapter, cable, switch, or port by redistributing the traffic load across a backup adapter.
Failures are detected automatically, and traffic rerouting takes place as soon as the failure is detected. The
goal of AFT is to ensure that load redistribution takes place fast enough to prevent user sessions from being
disconnected. AFT supports two to eight adapters per team. Only one active team member transmits and
receives traffic. If this primary connection (cable, adapter, or port) fails, a secondary, or backup, adapter takes
over. After a failover, if the connection to the user-specified primary adapter is restored, control passes
automatically back to that primary adapter. For more information, see Primary and Secondary Adapters.
AFT is the default mode when a team is created. This mode does not provide load balancing.

NOTES
l AFT teaming requires that the switch not be set up for teaming and that spanning tree pro-
tocol is turned off for the switch port connected to the NIC or LOM on the server.
l All members of an AFT team must be connected to the same subnet.

Switch Fault Tolerance (SFT)

Switch Fault Tolerance (SFT) supports only two NICs in a team connected to two different switches. In SFT,
one adapter is the primary adapter and one adapter is the secondary adapter. During normal operation, the
secondary adapter is in standby mode. In standby, the adapter is inactive and waiting for failover to occur. It
does not transmit or receive network traffic. If the primary adapter loses connectivity, the secondary adapter
automatically takes over. When SFT teams are created, the Activation Delay is automatically set to 60
seconds.
In SFT mode, the two adapters creating the team can operate at different speeds.

NOTE: SFT teaming requires that the switch not be set up for teaming and that spanning tree
protocol is turned on.
Configuration Monitoring

You can set up monitoring between an SFT team and up to five IP addresses. This allows you to detect link
failure beyond the switch. You can ensure connection availability for several clients that you consider critical.
If the connection between the primary adapter and all of the monitored IP addresses is lost, the team will
failover to the secondary adapter.
Adaptive/Receive Load Balancing (ALB/RLB)
Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB) is a method for dynamic distribution of data traffic load among multiple
physical channels. The purpose of ALB is to improve overall bandwidth and end station performance. In ALB,
multiple links are provided from the server to the switch, and the intermediate driver running on the server
performs the load balancing function. The ALB architecture utilizes knowledge of Layer 3 information to
achieve optimum distribution of the server transmission load.
ALB is implemented by assigning one of the physical channels as Primary and all other physical channels as
Secondary. Packets leaving the server can use any one of the physical channels, but incoming packets can
only use the Primary Channel. With Receive Load Balancing (RLB) enabled, it balances IP receive traffic. The
intermediate driver analyzes the send and transmit loading on each adapter and balances the rate across the
adapters based on destination address. Adapter teams configured for ALB and RLB also provide the benefits
of fault tolerance.

NOTES:
l ALB teaming requires that the switch not be set up for teaming and that spanning tree
protocol is turned off for the switch port connected to the network adapter in the server.
l ALB does not balance traffic when protocols such as NetBEUI and IPX* are used.
l You may create an ALB team with mixed speed adapters. The load is balanced according to
the adapter's capabilities and bandwidth of the channel.
l All members of ALB and RLB teams must be connected to the same subnet.
l Virtual NICs cannot be created on a team with Receive Load Balancing enabled. Receive
Load Balancing is automatically disabled if you create a virtual NIC on a team.

Virtual Machine Load Balancing

Virtual Machine Load Balancing (VMLB) provides transmit and receive traffic load balancing across Virtual
Machines bound to the team interface, as well as fault tolerance in the event of switch port, cable, or adapter
failure.
The driver analyzes the transmit and receive load on each member adapter and balances the traffic across
member adapters. In a VMLB team, each Virtual Machine is associated with one team member for its TX and
RX traffic.
If only one virtual NIC is bound to the team, or if Hyper-V is removed, then the VMLB team will act like an AFT
team.

NOTES:
l VMLB does not load balance non-routed protocols such as NetBEUI and some IPX* traffic.
l VMLB supports from two to eight adapter ports per team.
l You can create a VMLB team with mixed speed adapters. The load is balanced according to
the lowest common denominator of adapter capabilities and the bandwidth of the channel.
l You cannot use and Intel AMT enabled adapter a VMLB team.
 Static Link Aggregation
Static Link Aggregation (SLA) is very similar to ALB, taking several physical channels and combining them
into a single logical channel.
This mode works with:
l Cisco EtherChannel capable switches with channeling mode set to "on"
l Intel switches capable of Link Aggregation
l Other switches capable of static 802.3ad

NOTES:
l All adapters in a Static Link Aggregation team must run at the same speed and must be
connected to a Static Link Aggregation-capable switch. If the speed capabilities of adapters
in a Static Link Aggregation team are different, the speed of the team is dependent on the
switch.
l Static Link Aggregation teaming requires that the switch be set up for Static Link Aggregation
teaming and that spanning tree protocol is turned off.
l An Intel AMT enabled adapter cannot be used in an SLA team.

IEEE 802.3ad: Dynamic Link Aggregation

IEEE 802.3ad is the IEEE standard. Teams can contain two to eight adapters. You must use 802.3ad
switches (in dynamic mode, aggregation can go across switches). Adapter teams configured for IEEE
802.3ad also provide the benefits of fault tolerance and load balancing. Under 802.3ad, all protocols can be
load balanced.
Dynamic mode supports multiple aggregators. Aggregators are formed by port speed connected to a switch.
For example, a team can contain adapters running at 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps, but two aggregators will be formed,
one for each speed. Also, if a team contains 1 Gbps ports connected to one switch, and a combination of
1Gbps and 10Gbps ports connected to a second switch, three aggregators would be formed. One containing
all the ports connected to the first switch, one containing the 1 Gbps ports connected to the second switch,
and the third containing the 10Gbps ports connected to the second switch.

NOTES:
l IEEE 802.3ad teaming requires that the switch be set up for IEEE 802.3ad (link aggregation)
teaming and that spanning tree protocol is turned off.
l Once you choose an aggregator, it remains in force until all adapters in that aggregation team
lose link.
l In some switches, copper and fiber adapters cannot belong to the same aggregator in an
IEEE 802.3ad configuration. If there are copper and fiber adapters installed in a system, the
switch might configure the copper adapters in one aggregator and the fiber-based adapters in
another. If you experience this behavior, for best performance you should use either only
copper-based or only fiber-based adapters in a system.
l An Intel AMT enabled adapter cannot be used in a DLA team.

Before you begin

l Verify that the switch fully supports the IEEE 802.3ad standard.
l Check your switch documentation for port dependencies. Some switches require pairing to start on a
primary port.
 l Check your speed and duplex settings to ensure the adapter and switch are running at full duplex,
either forced or set to auto-negotiate. Both the adapter and the switch must have the same speed and
duplex configuration. The full-duplex requirement is part of the IEEE 802.3ad specification: http://stand-
ards.ieee.org/. If needed, change your speed or duplex setting before you link the adapter to the switch.
Although you can change speed and duplex settings after the team is created, Intel recommends you
disconnect the cables until settings are in effect. In some cases, switches or servers might not appro-
priately recognize modified speed or duplex settings if settings are changed when there is an active link
to the network.
l If you are configuring a VLAN, check your switch documentation for VLAN compatibility notes. Not all
switches support simultaneous dynamic 802.3ad teams and VLANs. If you do choose to set up
VLANs, configure teaming and VLAN settings on the adapter before you link the adapter to the switch.
Setting up VLANs after the switch has created an active aggregator affects VLAN functionality.
Multi-Vendor Teaming
Multi-Vendor Teaming (MVT) allows teaming with a combination of Intel and non-Intel adapters.
If you are using a Windows-based computer, adapters that appear in the Intel PROSet teaming wizard can be
included in a team.
MVT Design Considerations

l In order to activate MVT, you must have at least one Intel adapter or integrated connection in the team,
which must be designated as the primary adapter.
l A multi-vendor team can be created for any team type.
l All members in an MVT must operate on a common feature set (lowest common denominator).
l Manually verify that the frame setting for the non-Intel adapter is the same as the frame settings for the
Intel adapters.
l If a non-Intel adapter is added to a team, its RSS settings must match the Intel adapters in the team.
Removing Phantom Teams and Phantom VLANs
If you physically remove all adapters that are part of a team or VLAN from the system without removing them
via the Device Manager first, a phantom team or phantom VLAN will appear in Device Manager. There are two
methods to remove the phantom team or phantom VLAN.
Removing the Phantom Team or Phantom VLAN through the Device Manager

Follow these instructions to remove a phantom team or phantom VLAN from the Device Manager:
1. In the Device Manager, double-click on the phantom team or phantom VLAN.
2. Click the Settings tab.
3. Select Remove Team or Remove VLAN.
Preventing the Creation of Phantom Devices

To prevent the creation of phantom devices, make sure you perform these steps before physically removing
an adapter from the system:
1. Remove the adapter from any teams using the Settings tab on the team properties dialog box.
2. Remove any VLANs from the adapter using the VLANs tab on the adapter properties dialog box.
3. Uninstall the adapter from Device Manager.
You do not need to follow these steps in hot-replace scenarios.
Power Management Tab
The Intel PROSet Power Management tab replaces the standard Microsoft* Windows* Power
Management tab in Device Manager. The standard Windows power management functionality is included on
the Intel PROSet tab.

NOTES:
l The options available on the Power Management tab are adapter and system dependent. Not
all adapters will display all options. There may be BIOS or operating system settings that
need to be enabled for your system to wake up. In particular, this is true for Wake from S5
(also referred to as Wake from power off).
l The Intel 10 Gigabit Network Adapters do not support power management.
l If your system has a Manageability Engine, the Link LED may stay lit even if WoL is
disabled.

Power Options

The Intel PROSet Power Management tab includes several settings that control the adapter's power
consumption. For example, you can set the adapter to reduce its power consumption if the cable is
disconnected.
Reduce Power if Cable Disconnected & Reduce Link Speed During Standby
Enables the adapter to reduce power consumption when the LAN cable is disconnected from the adapter and
there is no link. When the adapter regains a valid link, adapter power usage returns to its normal state (full
power usage).
The Hardware Default option is available on some adapters. If this option is selected, the feature is disabled or
enabled based on the system hardware.

Range The range varies with the operating system and adapter.

Ultra Low Power Mode When Cable is Disconnected

Enabling Ultra Low Power (ULP) mode significantly reduces power consumption when the network cable is
disconnected from the device.

NOTE: If you experience link issues when two ULP-capable devices are connected back to back,
disable ULP mode on one of the devices.

Energy Efficient Ethernet

The Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) feature allows a capable device to enter Low-Power Idle between bursts
of network traffic. Both ends of a link must have EEE enabled for any power to be saved. Both ends of the link
will resume full power when data needs to be transmitted. This transition may introduce a small amount of
network latency.

NOTES:
l Both ends of the EEE link must automatically negotiate link
speed.
l EEE is not supported at 10 Mbps.
Wake on LAN Options

The ability to remotely wake computers is an important development in computer management. This feature
has evolved over the last few years from a simple remote power-on capability to a complex system interacting
with a variety of device and operating system power states.
Microsoft Windows Server is ACPI-capable. Windows does not support waking from a power-off (S5) state,
only from standby (S3) or hibernate (S4). When shutting down the system, these states shut down ACPI
devices, including Intel adapters. This disarms the adapter's remote wake-up capability. However, in some
ACPI-capable computers, the BIOS may have a setting that allows you to override the operating system and
wake from an S5 state anyway. If there is no support for wake from S5 state in your BIOS settings, you are
limited to Wake From Standby when using these operating systems in ACPI computers.
The Intel PROSet Power Management tab includes Wake on Magic Packet and Wake on directed packet
settings. These control the type of packets that wake up the system from standby.
For some adapters, the Power Management tab in Intel PROSet includes a setting called Wake on Magic
Packet from power off state. Enable this setting to explicitly allow wake-up with a Magic Packet* from
shutdown under APM power management mode.

NOTES:
l To use the Wake on Directed Packet feature, WoL must first be enabled in the EEPROM
using BootUtil.
l If Reduce speed during standby is enabled, then Wake on Magic Packet and/or Wake
on directed packet must be enabled. If both of these options are disabled, power is
removed from the adapter during standby.
l Wake on Magic Packet from power off state has no effect on this option.

WoL Supported Devices

The following adapters support WoL only on Port A:
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T4
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-T4
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-F4
l Intel Gigabit ET2 Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PF Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Quad Port LP Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Dual Port Network Connection
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Dual Port Server Connection
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PF Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel Gigabit PT Quad Port Server ExpressModule
The following adapters do not support WoL:
 l Intel PRO/1000 MT Quad Port Server adapter
l Intel Gigabit VT Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-1
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X540-T1
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X540-T2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X540-T1
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-4
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-T4
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network AdapterXL710-Q1
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter XL710-Q2
Most Intel 10GbE Network Adapters do not support Wake on LAN on any port.
l The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550-T1 and Intel Ethernet Converged Network
Adapter X550-T2 have a manageability/AUX power connector. These devices only support WoL if
AUX power is supplied via this connector.Note that this is system and adapter specific. Some devices
with this connector do not support WoL. Some systems do not provide the correct power connection.
See your system documentation for details.

Configuring with IntelNetCmdlets Module for Windows PowerShell*

The IntelNetCmdlets module for Windows PowerShell contains several cmdlets that allow you to configure
and manage the Intel Ethernet Adapters and devices present in your system. For a complete list of these
cmdlets and their descriptions, type get-help IntelNetCmdlets at the Windows PowerShell prompt. For
detailed usage information for each cmdlet, type get-help <cmdlet_name> at the Windows PowerShell
prompt.

NOTE: Online help (get-help -online) is not supported.

Install the IntelNetCmdlets module by checking the Windows PowerShell Module checkbox during the driver
and PROSet installation process. Then use the Import-Module cmdlet to import the new cmdlets. You may
need to restart Windows PowerShell to access the newly imported cmdlets.
To use the Import-Module cmdlet, you must specify the path. For example:
PS c:\> Import-Module -Name "C:\Program Files\Intel\IntelNetCmdlets"

NOTE: If you include a trailing backslash ("\") at the end of the Import-Module command, the import
operation will fail. In Microsoft Windows* 10 and Windows Server* 2016, the auto-complete function
appends a trailing backslash. If you use auto-complete when entering the Import-Module command,
delete the trailing backslash from the path before pressing Return to execute the command.

See Microsoft TechNet for more information about the Import-Module cmdlet.
System requirements for using IntelNetCmdlets:
l Microsoft* Windows PowerShell* version 2.0
l .NET version 2.0

Configuring SR-IOV for improved network security

In a virtualized environment, on Intel Server Adapters that support SR-IOV, the virtual function (VF) may be
subject to malicious behavior. Software-generated frames are not expected and can throttle traffic between
the host and the virtual switch, reducing performance. To resolve this issue, configure all SR-IOV enabled
ports for VLAN tagging. This configuration allows unexpected, and potentially malicious, frames to be
dropped.

Changing Intel PROSet Settings via Microsoft* Windows PowerShell*

You can use the IntelNetCmdlets module for Windows PowerShell to change most Intel PROSet settings.

NOTE: If an adapter is bound to an ANS team, do not change settings using the Set
NetAdapterAdvanceProperty cmdlet from Windows PowerShell*, or any other cmdlet not provided
by Intel. Doing so may cause the team to stop using that adapter to pass traffic. You may see this
as reduced performance or the adapter being disabled in the ANS team. You can resolve this issue
by changing the setting back to its previous state, or by removing the adapter from the ANS team
and then adding it back.

Saving and Restoring an Adapter's Configuration Settings

The Save and Restore Command Line Tool allows you to copy the current adapter and team settings into a
standalone file (such as on a USB drive) as a backup measure. In the event of a hard drive failure, you can
reinstate most of your former settings.
The system on which you restore network configuration settings must have the same configuration as the one
on which the save was performed.

NOTES:
l You must have Administrator privileges to run scripts. If you do not have Administrator priv-
ileges, you will not receive an error, the script just will not run.
l Only adapter settings are saved (these include ANS teaming and VLANs). The adapter's
driver is not saved.
l Restore using the script only once. Restoring multiple times may result in unstable con-
figuration.
l The Restore operation requires the same OS as when the configuration was Saved.
l Intel PROSet for Windows*Device Manager must be installed for the SaveRestore.ps1
script to run.
l For systems running a 64-bit OS, be sure to run the 64-bit version of Windows PowerShell,
not the 32-bit (x86) version, when running the SaveRestore.ps1 script.

Command Line Syntax

SaveRestore.ps1 Action save|restore [-ConfigPath] [-BDF]

SaveRestore.ps1 has the following command line options:

 Option Description

-Action Required. Valid values: save | restore.

The save option saves adapter and team settings that have been changed from the default
settings. When you restore with the resulting file, any settings not contained in the file are
assumed to be the default.
The restore option restores the settings.

-ConfigPath Optional. Specifies the path and filename of the main configuration save file. If not spe-
cified, it is the script path and default filename (saved_config.txt).

-BDF Optional. Default configuration file names are saved_config.txt and Saved_StaticIP.txt.
If you specify -BDF during a restore, the script attempts to restore the configuration based
on the PCI Bus:Device:Function:Segment values of the saved configuration. If you
removed, added, or moved a NIC to a different slot, this may result in the script applying
the saved settings to a different device.
NOTES:
l If the restore system is not identical to the saved system, the script may not
restore any settings when the -BDF option is specified.
l Virtual Function devices do not support the -BDF option.

Examples

Save Example
To save the adapter settings to a file on a removable media device, do the following.
1. Open a Windows PowerShell Prompt.
2. Navigate to the directory where SaveRestore.ps1 is located (generally c:\Program Files\Intel\DMIX).
3. Type the following:
SaveRestore.ps1 Action Save ConfigPath e:\settings.txt
Restore Example
To restore the adapter settings from a file on removable media, do the following:
1. Open a Windows PowerShell Prompt.
2. Navigate to the directory where SaveRestore.ps1 is located (generally c:\Program Files\Intel\DMIX).
3. Type the following:
SaveRestore.ps1 Action Restore ConfigPath e:\settings.txt
Intel Network Drivers for DOS
The NDIS2 (DOS) driver is provided solely for the purpose of loading other operating systems -- for example,
during RIS or unattended installations. It is not intended as a high-performance driver.
You can find adapter drivers, PROTOCOL.INI files, and NET.CFG files in the PRO100\DOS or
PRO1000\DOS directory in the download folder. For additional unattended install information, see the text
files in the operating system subdirectories under the APPS\SETUP\PUSH directory.

Automatic or Explicit Configuration of a Single NIC or Multiple NICs

When the driver finds that only one adapter is installed in the system, it will use that adapter regardless of
whether or not parameters in PROTOCOL.INI are present or correct. If the parameters do not match the
actual configuration, the driver will display warning messages indicating that the parameter was not used.
One instance of the driver must be loaded for each adapter that is activated. When multiple adapters are
installed, the SLOT parameter becomes advisable but not required.
The determination as to which adapter each driver will control should be made by the user based on the
protocol stack(s) bound to each driver, and based on the network that is connected to each adapter. The
BINDINGS list in each protocol stacks PROTOCOL.INI section establishes the relationship between
protocol stacks and drivers. The SLOT parameter in the drivers PROTOCOL.INI section establishes the
relationship between drivers and adapters, and a value can be provided for each driver loaded. If a SLOT
parameter is not specified, the first driver instance will load on the first NIC/Port found in the scanning list, the
second driver instance will load on the second NIC/Port found in the scanning list, etc. When the driver
detects multiple NICs/Ports it will report all of the possible slots. The only way for the driver to know which
driver instance is being loaded is to use the DRIVERNAME parameter instance number. Therefore, it is
essential that the DRIVERNAME parameter instance syntax defined below be used correctly.
The adapters are automatically configured by the PCI system BIOS when the system boots. The driver
queries the PCI BIOS and obtains all of the adapters configuration information. BIOS scanning using
mechanisms 1 and 2, as defined in the PCI BIOS specification, are supported. The SLOT number is actually
the encoded value of the PCI adapters device location, which is defined as shown below. The SLOT value
reported by the driver and entered by the user is the value of bits 0 through 15. In versions of the driver prior to
2.01, the SLOT value reported by the driver and entered by the user was shifted right by 3 bits (divided by 8) so
that SLOT 0x0088 was actually entered into PROTOCOL.INI as 0x0011. This doesnt allow for multi-function
devices to be specified with this SLOT parameter. So starting with v2.01, the driver does not shift the input
parameter by 3 bits and SLOT 0x0088 would be entered as 0x0088. This also allows for specifying slot
0x0081 = Bus 0 Device 16 Function 1. If the driver finds that the entered SLOT number is not found in its slot
list table, it may be because the SLOT uses the older convention (shifted right). The driver then tries to match
this old style slot parameter to a slot in the slot list and loads on that slot if it finds a match. This is done for
backward compatibility.

Configuring with the PROTOCOL.INI File

The configuration parameters listed below are supported through the PROTOCOL.INI file. When the machine
has a single adapter, all the parameters (except DRIVERNAME) are optional; when the machine has multiple
adapters, some of the parameters are required.
DRIVERNAME
This is the only parameter required for all configurations. This parameter is essentially an "instance ID". Each
instance of the driver must create a unique instance name, both to satisfy DOS driver requirements, and to
make it possible to find the parameters for the instance in the PROTOCOL.INI file.
When the driver initializes, it tries to find previously loaded instances of itself. If none are found, the driver
calls itself "E1000$", and looks for that name in the PROTOCOL.INI file to find its parameters. If one or more
instances are found, the driver calls itself "E100x$", where 'x' is one more than the value used by the most
recently loaded instance. So, in this scenario, the second driver calls itself "E1002$", the third calls itself
"E1003$", and so on; there is no driver called "E1001$". Up to 10 drivers can be loaded in a single system in
this way.

Syntax: DRIVERNAME = [E1000$| E1002$| etc.]

Example: DRIVERNAME = E1000$

Default: None, this is a required parameter.

Normal The driver finds its section in PROTOCOL.INI by matching its instance ID to the value for
Behavior: this parameter.

Possible The device driver uses a DOS function to display the name of the driver it is expecting. This
Errors: function cannot display a '$' character. For this reason, the user may see a message refer-
ring to this value without the '$'; the user must remember to enter the '$' character as part of
the parameter's value.

SPEEDDUPLEX
The parameter disables Auto-Speed-Detect and causes the adapter to function at the speed indicated. Do not
include this parameter if you want your Gigabit adapter to connect at 1000 Mbps.

Syntax: SPEEDDUPLEX = [0 | 1 | 2 | 3]

Example: SPEEDDUPLEX = 2

Default: Parameter not included in PROTOCOL.INI

Normal Behavior: 0 = 10 Mbps half duplex

1 = 10 Mbps full duplex
2 = 100Mbps half duplex
3 = 100Mbps full duplex

Possible Errors: If the SPEEDDUPLEX parameter is set to an invalid value:

l The parameter is ignored and the default (Auto-Speed-Detect)
is used
l A message indicates a "Parameter value out of range" error

SLOT
This parameter makes it possible for the driver to uniquely identify which of the adapters is to be controlled by
the driver. The parameter can be entered in hexadecimal or decimal.
 Syntax: SLOT = [0x0..0x1FFF]
SLOT = [0..8191]

Examples: SLOT = 0x1C

SLOT = 28

Default: The driver will Auto-Configure if possible.

Normal Beha- The driver uses the value of the parameter to decide which adapter to control.
vior:

Possible Errors: If only one adapter is installed, and the value does not correctly indicate the adapter
slot:
l A message indicates that the value does not match the actual configuration
l The driver finds the adapter and uses it
If more than one adapter is installed, and the value does not correctly indicate an
adapter slot:
l A message indicates possible slots to use
l The driver loads on the next available slot

NODE
This parameter sets the Individual Address of the adapter, overriding the value read from the EEPROM.

Syntax: NODE = "12 hexadecimal digits"

l The value must be exactly 12 hexadecimal digits, enclosed in double quotes.
l The value can not be all zeros.
l The value can not have the Multicast bit set (LSB of 2nd digit = 1).

Example: NODE = 00AA00123456

Default: Value from EEPROM installed on adapter

Normal The Current Station Address in the NDIS MAC Service-Specific Characteristics (MSSC)
Behavior: table is assigned the value of this parameter. The adapter hardware is programmed to
receive frames with the destination address equal to the Current Station Address in the
MSSC table. The Permanent Station Address in the MSSC table will be set to reflect the
node address read from the adapter's EEPROM.

Possible If any of the rules described above are violated, the driver treats this as a fatal error and an
Errors: error message occurs, indicating the correct rules for forming a proper address.

ADVERTISE
This parameter can be used to restrict the speeds and duplexes advertised to a link partner during auto-
negotiation. If AutoNeg = 1, this value is used to determine what speed and duplex combinations are
advertised to the link partner. This field is treated as a bit mask.
 Syntax: ADVERTISE = [1 | 2 | 4 | 8 | 0x20 | 0x2F]:
0x01 = 10 Half, 0x02 = 10 Full, 0x04 = 100 Half, 0x08 = 100 Full, 0x20 = 1000 Full,
0x2F = all rates

Example: ADVERTISE = 1

Default: 0x2F (all rates are supported)

Normal Beha- By default all speed/duplex combinations are advertised.

vior:

Possible An error message is displayed if the value given is out of range.

Errors:

FLOWCONTROL
This parameter, which refers to IEEE 802.3x flow control, helps prevent packets from being dropped and can
improve overall network performance. Specifically, the parameter determines what flow control capabilities
the adapter advertises to its link partner when auto negotiation occurs. This setting does NOT force flow
control to be used. It only affects the advertised capabilities.

NOTES:
l Due to errata in the 82542 silicon, the chip is not able to receive PAUSE frames if the
ReportTxEarly parameter is set to 1. Thus, if ReportTxEarly =1 and the driver is running on
an adapter using this silicon (such as the PWLA8490), the driver will modify the FlowControl
parameter to disable the ability to receive PAUSE frames.
l If half-duplex is forced or auto-negotiated, the driver will completely disable flow control.

Syntax: FLOWCONTROL = [0 | 1 | 2 | 3 |0xFF]

Example: FLOWCONTROL = 1

Default: 3

Normal Behavior: 0 = Disabled (No flow control capability)

1 = Receive Pause Frames (can receive and respond to PAUSE frames)
2 = Transmit Pause Frames (can send PAUSE frames)
3 = Both Enabled (can send and receive PAUSE frames)
0xFF = Hardware Default.

Possible Errors: An error message is displayed if the value given is out of range.

USELASTSLOT
This parameter causes the driver to load on the device in the last slot found in the slot scan. The default
behavior of the driver is to load on the first adapter found in the slot scan. This parameter forces the driver to
load on the last one found instead.
 Syntax: UseLastSlot = [0 | any other value ]

Example: USELASTSLOT = 1

Default: 0

Normal Behavior: 0 = Disabled, any other value = Enabled

Possible Errors: None

TXLOOPCOUNT
This parameter controls the number of times the transmit routine loops while waiting for a free transmit buffer.
This parameter can affect Transmit performance.

Syntax: TXLOOPCOUNT = <32-bit value>

Example: TXLOOPCOUNT = 10000

Default: 1000

Normal Behavior: Default

Possible Errors: None

Data Center Bridging (DCB) for Intel Network Con-
nections
Data Center Bridging provides a lossless data center transport layer for using LANs and SANs in a single
unified fabric.
Data Center Bridging includes the following capabilities:
l Priority-based flow control (PFC; IEEE 802.1Qbb)
l Enhanced transmission selection (ETS; IEEE 802.1Qaz)
l Congestion notification (CN)
l Extensions to the Link Layer Discovery Protocol standard (IEEE 802.1AB) that enable Data Center
Bridging Capability Exchange Protocol (DCBX)
There are two supported versions of DCBX.
CEE Version: The specification can be found as a link within the following document:
http://www.ieee802.org/1/files/public/docs2008/dcb-baseline-contributions-1108-v1.01.pdf
IEEE Version: The specification can be found as a link within the following document:
https://standards.ieee.org/findstds/standard/802.1Qaz-2011.html

NOTE: The OS DCBX stack defaults to the CEE version of DCBX, and if a peer is transmitting
IEEE TLVs, it will automatically transition to the IEEE version.

For more information on DCB, including the DCB Capability Exchange Protocol Specification, go to
http://www.ieee802.org/1/pages/dcbridges.html

DCB for Windows Configuration:

Intel Ethernet Adapter DCB functions can be configured using Windows Device Manager. Open the adapter's
property sheet and select the Data Center tab.
You can use the Intel PROSet to perform the following tasks:
l Display Status:
l Enhanced Transmission Selection
l Priority Flow Control
l FCoE Priority
Non-operational status: If the Status indicator shows that DCB is non-operational, there may
be a number of possible reasons:
l DCB is not enabled - select the checkbox to enable DCB.
l One or more of the DCB features is in a non-operational state. The features which con-
tribute to the non-operational status are PFC and APP:FCoE.
A non-operational status is most likely to occur when Use Switch Settings is selected or
Using Advanced Settings is active. This is generally a result of one or more of the DCB
features not getting successfully exchanged with the switch. Possible problems include:
 l One of the features is not supported by the switch.
l The switch is not advertising the feature.
l The switch or host has disabled the feature (this would be an advanced setting for the
host).
l Disable/enable DCB
l Troubleshooting information

Hyper-V (DCB and VMQ)

NOTE: Configuring a device in the VMQ + DCB mode reduces the number of VMQs available for
guest OSes.

DCB for Linux

DCB is supported on RHEL6 or later or SLES11 SP1 or later. See your operating system documentation for
specifics.

iSCSI Over DCB

Intel Ethernet adapters support iSCSI software initiators that are native to the underlying operating system.
Data Center Bridging is most often configured at the switch. If the switch is not DCB capable, the DCB
handshake will fail but the iSCSI connection will not be lost.

NOTE: DCB does not install in a VM. iSCSI over DCB is only supported in the base OS. An iscsi ini-
tiator running in a VM will not benefit from DCB ethernet enhancements.

Microsoft Windows Configuration

iSCSI installation includes the installation of the iSCSI DCB Agent (iscsidcb.exe) user mode service. The
Microsoft iSCSI Software Initiator enables the connection of a Windows host to an external iSCSI storage
array using an Intel Ethernet adapter. Please consult your operating system documentation for configuration
details.
Enable DCB on the adapter by the following:
1. From Windows Device Manager, expand Networking Adapters and highlight the appropriate
adapter (such as Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520). Right click on the Intel adapter and select
Properties.
2. In the Property Page, select the Data Center Tab.
The Data Center Tab provides feedback as to the DCB state, operational or non- operational, as well as
providing additional details should it be non-operational.

Using iSCSI over DCB with ANS Teaming

The Intel iSCSI Agent is responsible for maintaining all packet filters for the purpose of priority tagging iSCSI
traffic flowing over DCB-enabled adapters. The iSCSI Agent will create and maintain a traffic filter for an ANS
Team if at least one member of the team has an "Operational" DCB status. However, if any adapter on the
team does not have an "Operational" DCB status, the iSCSI Agent will log an error in the Windows Event Log
for that adapter. These error messages are to notify the administrator of configuration issues that need to be
addressed, but do not affect the tagging or flow of iSCSI traffic for that team, unless it explicitly states that the
TC Filter has been removed.

Linux Configuration
In the case of Open Source distributions, virtually all distributions include support for an Open iSCSI Software
Initiator and Intel Ethernet adapters will support them. Please consult your distribution documentation for
additional configuration details on their particular Open iSCSI initiator.
Intel 82599 and X540-based adapters support iSCSI within a Data Center Bridging cloud. Used in
conjunction with switches and targets that support the iSCSI/DCB application TLV, this solution can provide
guaranteed minimum bandwidth for iSCSI traffic between the host and target. This solution enables storage
administrators to segment iSCSI traffic from LAN traffic, similar to how they can currently segment FCoE
from LAN traffic. Previously, iSCSI traffic within a DCB supported environment was treated as LAN traffic by
switch vendors. Please consult your switch and target vendors to ensure that they support the iSCSI/DCB
application TLV.
Remote Boot
Remote Boot allows you to boot a system using only an Ethernet adapter. You connect to a server that
contains an operating system image and use that to boot your local system.

Flash Images
"Flash" is a generic term for nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM), firmware, and option ROM (OROM). Depending on
the device, it can be on the NIC or on the system board.

Updating the Flash in Microsoft Windows

Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager can update the flash on an Intel Ethernet network adapter.
However, if you need to enable or disable the Boot ROM use BootUtil.
Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager can only be used to program add-in Intel Ethernet network
adapters. LOM (LAN On Motherboard) network connections cannot be programmed with the UEFI network
driver option ROM.

Using Intel PROSet to flash the UEFI Network Driver Option ROM

Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager can install the UEFI network driver on an Intel network
adapter's option ROM. The UEFI network driver will load automatically during system UEFI boot when
installed in the option ROM. UEFI specific *.FLB images are included in the downloaded release media. The
"Boot Options" tab in Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager will allow the UEFI *.FLB image to be
installed on the network adapter.

Updating the Flash from Linux

The BootUtil command line utility can update the flash on an Intel Ethernet network adapter. Run BootUtil with
the following command line options to update the flash on all supported Intel network adapters. For example,
enter the following command line:
bootutil64e up=efi all

BootUtil can only be used to program add-in Intel network adapters. LOM (LAN On Motherboard) network
connections cannot be programmed with the UEFI network driver option ROM.
See the bootutil.txt file for details on using BootUtil.

Installing the UEFI Network Driver Option ROM from the UEFI Shell
The BootUtil command line utility can install the UEFI network driver on an Intel network adapter's option
ROM. The UEFI network driver will load automatically during system UEFI boot when installed into the option
ROM. For example, run BootUtil with the following command line options to install the UEFI network driver on
all supported Intel network adapters:
FS0:\>bootutil64e up=efi all

BootUtil can only be used to program add-in Intel Ethernet network adapters. LOM (LAN On Motherboard)
network connections cannot be programmed with the UEFI network driver option ROM.
See the bootutil.txt file for details on using BootUtil.
Enable Remote Boot
If you have an Intel Desktop Adapter installed in your client computer, the flash ROM device is already
available in your adapter, and no further installation steps are necessary. For Intel Server Adapters, the flash
ROM can be enabled using the BootUtil utility. For example, from the command line type:
BOOTUTIL -E
BOOTUTIL -NIC=1 -FLASHENABLE

The first line will enumerate the ports available in your system. Choose a port. Then type the second line,
selecting the port you wish to enable. For more details, see the bootutil.txt file.

UEFI Network Device Driver for Intel Ethernet Network Connections

UEFI Network Stack
As of UEFI 2.1 there are two network stack configurations under UEFI. The most common configuration is the
PXE based network stack. The alternate network stack provides IPv4 TCP, UDP, and MTFTP network
protocol support. As of UEFI 2.1 the PXE and IP-based network stacks cannot be loaded or operate
simultaneously. The following two sections describe each UEFI network stack configuration.
Reference implementations of the PXE and IP based network stack source code are available for download at
www.tianocore.org.

Loading the UEFI Network Driver

The network driver can be loaded using the UEFI shell "load" command:
load e3040e2.efi

Configuring UEFI Network Stack for PXE

The PXE (Preboot eXecution Environment) based UEFI network stack provides support for UEFI network
boot loaders downloaded from a WFM compliant PXE server. Services which can be enabled include
Windows Deployment Services (WDS), Linux network installation (Elilo), and TFTP file transfers. To enable
UEFI PXE services the following network protocol drivers must be loaded with: snp.efi, bc.efi, and
pxedhcp4.efi. These drivers can be loaded from the UEFI "load" shell command, but are often included as part
of the UEFI system firmware. The UEFI shell command "drivers" can be used to determine if the UEFI PXE
drivers are included in the UEFI implementation. The drivers command will output a table listing drivers loaded
in the system. The following entries must be present in order to network boot a UEFI system over PXE:

DRV VERSION TYPE CFG DIAG #D #C DRIVER NAME IMAGE

NAME

F5 00000010 D - - 2 - Simple Network Protocol SNP

Driver

F7 00000010 D - - 2 - PXE Base Code Driver BC

F9 00000010 D - - 2 - PXE DHCPv4 Driver PxeDhcp4

FA 03004000 B X X 2 2 Intel(R) Network Connection /e3000e2.efi

3.0.00
A network boot option will appear in the boot options menu when the UEFI PXE network stack and Intel UEFI
network driver have been loaded. Selecting this
boot option will initiate a PXE network boot.

Configuring UEFI Network Stack for TCP/UDP/MTFTP

An IP-based network stack is available to applications requiring IP-based network protocols such as TCP,
UDP, or MTFTP. The following UEFI network drivers must be built into the UEFI platform implementation to
enable this stack: SNP (Simple Network Protocol), MNP (Managed Network Protocol), ARP, DHCP4, IPv4,
ip4config, TCPv4, UDPv4, and MTFTPv4. These drivers will show up in the UEFI "drivers" command output
if they are included in the platform UEFI implementation:

DRV VERSION TYPE CFG DIAG #D #C DRIVER NAME IMAGE

NAME

F5 00000010 D - - 2 - IP4 CONFIG Network Ser- Ip4Config

vice Driver

F7 00000010 D - - 2 - Simple Network Protocol SNP

Driver

F8 00000010 D - - 2 - ARP Network Service Driver Arp

F9 00000010 D - - 2 - Tcp Network Service Driver Tcp4

FA 00000010 D - - 2 - IP4 Network Service Driver Ip4

FB 00000010 D - - 2 - DHCP Protocol Driver Dhcp4

FC 00000010 D - - 6 - UDP Network Service Driver Udp4

FD 00000010 D - - 2 - MTFTP4 Network Service Mtftp4

FE 00000010 B - - 2 6 MNP Network Service Driver /mnp.efi

FF 03099900 B X X 2 2 Intel(R) Network Connection /e3000e2.efi

3.0.00

The ifconfig UEFI shell command must be used to configure each network interface. Running "ifconfig -?"
from the UEFI shell will display usage instructions for ifconfig.

Unloading the UEFI Network Driver

To unload a network driver from memory the UEFI "unload" command is used. The syntax for using the unload
command is as follows: "unload [driver handle]", where driver handle is the number assigned to the driver in
the far left column of the "drivers" output screen.

Force Speed and Duplex

The UEFI network driver supports forced speed and duplex capability. The force speed and duplex menu can
be accessed with UEFI shell command "drvcfg":
drvcfg -s [driver handle] [control handle]
The following speed and duplex configurations can be selected:
l Autonegotiate (recommended)
l 100 Mbps, full duplex
l 100 Mbps, half duplex
l 10 Mbps, full duplex
l 10 Mbps, half duplex
The speed and duplex setting selected must match the speed and duplex setting of the connecting network
port. A speed and duplex mismatch between ports will result in dropped packets and poor network
performance. It is recommended to set all ports on a network to autonegotiate. Connected ports must be set
to autonegotiate in order to establish a 1 gigabit per second connection.
Fiber-optic and 10 gigabit ethernet adapters do not support forced speed and duplex.

Diagnostic Capability
The UEFI network driver features built in hardware diagnostic tests. The diagnostic tests are called with the
UEFI shell drvdiag command.

drvdiag -s -Performs a basic hardware register test.

drvdiag -e -Performs an internal loopback transmit and receive test.

UEFI Known Issues

Long Initialization Times

Long initialization times observed with Intels UEFI driver are caused when the UNDI.Initialize command is
called with the PXE_OPFLAGS_INITIALIZE_CABLE_DETECT flag set. In this case, UNDI.Initialize will try
to detect the link state.
If the port is connected and link is up, initialize will generally finish in about 3.5 seconds (the time needed to
establish link, dependent on link conditions, link speed and controller type) and returns PXE_STATFLAGS_
COMMAND_COMPLETE. If the port is disconnected (link is down), initialize will complete in about 5
seconds and return PXE_STATFLAGS_INIIALIZED_NO_MEDIA (driver initializes hardware then waits for
link and timeouts when link is not establish in 5 seconds).
When UNDI.Initialize is called with PXE_OPFLAGS_INITIALIZE_DO_NOT_DETECT_CABLE the function
will not try to detect link status and will take less than 1 second to complete.
The behavior of UNDI.Initialize is described in UEFI specs 2.3.1: Initializing the network device will take up to
four seconds for most network devices and in some extreme cases (usually poor cables) up to twenty
seconds. Control will not be returned to the caller and the COMMAND_COMPLETE status flag will not be set
until the adapter is ready to transmit.

Intel Boot Agent Configuration

Boot Agent Client Configuration
The Intel Boot Agent software provides configuration options that allow you to customize the behavior of the
Intel Boot Agent software. You can configure the Intel Boot Agent in any of the following environments:
l A Microsoft* Windows* Environment
l A Microsoft* MS-DOS* environment
l A pre-boot environment (before operating system is loaded)
The Intel Boot Agent supports PXE in pre-boot, Microsoft Windows*, and DOS environments. In each of
these environments, a single user interface allows you to configure PXE protocols on Intel Ethernet
Adapters.

Configuring the Intel Boot Agent in a Microsoft Windows Environment

If you use the Windows operating system on your client computer, you can use Intel PROSet for Windows*
Device Manager to configure and update the Intel Boot Agent software. Intel PROSet is available through the
device manager. Intel PROSet provides a special tab, called the Boot Options tab, used for configuring and
updating the Intel Boot Agent software.
To access the Boot Options tab:
1. Open Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager by opening the System Control Panel. On the
Hardware tab, click Device Manager.
2. Select the appropriate adapter and click the Boot Options tab. If the tab does not appear, update your
network driver.
3. The Boot Options tab shows a list of current configuration parameters and their corresponding values.
Corresponding configuration values appear for the selected setting in a drop-down box.
4. Select a setting you want to change from the Settings selection box.
5. Select a value for that setting from the Value drop-down list.
6. Repeat the preceding two steps to change any additional settings.
7. Once you have completed your changes, click Apply Changes to update the adapter with the new
values.

Configuring the Intel Boot Agent in an MS-DOS Environment

Intel provides a utility, Intel Ethernet Flash Firmware Utility (BootUtil) for installing and configuring the Intel
Boot Agent using the DOS environment. See bootutil.txt for complete information.

Configuring the Intel Boot Agent in a Pre-Boot PXE Environment

NOTE: Intel Boot Agent may be disabled in the BIOS.

You can customize the behavior of the Intel Boot Agent software through a pre-boot (operating system
independent) configuration setup program contained within the adapter's flash ROM. You can access this pre-
boot configuration setup program each time the client computer cycles through the boot process.
When the boot process begins, the screen clears and the computer begins its Power On Self Test (POST)
sequence. Shortly after completion of the POST, the Intel Boot Agent software stored in flash ROM executes.
The Intel Boot Agent then displays an initialization message, similar to the one below, indicating that it is
active:
Initializing Intel(R) Boot Agent Version X.X.XX
PXE 2.0 Build 083

NOTE: This display may be hidden by the manufacturer's splash screen. Consult your man-
ufacturer's documentation for details.
The configuration setup menu shows a list of configuration settings on the left and their corresponding values
on the right. Key descriptions near the bottom of the menu indicate how to change values for the configuration
settings. For each selected setting, a brief "mini-Help" description of its function appears just above the key
descriptions.
1. Highlight the setting you need to change by using the arrow keys.
2. Once you have accessed the setting you want to change, press the spacebar until the desired value
appears.
3. Once you have completed your changes, press F4 to update the adapter with the new values. Any
changed configuration values are applied as the boot process resumes.
The table below provides a list of configuration settings, their possible values, and their detailed descriptions:

Configuration Possible Description

Setting Values

Network Boot PXE Select PXE for use with Network management programs, such as
Protocol (Preboot LANDesk* Management Suite.
eXecution
NOTE: Depending on the configuration of the Intel Boot Agent, this
Environment)
parameter may not be changeable.

Boot Order Use BIOS Sets the boot order in which devices are selected during boot up if
Setup Boot the computer does not have its own control method.
Order If your client computer's BIOS supports the BIOS Boot
Try network Specification (BBS), or allows PnP-compliant selection of the boot
first, then order in the BIOS setup program, then this setting will always be
local drives Use BIOS Setup Boot Order and cannot be changed. In this
Try local case, refer to the BIOS setup manual specific to your client
drives first, computer to set up boot options.
then network If your client computer does not have a BBS- or PnP-compliant
Try network BIOS, you can select any one of the other possible values listed for
only this setting except for Use BIOS Setup Boot Order.

Try local
drives only

Legacy OS 0 = Disabled If set to 1, the Intel Boot Agent will enable PME in the adapters PCI
Wakeup (Default configuration space during initialization. This allows remote wakeup
Support. (For Value) under legacy operating systems that dont normally support it. Note
82559-based that enabling this makes the adapter technically non-compliant with
1 = Enabled
adapters the ACPI specification, which is why the default is disabled.
only)

NOTE: If, during PXE boot, more than one adapter is installed in a computer and you want to boot
from the boot ROM located on a specific adapter, you can do so by moving the adapter to the top of
the BIOS Boot Order or by disabling the flash on the other adapters.

While the configuration setup menu is displayed, diagnostics information is also displayed in the lower half of
the screen. This information can be helpful during interaction with Intel Customer Support personnel or your IT
team members. For more information about how to interpret the information displayed, refer to Diagnostics
Information for Pre-boot PXE Environments.

Intel Boot Agent Target/Server Setup

Overview

For the Intel Boot Agent software to perform its intended job, there must be a server set up on the same
network as the client computer. That server must recognize and respond to the PXE or BOOTP boot protocols
that are used by the Intel Boot Agent software.

NOTE: When the Intel Boot Agent software is installed as an upgrade for an earlier version boot
ROM, the associated server-side software may not be compatible with the updated Intel Boot
Agent. Contact your system administrator to determine if any server updates are necessary.

Linux* Server Setup

Consult your Linux* vendor for information about setting up the Linux Server.

Windows* Deployment Services

Nothing is needed beyond the standard driver files supplied on the media. Microsoft* owns the process and
associated instructions for Windows Deployment Services. For more information on Windows Deployment
Services perform a search of Microsoft articles at: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx

Intel Boot Agent Messages

Message
Cause
Text

Invalid PMM PMM is not installed or is not working correctly. Try updating the BIOS.
function num-
ber.

PMM allocation PMM could not or did not allocate the requested amount of memory for driver usage.
error.

Option ROM ini- This may be caused by the system BIOS assigning a 64-bit BAR (Base Address
tialization error. Register) to the network port. Running the BootUtil utility with the -64d command
64-bit PCI BAR line option may resolve this issue.
addresses not
supported, AX=

PXE-E00: This System does not have enough free memory to run PXE image. The Intel Boot Agent
system does was unable to find enough free base memory (below 640K) to install the PXE client
not have software. The system cannot boot via PXE in its current configuration. The error
enough free con- returns control to the BIOS and the system does not attempt to remote boot. If this
ventional error persists, try updating your system's BIOS to the most-recent version. Contact
memory. The your system administrator or your computer vendor's customer support to resolve
Intel Boot Agent the problem.
cannot con-
tinue.

PXE-E01: PCI Image vendor and device ID do not match those located on the card. Make sure the
Vendor and correct flash image is installed on the adapter.
Device IDs do
not match!

PXE-E04: Error PCI configuration space could not be read. Machine is probably not PCI compliant.
reading PCI con- The Intel Boot Agent was unable to read one or more of the adapter's PCI con-
figuration figuration registers. The adapter may be mis-configured, or the wrong Intel Boot
space. The Intel Agent image may be installed on the adapter. The Intel Boot Agent will return control
Boot Agent can- to the BIOSand not attempt to remote boot. Try to update the flash image. If this
not continue. does not solve the problem, contact your system administrator or Intel Customer
Support.

PXE-E05: The The adapter's EEPROM is corrupted. The Intel Boot Agent determined that the
LAN adapter's adapter EEPROM checksum is incorrect. The agent will return control to the BIOS
configuration is and not attempt to remote boot. Try to update the flash image. If this does not solve
corrupted or has the problem, contact your system administrator or Intel Customer Support.
not been
initialized. The
Intel Boot Agent
cannot con-
tinue.

PXE-E06: The system BIOS does not support DDIM. The BIOS does not support the mapping
Option ROM of the PCI expansion ROMs into upper memory as required by the PCI spe-
requires DDIM cification. The Intel Boot Agent cannot function in this system. The Intel Boot Agent
support. returns control to the BIOS and does not attempt to remote boot. You may be able to
resolve the problem by updating the BIOS on your system. If updating your sys-
tem's BIOS does not fix the problem, contact your system administrator or your
computer vendor's customer support to resolve the problem.

PXE-E07: PCI BIOS-level PCI services not available. Machine is probably not PCI compliant.
BIOS calls not
supported.

PXE-E09: Unex- The UNDI loader returned an unknown error status. xx is the status returned.
pected UNDI
loader error.
Status == xx

PXE-E20: BIOS could not move the image into extended memory.
BIOS extended
memory copy
error.

PXE-E20: Error occurred while trying to copy the image into extended memory. xx is the BIOS
BIOS extended failure code.
memory copy
error.AH == xx

PXE-E51: No The Intel Boot Agent did not receive any DHCP or BOOTP responses to its initial
DHCP or request. Please make sure that your DHCP server (and/or proxyDHCP server, if
BOOTP offers one is in use) is properly configured and has sufficient IP addresses available for
received. lease. If you are using BOOTP instead, make sure that the BOOTP service is run-
ning and is properly configured.

PXE-E53: No The Intel Boot Agent received a DHCP or BOOTP offer, but has not received a
boot filename valid filename to download. If you are using PXE, please check your PXE and BINL
received. configuration. If using BOOTP, be sure that the service is running and that the spe-
cific path and filename are correct.

PXE-E61: The adapter does not detect link. Please make sure that the cable is good and is
Media test fail- attached to a working hub or switch. The link light visible from the back of the
ure. adapter should be lit.

PXE-EC1: No base code could be located. An incorrect flash image is installed or the image
Base-code has become corrupted. Try to update the flash image.
ROM ID struc-
ture was not
found.

PXE-EC3: BC Base code could not be installed. An incorrect flash image is installed or the image
ROM ID struc- has become corrupted. Try to update the flash image.
ture is invalid.

PXE-EC4: UNDI ROM ID structure signature is incorrect. An incorrect flash image is installed
UNDI ID struc- or the image has become corrupted. Try to update the flash image.
ture was not
found.

PXE-EC5: The structure length is incorrect. An incorrect flash image is installed or the image
UNDI ROM ID has become corrupted. Try to update the flash image.
structure is
invalid.

PXE-EC6: The UNDI driver image signature was invalid. An incorrect flash image is installed
UNDI driver or the image has become corrupted. Try to update the flash image.
image is invalid.
 PXE-EC8: The Intel Boot Agent could not locate the needed !PXE structure resource. An
!PXE structure incorrect flash image is installed or the image has become corrupted. Try to update
was not found the flash image.
in UNDI driver
This may also be caused by the system BIOS assigning a 64-bit BAR (Base
code segment.
Address Register) to the network port. Running the BootUtil utility with the -64d
command line option may resolve this issue.

PXE-EC9: The Intel Boot Agent could not locate the needed PXENV+ structure. An incorrect
PXENV + struc- flash image is installed or the image has become corrupted. Try to update the flash
ture was not image.
found in UNDI
driver code seg-
ment.

PXE-M0F: Exit- Ending execution of the ROM image.

ing Intel Boot
Agent.

This option has You attempted to change a configuration setting that has been locked by your sys-
been locked tem administrator. This message can appear either from within Intel PROSet's
and cannot be Boot Options tab when operating under Windows* or from the Configuration Setup
changed. Menu when operating in a stand-alone environment. If you think you should be able
to change the configuration setting, consult your system administrator.

PXE-M0E: The Intel Boot Agent did not successfully complete a network boot due to a network
Retrying net- error (such as not receiving a DHCP offer). The Intel Boot Agent will continue to
work boot; attempt to boot from the network until successful or until canceled by the user. This
press ESC to feature is disabled by default. For information on how to enable this feature, contact
cancel. Intel Customer Support.

Intel Boot Agent Troubleshooting Procedures

Common Issues

The following list of problems and associated solutions covers a representative set of problems that you might
encounter while using the Intel Boot Agent.
After booting, my computer experiences problems

After the Intel Boot Agent product has finished its sole task (remote booting), it no longer has any effect on
the client computer operation. Thus, any issues that arise after the boot process is complete are most likely
not related to the Intel Boot Agent product.
If you are having problems with the local (client) or network operating system, contact the operating system
manufacturer for assistance. If you are having problems with some application program, contact the
application manufacturer for assistance. If you are having problems with any of your computer's hardware or
with the BIOS, contact your computer system manufacturer for assistance.
Cannot change boot order

If you are accustomed to redefining your computer's boot order using the motherboard BIOS setup program,
the default settings of the Intel Boot Agent setup program can override that setup. To change the boot
sequence, you must first override the Intel Boot Agent setup program defaults. A configuration setup menu
appears allowing you to set configuration values for the Intel Boot Agent. To change your computer's boot
order setting, see Configuring the Boot Agent in a Pre-boot PXE Environment.
My computer does not complete POST

If your computer fails to boot with an adapter installed, but does boot when you remove the adapter, try
moving the adapter to another computer and using BootUtil to disable the Flash ROM.
If this does not work, the problem may be occurring before the Intel Boot Agent software even begins
operating. In this case, there may be a BIOS problem with your computer. Contact your computer
manufacturer's customer support group for help in correcting your problem.
There are configuration/operation problems with the boot process

If your PXE client receives a DHCP address, but then fails to boot, you know the PXE client is working
correctly. Check your network or PXE server configuration to troubleshoot the problem. Contact Intel
Customer Support if you need further assistance.
POST hang may occur if two or more ports on Quad Port Server Adapters are configured for PXE

If you have an Intel Gigabit VT Quad Port Server Adapter, Intel PRO/1000 PT Quad Port LP Server
Adapter, or an Intel PRO/1000 PF Quad Port Server Adapter with two or more ports configured for PXE, you
may experience POST hangs on some server systems. If this occurs the suggested workaround is move the
adapter to another system and disable PXE on all but one port of the Adapter. You may also be able to prevent
this problem by disabling any on-board SCSI or SAS controllers in your system BIOS.
PXE option ROM does not follow the PXE specification with respect to the final "discover" cycle

In order to avoid long wait periods, the option ROM no longer includes the final 32-second discover cycle. (If
there was no response in the prior 16-second cycle, it is almost certain that there will be none in the final 32-
second cycle.

Diagnostics Information for Pre-boot PXE Environments

Anytime the configuration setup menu is displayed (see Configuring the Boot Agent in a Pre-boot PXE
Environment), diagnostics information is also displayed on the lower portion of the screen. The information
displayed appears similar to that shown in the lower half of the screen image below. This information can be
helpful during interaction with Intel Customer Support personnel or your IT team members.

NOTE: Actual diagnostics information may vary, depending upon the adapter(s) installed in your
computer.
Diagnostics information may include the following items:

Item Description

PWA The Printed Wire Assembly number identifies the adapter's model and version.
Number

MAC The unique Ethernet address assigned to the device.

Address

Memory The memory address assigned by the BIOS for memory-mapped adapter access.

I/O The I/O port address assigned by the BIOS for I/O-mapped adapter access.

IRQ The hardware interrupt assigned by the system BIOS.

UNB The address in upper memory where the Boot Agent is installed by the BIOS.

PCI ID The set of PCI identification values from the adapter in the form:
VendorID/DeviceID/SubvendorID/SubdeviceID/Revision

Slot The PCI bus address (slot number)reported by the BIOS.

NOTE: The number displayed is the BIOS version of the PCI slot number. Therefore, actual
positions of NICs withinphysical slots may not be displayed as expected. Slots are not
always enumerated in an obvious manner, and this will only report what is indicated by the
BIOS.
 Flags A set of miscellaneous data either read from the adapter EEPROM or calculated by the
Boot Agent initialization code. This information varies from one adapter to the next and is
only intended for use by Intel customer support.

iSCSI Boot Configuration

iSCSI Initiator Setup
Configuring Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot on a Microsoft* Windows* Client Initiator

Requirements
1. Make sure the iSCSI initiator system starts the iSCSI Boot firmware. The firmware should be con-
figured properly, be able to connect to iSCSI target, and detect the boot disk.
2. You will need Microsoft* iSCSI Software Initiator with integrated software boot support. This boot ver-
sion of the initiator is available here.
3. To enable crash dump support, follow the steps in Crash Dump Support.

Configuring Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot on a Linux* Client Initiator

1. Install the Open-iSCSI initiator utilities.

#yum -y install iscsi-inititator-utils

2. Refer to the README file found at https://github.com/mikechristie/open-iscsi.

3. Configure your iSCSI array to allow access.
a. Examine /etc/iscsi/initiatorname.iscsi for the Linux host initiator name.
b. Update your volume manager with this host initiator name.
4. Set iscsi to start on boot.
#chkconfig iscscd on
#chkconfig iscsi on

5. Start iSCSI service (192.168.x.x is the IP Address of your target).

#iscsiadm -n discovery -t s -p 192.168.x.x

Observe the target names returned by iscsi discovery.

6. Log onto the target (-m XXX -T is XXX -l XXX -).
iscsiadm -m node -T iqn.2123-01.com:yada:yada: -p 192.168.2.124
-l

iSCSI Boot POST Setup

Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot features a setup menu which allows two network ports in one system to be
enabled as iSCSI Boot devices. To configure Intel iSCSI Boot, power-on or reset the system and press the
Ctrl-D key when the message "Press <Ctrl-D> to run setup..." is displayed. After pressing the
Ctrl-D key, you will be taken to the Intel iSCSI Boot Port Selection Setup Menu.
 NOTE: When booting an operating system from a local disk, Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot should be
disabled for all network ports.

Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot Port Selection Menu

The first screen of the Intel iSCSI Boot Setup Menu displays a list of Intel iSCSI Boot-capable adapters.
For each adapter port the associated PCI device ID, PCI bus/device/function location, and a field indicating
Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot status is displayed. Up to 10 iSCSI Boot-capable ports are displayed within the
Port Selection Menu. If there are more Intel iSCSI Boot-capable adapters, these are not listed in the setup
menu.

The usage of this menu is described below:

l One network port in the system can be selected as the primary boot port by pressing the 'P' key when
highlighted. The primary boot port will be the first port used by Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot to connect to
the iSCSI target. Only one port may be selected as a primary boot port.
l One network port in the system can be selected as the secondary boot port by pressing the 'S' key
when highlighted. The secondary boot port will only be used to connect to the iSCSI target disk if the
primary boot port fails to establish a connection. Only one port may be selected as a secondary boot
port.
l Pressing the 'D' key with a network port highlighted will disable Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot on that
port.
l Pressing the 'B' key with a network port highlighted will blink an LED on that port.
l Press the Esc key to leave the screen.
 Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot Port Specific Setup Menu

The port specific iSCSI setup menu has four options:

l Intel iSCSI Boot Configuration - Selecting this option will take you to the iSCSI Boot Configuration
Setup Menu. The iSCSI Boot Configuration Menu is described in detail in the section below and will
allow you to configure the iSCSI parameters for the selected network port.
l CHAP Configuration - Selecting this option will take you to the CHAP configuration screen. The
CHAP Configuration Menu is described in detail in the section below.
l Discard Changes and Exit - Selecting this option will discard all changes made in the iSCSI Boot
Configuration and CHAP Configuration setup screens, and return back to the iSCSI Boot Port Selec-
tion Menu.
l Save Changes and Exit - Selecting this option will save all changes made in the iSCSI Boot Con-
figuration and CHAP Configuration setup screens. After selecting this option, you will return to the
iSCSI Boot Port Selection Menu.
Intel iSCSI Boot Configuration Menu
The Intel iSCSI Boot Configuration Menu allows you to configure the iSCSI Boot and Internet Protocol (IP)
parameters for a specific port. The iSCSI settings can be configured manually or retrieved dynamically from a
DHCP server.
Listed below are the options in the Intel iSCSI Boot Configuration Menu:
l Use Dynamic IP Configuration (DHCP) - Selecting this checkbox will cause iSCSI Boot to attempt
to get the client IP address, subnet mask, and gateway IP address from a DHCP server. If this check-
box is enabled, these fields will not be visible.
l Initiator Name - Enter the iSCSI initiator name to be used by Intel iSCSI Boot when connecting to an
iSCSI target. The value entered in this field is global and used by all iSCSI Boot-enabled ports in the
system. This field may be left blank if the "Use DHCP For Target Configuration" checkbox
is enabled. For information on how to retrieve the iSCSI initiator name dynamically from a DHCP
server see the section DHCP Server Configuration.
l Initiator IP - Enter the client IP address to be used for this port as static IP configuration in this field.
This IP address will be used by the port during the entire iSCSI session. This option is visible if DHCP
is not enabled.
l Subnet Mask - Enter the IP subnet-mask in this field. This should be the IP subnet mask used on the
network which the selected port will be connecting to for iSCSI. This option is visible if DHCP is not
enabled.
l Gateway IP - Enter the IP address of the network gateway in this field. This field is necessary if the
iSCSI target is located on a different sub-network than the selected Intel iSCSI Boot port. This option
is visible if DHCP is not enabled.
l Use DHCP for iSCSI Target Information - Selecting this checkbox will cause Intel iSCSI Boot to
attempt to gather the iSCSI target's IP address, IP port number, iSCSI target name, and SCSI LUN ID
from a DHCP server on the network. For information on how to configure the iSCSI target parameters
using DHCP see the section DHCP Server Configuration. When this checkbox is enabled, these fields
will not be visible.
l Target Name - Enter the IQN name of the iSCSI target in this field. This option is visible if DHCP for
iSCSI target is not enabled.
 l Target IP - Enter the target IP address of the iSCSI target in this field. This option is visible if DHCP
for iSCSI target is not enabled.
l Target Port - TCP Port Number.
lBoot LUN - Enter the LUN ID of the boot disk on the iSCSI target in this field. This option is visible if
DHCP for iSCSI target is not enabled.
iSCSI CHAP Configuration
Intel iSCSI Boot supports Mutual CHAP MD5 authentication with an iSCSI target. Intel iSCSI Boot uses
the "MD5 Message Digest Algorithm" developed by RSA Data Security, Inc.

The iSCSI CHAP Configuration menu has the following options to enable CHAP authentication:
l Use CHAP - Selecting this checkbox will enable CHAP authentication for this port. CHAP allows the
target to authenticate the initiator. After enabling CHAP authentication, a user name and target pass-
word must be entered.
l User Name - Enter the CHAP user name in this field. This must be the same as the CHAP user name
configured on the iSCSI target.
l Target Secret - Enter the CHAP password in this field. This must be the same as the CHAP password
configured on the iSCSI target and must be between 12 and 16 characters in length. This password
can not be the same as the Initiator Secret.
l Use Mutual CHAP Selecting this checkbox will enable Mutual CHAP authentication for this port.
Mutual CHAP allows the initiator to authenticate the target. After enabling Mutual CHAP authen-
tication, an initiator password must be entered. Mutual CHAP can only be selected if Use CHAP is
selected.
l Initiator Secret - Enter the Mutual CHAP password in this field. This password must also be con-
figured on the iSCSI target and must be between 12 and 16 characters in length. This password can
not be the same as the Target Secret.
The CHAP Authentication feature of this product requires the following acknowledgements:
This product includes cryptographic software written by Eric Young ([email protected]). This product
includes software written by Tim Hudson ([email protected]).
This product includes software developed by the OpenSSL Project for use in the OpenSSL Toolkit.
(http://www.openssl.org/).
Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager
Many of the functions of the Intel iSCSI Boot Port Selection Setup Menu can also be configured or revised
from Windows Device Manager. Open the adapter's property sheet and select the Data Options tab. You
must install the latest Intel Ethernet Adapter drivers and software to access this.

iSCSI Boot Target Configuration

For specific information on configuring your iSCSI target system and disk volume, refer to instructions
provided by your system or operating system vendor. Listed below are the basic steps necessary to setup
Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot to work with most iSCSI target systems. The specific steps will vary from one
vendor to another.

NOTE: To support iSCSI Boot, the target needs to support multiple sessions from the same ini-
tiator. Both the iSCSI Boot firmware initiator and the OS High Initiator need to establish an iSCSI
session at the same time. Both these initiators use the same Initiator Name and IP Address to con-
nect and access the OS disk but these two initiators will establish different iSCSI sessions. In order
for the target to support iSCSI Boot, the target must be capable of supporting multiple sessions and
client logins.

1. Configure a disk volume on your iSCSI target system. Note the LUN ID of this volume for use when
configuring in Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot firmware setup.
2. Note the iSCSI Qualified Name (IQN) of the iSCSI target, which will likely look like:
iqn.1986-03.com.intel:target1

This value is used as the iSCSI target name when you configuring your initiator system's Intel
Ethernet iSCSI Boot firmware.
3. Configure the iSCSI target system to accept the iSCSI connection from the iSCSI initiator. This
usually requires listing the initiator's IQN name or MAC address for permitting the initiator to access to
the disk volume. See the Firmware Setup section for information on how to set the iSCSI initiator
name.
4. One-way authentication protocol can optionally be enabled for secure communications. Challenge-
Handshake Authentication Protocol (CHAP) is enabled by configuring username/password on iSCSI
target system. For setting up CHAP on the iSCSI initiator, refer to the section Firmware Setup for
information.

Booting from Targets Larger than 2TB

You can connect and boot from a target LUN that is larger than 2 Terabytes with the following restrictions:
 l The block size on the target must be 512 bytes
l The following operating systems are supported:
l VMware* ESX 5.0, or later
l Red Hat* Enterprise Linux* 6.3, or later
l SUSE* Enterprise Linux 11SP2, or later
l Microsoft* Windows Server* 2012, or later
l You may be able to access data only within the first 2 TB.

NOTE: The Crash Dump driver does not support target LUNs larger than 2TB.

DHCP Server Configuration

If you are using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), the DHCP server needs to be configured to
provide the iSCSI Boot configurations to the iSCSI initiator. You must set up the DHCP server to specify
Root Path option 17 and Host Name option 12 to respond iSCSI target information back to the iSCSI initiator.
DHCP option 3, Router List may be necessary, depending on the network configuration.
DHCP Root Path Option 17:
The iSCSI root path option configuration string uses the following format:
iscsi:<server name or IP address>:<-
protocol>:<port>:<LUN>:<targetname>

l Server name: DHCP server name or valid IPv4 address literal.

Example: 192.168.0.20.
l Protocol: Transportation protocol used by ISCSI. Default is tcp (6).
No other protocols are currently supported.
l Port: Port number of the iSCSI. A default value of 3260 will be used if this
field is left blank.
l LUN: LUN ID configured on iSCSI target system. Default is zero.
Target name: iSCSI target name to uniquely identify an iSCSI target in
l

IQN format.
Example: iqn.1986-03.com.intel:target1
DHCP Host Name Option 12:
Configure option 12 with the hostname of the iSCSI initiator.
DHCP Option 3, Router List:
Configure option 3 with the gateway or Router IP address, if the iSCSI initiator and
iSCSI target are on different subnets.

Creating a Bootable Image for an iSCSI Target

There are two ways to create a bootable image on an iSCSI target:

l Install directly to a hard drive in an iSCSI storage array (Remote Install).
l Install to a local disk drive and then transfer this disk drive or OS image to an iSCSI Target (Local
Install).
 Microsoft* Windows*
Microsoft* Windows Server* natively supports OS installation to an iSCSI target without a local disk and also
natively supports OS iSCSI boot. See Microsoft's installation instructions and Windows Deployment
Services documentation for details.
SUSE* Linux Enterprise Server
For the easiest experience installing Linux onto an iSCSI target, you should use SLES10 or greater. SLES10
provides native support for iSCSI Booting and installing. This means that there are no additional steps outside
of the installer that are necessary to install to an iSCSI target using an Intel Ethernet Server Adapter. Please
refer to the SLES10 documentation for instructions on how to install to an iSCSI LUN.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
For the easiest experience installing Linux onto an iSCSI target, you should use RHEL 5.1 or greater. RHEL
5.1 provides native support for iSCSI Booting and installing. This means that there are no additional steps
outside of the installer that are necessary to install to an iSCSI target using an Intel Ethernet Server Adapter.
Please refer to the RHEL 5.1 documentation for instructions on how to install to an iSCSI LUN.

Microsoft Windows Server iSCSI Crash Dump Support

Crash dump file generation is supported for iSCSI-booted Windows Server x64 by the Intel iSCSI Crash
Dump Driver. To ensure a full memory dump is created:
1. Set the page file size equal to or greater than the amount of RAM installed on your system is necessary
for a full memory dump.
2. Ensure that the amount of free space on your hard disk is able to handle the amount of RAM installed
on your system.
To setup crash dump support follow these steps:
1. Setup Windows iSCSI Boot.
2. If you have not already done so, install the latest Intel Ethernet Adapter drivers and Intel PROSet for
Windows Device Manager.
3. Open Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager and select the Boot Options Tab.
4. From Settings select iSCSI Boot Crash Dump and the Value Enabled and click OK.

iSCSI Troubleshooting
The table below lists problems that can possibly occur when using Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot. For each
problem a possible cause and resolution are provided.

Problem Resolution

Intel Ethernet iSCSI l While the system logon screen may display for a longer time during
Boot does not load on system startup, Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot may not be displayed dur-
system startup and the ing POST. It may be necessary to disable a system BIOS feature in
sign-on banner is not order to display messages from Intel iSCSI Remote Boot. From the
displayed. system BIOS Menu, disable any quiet boot or quick boot options.
Also disable any BIOS splash screens. These options may be sup-
pressing output from Intel iSCSI Remote Boot.
 l Intel Ethernet iSCSI Remote Boot has not been installed on the
adapter or the adapter's flash ROM is disabled. Update the network
adapter using the latest version of BootUtil as described in the Flash
Images section of this document. If BootUtil reports the flash ROM
is disabled, use the "BOOTUTIL -flashenable" command to
enable the flash ROM and update the adapter.
l The system BIOS may be suppressing output from Intel Ethernet
iSCSI Boot.
l Sufficient system BIOS memory may not be available to load Intel
Ethernet iSCSI Boot. Attempt to disable unused disk controllers and
devices in the system BIOS setup menu. SCSI controllers, RAID
controller, PXE enabled network connections, and shadowing of sys-
tem BIOS all reduce the memory area available to Intel Ethernet
iSCSI Boot. Disable these devices and reboot the system to see if
Intel iSCSI Boot is able to initialize. If disabling the devices in the
system BIOS menu does not resolve the problem then attempt to
remove unused disk devices or disk controllers from the system.
Some system manufacturers allow unused devices to be disabled by
jumper settings.

After installing Intel l A critical system error has occurred during iSCSI Remote Boot
Ethernet iSCSI Boot, initialization. Power on the system and press the 's' key or 'ESC' key
the system will not boot before Intel iSCSI Remote Boot initializes. This will bypass the Intel
to a local disk or Ethernet iSCSI Boot initialization process and allow the system to
network boot device. boot to a local drive. Use the BootUtil utility to update to the latest
The system becomes version of Intel Ethernet iSCSI Remote Boot.
unresponsive after Intel
l Updating the system BIOS may also resolve the issue.
Ethernet iSCSI Boot
displays the sign-on
banner or after
connecting to the iSCSI
target.

"Intel iSCSI l The system BIOS may not support Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot.
Remote Boot" does Update the system BIOS with the most recent version available from
not show up as a boot the system vendor.
device in the system l A conflict may exist with another installed device. Attempt to disable
BIOS boot device unused disk and network controllers. Some SCSI and RAID con-
menu. trollers are known to cause compatibility problems with Intel iSCSI
Remote Boot.

Error message l Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot was unable to detect link on the network
displayed: port. Check the link detection light on the back of the network
"Failed to detect link" connection. The link light should illuminate green when link is
established with the link partner. If the link light is illuminated but the
error message still displays then attempt to run the Intel link and
cable diagnostics tests using DIAGS.EXE for DOS or Intel PROSet
 for Windows.

Error message iSCSI was configured to retrieve an IP address from DHCP but no DHCP
displayed: server responded to the DHCP discovery request. This issue can have
"DHCP Server not multiple causes:
found!" l The DHCP server may have used up all available IP address reser-
vations.
l The client iSCSI system may require static IP address assignment
on the connected network.
l There may not be a DHCP server present on the network.
l Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) on the network switch may be pre-
venting the Intel iSCSI Remote Boot port from contacting the DHCP
server. Refer to your network switch documentation on how to dis-
able Spanning Tree Protocol.

Error message l Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot was not able to detect a valid PnP PCI
displayed: BIOS. If this message displays Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot cannot run
"PnP Check Structure on the system in question. A fully PnP compliant PCI BIOS is
is invalid!" required to run Intel iSCSI Remote Boot.

Error message l The iSCSI configuration information received from DHCP or

displayed: statically configured in the setup menu is incomplete and an attempt
"Invalid iSCSI to login to the iSCSI target system could not be made. Verify that the
connection information" iSCSI initiator name, iSCSI target name, target IP address, and
target port number are configured properly in the iSCSI setup menu
(for static configuration) or on the DHCP server (for dynamic BOOTP
configuration).

Error message l The iSCSI target system is configured to use a disk block size that
displayed: is not supported by Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot. Configure the iSCSI
"Unsupported SCSI target system to use a disk block size of 512 bytes.
disk block size!"

Error message l Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot was unable to establish a TCP/IP
displayed: connection with the iSCSI target system. Verify that the initiator and
"ERROR: Could not target IP address, subnet mask, port and gateway settings are
establish TCP/IP configured properly. Verify the settings on the DHCP server if
connection with iSCSI applicable. Check that the iSCSI target system is connected to a
target system." network accessible to the Intel iSCSI Remote Boot initiator. Verify
that the connection is not being blocked by a firewall.

Error message l The CHAP user name or secret does not match the CHAP
displayed: configuration on the iSCSI target system. Verify the CHAP
"ERROR: CHAP configuration on the Intel iSCSI Remote Boot port matches the
authentication with iSCSI target system CHAP configuration. Disable CHAP in the
target failed." iSCSI Remote Boot setup menu if it is not enabled on the target.
Error message l A login request was sent to the iSCSI target system but the login
displayed: request was rejected. Verify the iSCSI initiator name, target name,
"ERROR: Login LUN number, and CHAP authentication settings match the settings
request rejected by on the iSCSI target system. Verify that the target is configured to
iSCSI target system." allow the Intel iSCSI Remote Boot initiator access to a LUN.

When installing Linux to l If these error messages are seen, unused iscsi interfaces on NetApp
NetApp Filer, after a Filer should be disabled.
successful target disk l Continuous=no should be added to the iscsi.conf file
discovery, error
messages may be seen
similar to those listed
below.
Iscsi-sfnet:hostx:
Connect failed with rc -
113: No route to host
Iscsi-sfnet:hostx:
establish_session
failed. Could not
connect to target

Error message dis- l A TCP/IP connection was successfully made to the target IP
played. address, however an iSCSI target with the specified iSCSI target
"ERROR: iSCSI target name could not be found on the target system. Verify that the con-
not found." figured iSCSI target name and initiator name match the settings on
the iSCSI target.

Error message dis- l The iSCSI target cannot accept any new connections. This error
played. could be caused by a configured limit on the iSCSI target or a lim-
"ERROR: iSCSI target itation of resources (no disks available).
can not accept any
more connections."

Error message dis- l An error has occurred on the iSCSI target. Inspect the iSCSI target
played. to determine the source of the error and ensure it is configured prop-
"ERROR: iSCSI target erly.
has reported an error."

Error message dis- l A system on the network was found using the same IP address as
played. the iSCSI Option ROM client.
ERROR: There is an IP l If using a static IP address assignment, attempt to change the IP
address conflict with address to something which is not being used by another client on
another system on the the network.
network. l If using an IP address assigned by a DHCP server, make sure there
are no clients on the network which are using an IP address which
conflicts with the IP address range used by the DHCP server.
iSCSI Known Issues
A device cannot be uninstalled if it is configured as an iSCSI primary or secondary port.
Disabling the iSCSI primary port also disables the secondary port. To boot from the secondary port, change it
to be the primary port.
iSCSI Remote Boot: Connecting back-to-back to a target with a Broadcom LOM

Connecting an iSCSI boot host to a target through a Broadcom LOM may occasionally cause the connection
to fail. Use a switch between the host and target to avoid this.
iSCSI Remote Boot Firmware may show 0.0.0.0 in DHCP server IP address field

In a Linux base DHCP server, the iSCSI Remote Boot firmware shows 0.0.0.0 in the DHCP server IP
address field. The iSCSI Remote Boot firmware looks at the DHCP server IP address from the Next-Server
field in the DHCP response packet. However, the Linux base DHCP server may not set the field by default.
Add "Next-Server <IP Address>;" in dhcpd.conf to show the correct DHCP server IP address.
iSCSI traffic stops after disabling RSC

To prevent a lost connection, Receive Segment Coalescing (RSC) must be disabled prior to configuring a
VLAN bound to a port that will be used for connecting to an iSCSI target. Workaround this issue by disabling
Receive Segment Coalescing before setting up the VLAN. This will avoid this traffic stop.

Microsoft Windows iSCSI Boot Issues

During OS install, injecting drivers from a DUP can cause a blue screen

During installation of Microsoft Windows Server 2012 on an iSCSI LUN, if you inject drivers from a DUP
during the installation, you may experience a blue screen. Please install the hotfix described in kb2782676 to
resolve the issue.
Microsoft Initiator does not boot without link on boot port:

After setting up the system for Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot with two ports connected to a target and
successfully booting the system, if you later try to boot the system with only the secondary boot port
connected to the target, Microsoft Initiator will continuously reboot the system.
To work around this limitation follow these steps:
1. Using Registry Editor, expand the following registry key:
\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters

2. Create a DWORD value called DisableDHCPMediaSense and set the value to 0.

Support for Platforms Booted by UEFI iSCSI Native Initiator

Starting with version 2.2.0.0, the iSCSI crash dump driver gained the ability to support platforms booted using
the native UEFI iSCSI initiator over supported Intel Network Adapters. This support is available on Windows
Server or newer and only on x64 architecture. Any hotfixes listed above must also be applied.
Since network adapters on UEFI platforms may not provide legacy iSCSI option ROM, the boot options tab in
DMIX may not provide the setting to enable the iSCSI crash dump driver. If this is the case, the following
registry entry has to be created:
HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E97B-E325-11CE-
BFC1-08002BE10318}\<InstanceID>\Parameters
DumpMiniport REG_SZ iscsdump.sys
Moving iSCSI adapter to a different slot:

In a Windows* installation, if you move the iSCSI adapter to a PCI slot other than the one that it occupied
when the drivers and MS iSCSI Remote Boot Initiator were installed, then a System Error may occur during
the middle of the Windows Splash Screen. This issue goes away if you return the adapter to its original PCI
slot. We recommend not moving the adapter used for iSCSI boot installation. This is a known OS issue.
If you have to move the adapter to another slot, then perform the following:
1. Boot the operating system and remove the old adapter
2. Install a new adapter into another slot
3. Setup the new adapter for iSCSI Boot
4. Perform iSCSI boot to the OS via the original adapter
5. Make the new adapter iSCSI-bootable to the OS
6. Reboot
7. Move the old adapter into another slot
8. Repeat steps 2 - 5 for the old adapter you have just moved
Uninstalling Driver can cause blue screen

If the driver for the device in use for iSCSI Boot is uninstalled via Device Manager, Windows will blue screen
on reboot and the OS will have to be re-installed. This is a known Windows issue.
During OS install, injecting drivers from a DUP can cause a blue screen

During installation of Microsoft Windows Server 2012 on an iSCSI LUN, if you inject drivers from a DUP
during the installation, you may experience a blue screen. Please install the hotfix described in kb2782676 to
resolve the issue.
Adapters flashed with iSCSI image are not removed from the Device Manager during uninstall

During uninstallation all other Intel Network Connection Software is removed, but drivers for iSCSI Boot
adapters that have boot priority.
I/OAT Offload may stop with Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot or with Microsoft Initiator installed

A workaround for this issue is to change the following registry value to "0":
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\IOATDMA\Start
Only change the registry value if iSCSI Boot is enabled and if you want I/OAT offloading. A blue screen will
occur if this setting is changed to "0" when iSCSI Boot is not enabled. It must be set back to "3" if iSCSI Boot
is disabled or a blue screen will occur on reboot.
NDIS Driver May Not Load During iSCSI Boot F6 Install With Intel PRO/1000 PT Server Adapter

If you are using two Intel PRO/1000 PT Server Adapters in two PCI Express x8 slots of a rack mounted
Xeon system, Windows installation can be done only via a local HDD procedure.
Automatic creation of iSCSI traffic filters for DCB, using Virtual Adapters created by Hyper-V, is only supported on Microsoft*
Windows Server* 2008 releases R2 and later.

The iSCSI for Data Center Bridging (DCB) feature uses Quality of Service (QOS) traffic filters to tag outgoing
packets with a priority. The Intel iSCSI Agent dynamically creates these traffic filters as needed for Windows
Server 2008 R2 and later.
Invalid CHAP Settings May Cause Windows Server 2008 to Blue Screen

If an iSCSI Boot port CHAP user name and secret do not match the target CHAP user name and secret,
Windows Server 2008 may blue screen or reboot during installation or boot. Ensure that all CHAP settings
match those set on the target(s).
Microsoft* Windows Server* 2008 Installation When Performing a WDS Installation

If you perform a WDS installation and attempt to manually update drivers during the installation, the drivers
load but the iSCSI Target LUN does not display in the installation location list. This is a known WDS limitation
with no current fix. You must therefore either perform the installation from a DVD or USB media or inject the
drivers on the WDS WinPE image.
Microsoft has published a knowledge base case explaining the limitation in loading drivers when installing with
iSCSI Boot via a WDS server.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/960924
With high iSCSI traffic on Microsoft* Windows 2003 Server* R2, link flaps can occur with 82598-based silicon

This issue is caused by the limited support for Large Send Offload (LSO) in this Operating System. Please
note that if ISCSI traffic is required for Windows 2003 Server R2, LSO will be disabled.
F6 Driver Does Not Support Standby Mode.

If you are performing an F6 Windows without a Local Disk installation, do not use Standby Mode.
F6 installation may fail with some EMC targets

An F6 installation may fail during the reboot in step 10 of Installing Windows 2003 without a Local Disk
because of a conflict between the Intel F6 driver, the Microsoft iSCSI Initiator and the following EMC target
model firmware versions:
l AX4-5 arrays: 02.23.050.5.705 or higher.
l CX300, CX500, CX700, and CX-3 Series arrays: 03.26.020.5.021 or higher.
l CX-4 Series arrays: 04.28.000.5.701 or higher, including all 04.29.000.5.xxx revisions.
To avoid the failure, ensure that the secondary iSCSI port cannot reach the target during the reboot in step 10.
iSCSI Boot and Teaming in Windows

Teaming is not supported with iSCSI Boot. Creating a team using the primary and secondary iSCSI adapters
and selecting that team during the Microsoft initiator installation may fail with constant reboots. Do not select
a team for iSCSI Boot, even if it is available for selection during initiator installation.
For load balancing and failover support, you can use MSFT MPIO instead. Check the Microsoft Initiator User
Guide on how to setup MPIO.
Setting LAA (Locally Administered Address) on an iSCSI Boot-Enabled Port Will Cause System Failure on Next Reboot

Do not set LAA on ports with iSCSI Boot enabled.

Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot version does not match between displayed versions on DMIX and the scrolling text during boot

If a device is not set to primary but is enumerated first, the BIOS will still use that device's version of iSCSI
Boot. Therefore the user may end up using an earlier version of Intel Ethernet iSCSI Boot than expected.
The solution is that all devices in the system must have the same version of iSCSI Boot. To do this the user
should go to the Boot Options Tab and update the devices' flash to the latest version.
IPv6 iSCSI login to Intel Corporation EqualLogic arrays using jumbo frames

To establish an iSCSI session using IPv6 and jumbo frames with Dell EqualLogic arrays, TCP/UDP
checksum offloads on the Intel iSCSI adapter should be disabled.

Microsoft Windows iSCSI/DCB Known Issues

iSCSI over DCB using Microsoft* Windows Server* 2012

iSCSI over DCB (priority tagging) is not possible on the port on which VMSwitch is created. This is by design
in Microsoft* Windows Server* 2012.
Automatic creation of iSCSI traffic filters for DCB is only supported on networks which make use of IPv4 addressing

The iSCSI for Data Center Bridging (DCB) feature uses Quality of Service (QOS) traffic filters to tag outgoing
packets with a priority. The Intel iSCSI Agent dynamically creates these traffic filters as needed on networks
using IPv4 addressing.
IPv6 iSCSI login to Dell EqualLogic arrays using jumbo frames

To establish an iSCSI session using IPv6 and jumbo frames with Dell EqualLogic arrays, TCP/UDP
checksum offloads on the Intel iSCSI adapter should be disabled.

Linux Known Issues

Channel Bonding

Linux Channel Bonding has basic compatibility issues with iSCSI Boot and should not be used.
Authentications errors on EqualLogic target may show up in dmesg when running Red Hat* Enterprise Linux 4

These error messages do not indicate a block in login or booting and may safely be ignored.
LRO and iSCSI Incompatibility

LRO (Large Receive Offload) is incompatible with iSCSI target or initiator traffic. A panic may occur when
iSCSI traffic is received through the ixgbe driver with LRO enabled. The driver should be built and installed
with:
# make CFLAGS_EXTRA=-DIXGBE_NO_LRO install

FCoE Boot Configuration

FCoE Client Setup

Installing and Configuring Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot on a Microsoft* Windows* Cli-
ent
WARNINGS:
l Do not update the base driver via the Windows Update method
Doing so may render the system inoperable, generating a blue screen. The FCoE Stack
and base driver need to be matched. The FCoE stack may get out of sync with the base
driver if the base driver is updated via Windows Update. Updating can only be done via the
Intel Network Connections Installer.
l If you are running Microsoft* Windows Server* 2012 R2, you must install
KB2883200.
Failure to do so may result in an Error 1719 and a blue screen.
New Installation on a Windows Server* system

From the Intel downloaded media: Click the FCoE/DCB checkbox to install Intel Ethernet FCoE Protocol
Driver and DCB. The MSI Installer installs all FCoE and DCB components including Base Driver.
Microsoft Hotfixes
The following Microsoft hotfixes have been found to be needed for specific use cases:
Windows 2008 R2
l KB983554 - High-performance storage devices fix
l KB2708811 - Data corruption occurs under random write stress
Multipath I/O (MPIO)
Windows 2008 R2
l KB979743 - MPIO - write errors
l KB981379 - MS DSM - target issues
Windows 2008 R2 SP1
l KB2406705
Configuring MPIO Timers: <http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ee619749(WS.10).aspx>
contains additional information about these registry settings.
Set the PathRecoveryInterval value to 60

Intel Ethernet FCoE Configuration Using Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager

Many FCoE functions can also be configured or revised using Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager,
accessed from the FCoE Properties button within the Data Center tab. You can use Intel PROSet to
perform the following tasks:
l Configure FCoE initiator specific settings
l Go to the corresponding port driver
l Review FCoE initiator information
l Obtain general information
l Review statistics
l Obtain information about the initiator
l Obtain information about attached devices
l FIP discovered VLANs and status
In addition, you can find some FCoE RSS performance settings under the Performance Options of the
Advanced tab of the Network Adapter device properties. For additional information see Receive Side Scaling.
 NOTES:
l From the Boot Options tab, the user will see the Flash Information button. Clicking on the
Flash Information button will open the Flash Information dialog. From the Flash Inform-
ation dialog, clicking on the Update Flash button allows Intel iSCSI Remote Boot, Intel
Boot Agent (IBA), Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot, EFI, and CLP to be written. The update oper-
ation writes a new image to the adapter's Flash and modifies the EEPROM, which may tem-
porarily disable the operation of the Windows* network device driver. You might need to
reboot the computer following this operation.
l You cannot update the flash image of a LOM; this button will be disabled.

1. Create a disk target (LUN) on an available Fibre Channel target. Configure this LUN to be accessible to
the WWPN address of the initiator of the host being booted.
2. Make sure the client system starts the Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot firmware. The firmware should be
configured properly, be able to connect to Fibre Channel target, and detect the boot disk.

Intel PROSet for Windows* Device Manager

Many of the functions of the Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot Port Selection Setup Menu can also be configured or
revised using Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager.
l Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot version is displayed on the Boot Options tab if the combo image supports
FCoE Boot.
l Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot is an Active Image option if FCoE Boot is supported by the combo image.
l The Active Image setting enables/disables Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot in the EEPROM.
l Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot settings are displayed if FCoE Boot is the active image.

Installing Windows Server from a Remote Disk ("Diskless Install")

After the Option ROM is installed, if you wish to install the Windows Server operating system directly to the
FCoE disk, do the following:
1. Locate the FCoE drivers in \APPS\FCOEBOOT\Winx64\Setup. Extract all zipped files and copy to a
CD/DVD or USB media.
2. Boot the install media.
3. Perform a Custom install and proceed to the "Where do you want to install Windows?" screen.
4. Use Load Driver to load the FCoE drivers. Browse to the location you chose previously and load the
following two drivers in the specified order:
1. Intel(R) Ethernet Setup Driver for FCoE.
2. Intel(R) Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE.
Note: the FCoE drivers will block any other network traffic from the FCoE-supported ports until after
Step 7 in this section. Do not attempt to install an NDIS miniport for any FCoE-supported ports prior to
Step 7 in this section.
5. You should now see the FCoE disk or disks appear in the list of available install targets. All disks
accessible by this initiator through the boot port should appear.
6. Select the FCoE disk configured for boot in the Option ROM and continue the install until Windows is
installed and you are at the desktop.
 7. Follow the instructions for a New Installation on a Windows Server* system. This will install the net-
working drivers and configure the FCoE drivers to work with the networking drivers. Note that you can-
not deselect the FCoE feature. You will be prompted to reboot at the end of the installation process.
8. Windows may prompt you to reboot once again after it returns to the desktop.

Installing Windows Server with Local Disk

After the Option ROM is installed, if you wish to install Windows Server with local disk, do the following:
1. Follow the instructions for a New Installation on a Windows Server* system.
2. Verify that the FCoE Boot disk is available in the Fabric View tab of Intel PROSet for Windows
Device Manager, and verify that you are online using Windows Disk Manager.
3. Open a command prompt, run the fcoeprep.bat batch file. To find the batch file, navigate to the
\APPS\FCOEBOOT\Winx64\Setup directory.
4. Shut Windows down and capture the OS image to a local disk partition.
5. Transfer the image from the local hard drive to the FCoE target. This may be done from within the local
Windows installation.
6. For Windows 2008 R2 SP1 only: Run bcdboot.exe from the local Windows installation to make the
FCoE disk bootable.
l If a System Reserved partition exists on the FCoE disk, type: bcdboot F:\Windows /s
E:
where E: is the FCoE System Reserved partition and F: is the FCoE partition with the Win-
dows directory.
l If a System Reserved partition does not exist, type: bcdboot E:\Windows /s E:
where E: is the FCoE partition with the Windows directory.
7. Shut down and remove the local disk.
8. Configure the system BIOS to boot from the FCoE disk and boot.

NOTE: See Microsoft's documentation for more detailed instructions.

Upgrading Windows Drivers on an Intel Ethernet FCoE-Booted System

Upgrading an FCoE-booted system can only be done via the Intel Network Connections Installer. A reboot
is required to complete the upgrade. You cannot upgrade a port's Windows driver and software package if the
port is in the path to the virtual memory paging file and is also part of a Microsoft Server 2012 NIC Team
(LBFO Team). To complete the upgrade, remove the port from the LBFO team and restart the upgrade.

Validation and Storage Certification

The software components for Intel Ethernet FCoE are comprised of two major components: the Intel
Ethernet base driver and the Intel Ethernet FCoE Driver. They are developed and validated as an ordered
pair. You are strongly encouraged to avoid scenarios, either through upgrades or Windows update, where the
Intel Ethernet driver version is not the version released with the corresponding Intel Ethernet FCoE driver.
For more information, visit the download center.
 NOTES:
l Individually upgrading/downgrading the Intel Ethernet FCoE driver will not work and may
even cause a blue screen; the entire FCoE package must be the same version. Upgrade the
entire FCoE package using the Intel Network Connections installer only.
l If you uninstalled the Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE component,
just find the same version that you uninstalled and re-install it; or uninstall and then re-install
the entire FCoE package.

Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot Option ROM Setup

FCoE Port Selection Menu

To configure Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot, switch on or reset the system and press Ctrl-D when the message
"Press <Ctrl-D> to run setup..." is displayed. After pressing Ctrl-D, you will be taken to the Intel
Ethernet FCoE Boot Port Selection Setup Menu.

The first screen of the Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot Setup Menu displays a list of Intel FCoE Boot-capable
adapters. For each adapter port, the associated SAN MAC address, PCI device ID, PCI bus/device/function
location, and a field indicating FCoE Boot status is displayed. Up to 10 FCoE Boot-capable ports can be
displayed within the Port Selection Menu. If there are more Intel FCoE Boot-capable adapters, these are not
listed in the setup menu.
Highlight the desired port and press Enter.
FCoE Boot Targets Configuration Menu

FCoE Boot Targets Configuration: Discover Targets is highlighted by default. If the Discover VLAN
value displayed is not what you want, enter the correct value. Highlight Discover Targets and then press
Enter to show targets associated with the Discover VLAN value. Under Target WWPN, if you know the
desired WWPN you can manually enter it or press Enter to display a list of previously discovered targets.
FCoE Target Selection Menu
Highlight the desired Target from the list and press Enter.

Manually fill in the LUN and Boot Order values.

Boot Order valid values are 0-4, where 0 means no boot order or ignore the target. A 0 value
also indicates that this port should not be used to connect to the target. Boot order values of 1-4
can only be assigned once to target(s) across all FCoE boot-enabled ports.
VLAN value is 0 by default. You may do a Discover Targets which will display a VLAN. If the
VLAN displayed is not the one you require, enter the VLAN manually and then perform
Discover Targets on that VLAN.

Hit Save.

NOTE: After the Discover Targets function is executed, the Option ROM will attempt to remain
logged into the fabric until the FCoE Boot Targets Configuration Menu is exited.

l Keyboard Shortcuts: Up/Down, TAB and SHIFT-TAB to move between the controls.
Left/Right/Home/End/Del/Backspace in the edit boxes.
l Press the Esc key to leave the screen.

UEFI Setup for Intel FCoE Boot

Once you complete the configuration, it will be stored in the system's firmware memory.
Before beginning the configuration, update the adapter's UEFI FCoE Option ROM using the BootUtil tool and
the latest BootIMG.FLB file. Use the following command:
BOOTUTIL64E.EFI -up=efi+efcoe -nic=PORT -quiet

where PORT is the NIC adapter number (in the following example nic=1)

NOTE: The UEFI FCoE driver must be loaded before you perform the following steps.

Accessing the FCoEConfiguration Screen

Boot the system into its BIOSand proceed as follows:

1. Select the Advanced tab, then choose PCIConfiguration, then UEFIOption ROM Control, then
FCOEConfiguration.
2. The following screen is displayed:

Adding an FCoEAttempt

An FCoE Attempt is a configured instance of a target from which the system will attempt to boot over FCoE.
1. From the FCoEConfiguration menu, select Add an Attempt. All supported ports are displayed.
2. Select the desired port. The FCoE Boot Targets Configuration screen is displayed.

3. Select Discover Targets to automatically discover available targets (alternatively, you can manually
enter the fields on the FCoE Boot Targets Configuration screen). The Select from Discovered Tar-
gets option displays a list of previously discovered targets.
4. Select Auto-Discovery. Note that the auto-discovery process may take several minutes. When auto-
discovery is complete, the Select Target screen is displayed. Discover VLAN is the VLANassociated
with a discovered adapter. There can be more than one target on a given VLAN.
5. Select the desired target from the list. The FCoEBoot Targets Configuration screen is displayed with
completed fields for the selected target.
6. Press F10 (Save)to add this FCoEattempt. The FCoE Configuration screen is displayed with the
newly added FCoEattempt listed.
Deleting an Existing FCoEAttempt

1. From the FCoEConfiguration menu, select Delete Attempts.

2. Select one or more attempts to delete, as shown below (note that the example now shows three added
attempts).

3. To delete the selected attempts, choose Commit Changes and Exit. To exit this screen without
deleted the selected attempts, choose Discard Changes and Exit.
Changing the Order of FCoEAttempts

1. From the FCoEConfiguration menu, select Change Attempt Order.

2. Press the Enter key to display the Change Attempt Order dialog, shown below.

3. Use the arrow keys to change the attempt order. When satisfied, press the Enter key to exit the dialog.
The new attempt order is displayed.
4. To save the new attempt order, select Commit Changes and Exit. To exit without saving changes,
select Discard Changes and Exit.

FCoE Boot Target Configuration

For specific information on configuring your FCoE target system and disk volume, refer to instructions
provided by your system or operating system vendor. Listed below are the basic steps necessary to setup
Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot to work with most FCoE targets. The specific steps will vary from one vendor to
another.

NOTE: If your FCoE Boot target is on a VLAN other than VLAN #1, then you must use the POST
Boot Menu (Ctrl-D) to discover the target.

Installing Microsoft Windows Server from a Remote Disk ("Diskless Install")

After the Option ROM is installed, if you wish to install the Windows Server operating system directly to the
FCoE disk, do the following:
1. Locate the FCoE drivers in \APPS\FCOEBOOT\Winx64\Setup. Extract all zipped files and copy to a
CD/DVD or USB media.
2. Boot the install media.
3. Perform a Custom install and proceed to the "Where do you want to install Windows?" screen.
 4. Use Load Driver to load the FCoE drivers. Browse to the location you chose previously and load the
following two drivers in the specified order:
1. Intel(R) Ethernet Setup Driver for FCoE.
2. Intel(R) Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE.
Note: the FCoE drivers will block any other network traffic from the FCoE-supported ports until after
Step 7. Do not attempt to install an NDIS miniport for any FCoE-supported ports until after Step 7.
5. You should now see the FCoE disk or disks appear in the list of available install targets. All disks
accessible by this initiator through the boot port should appear.
6. Select the FCoE disk configured for boot in the Option ROM and continue the install until Windows is
installed and you are at the desktop.
7. Follow the instructions for a new Windows Server installation. This will install the networking drivers
and configure the FCoE drivers to work with the networking drivers. Note that you cannot deselect the
FCoE feature. You will be prompted to reboot at the end of the installation process.
8. Windows may prompt you to reboot once again after it returns to the desktop.

Installing Windows Server with Local Disk

After the Option ROM is installed, if you wish to install Windows Server with local disk, do the following:
1. Follow the instructions for a new Windows Server installation.
2. Verify that the FCoE Boot disk is available in the Fabric View tab of Intel PROSet for Windows
Device Manager, and verify that you are online using Windows Disk Manager.
3. Open a command prompt, run the fcoeprep.bat batch file. To find the batch file, navigate to your archi-
tecture's directory within the \APPS\FCOEBOOT\Winx64\Setup directory.
4. Shut Windows down and capture the OS image to a local disk partition.
5. Transfer the image from the local hard drive to the FCoE target. This may be done from within the local
Windows installation.
6. For Windows 2008 R2 SP1 only: Run bcdboot.exe from the local Windows installation to make the
FCoE disk bootable.
l If a System Reserved partition exists on the FCoE disk, type: bcdboot F:\Windows /s
E:
where E: is the FCoE System Reserved partition and F: is the FCoE partition with the Win-
dows directory.
l If a System Reserved partition does not exist, type: bcdboot E:\Windows /s E:
where E: is the FCoE partition with the Windows directory.
7. Shut down and remove the local disk.
8. Configure the system BIOS to boot from the FCoE disk and boot.

NOTE: See Microsoft's documentation for more detailed instructions.

SUSE* Linux Enterprise Server

For the easiest experience installing Linux onto an FCoE target, you should use SLES11 or greater. SLES11
provides native support for FCoE Booting and installing. This means that there are no additional steps outside
of the installer that are necessary to install to an iSCSI target using an Intel Ethernet Server Adapter. Please
refer to the SLES11 documentation for instructions on how to install to an iSCSI LUN.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
For the easiest experience installing Linux onto an iSCSI target, you should use RHEL 6 or greater. RHEL 6
provides native support for iSCSI Booting and installing. This means that there are no additional steps outside
of the installer that are necessary to install to an iSCSI target using an Intel Ethernet Server Adapter. Please
refer to the RHEL 6 documentation for instructions on how to install to an iSCSI LUN.

FCoE Known Issues

Intel Ethernet FCoE Windows Issues
Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE may disappear from Device Manager

The Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE may disappear from the Device Manager after
either:
l A virtual network is removed.
l The underlying Intel NIC adapter settings are modified.
This can occur when the corresponding Intel adapter is virtualized to create a new virtual network or delete or
modify an existing Virtual Network. It can also happen when the underlying Intel NIC adapter settings are
modified, including disabling or re-enabling the adapter.
As a workaround, remove all the resource dependencies of the Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver
for FCoE that are currently being used by the system before making any changes to the Intel adapter for
virtualization. For example, in one use case scenario, the user may have assigned the FCoE disk(s) from the
FCoE storage driver to run one of its Virtual Machines, and at the same time the user wants to alter the
configuration of the same Intel adapter for virtualization. In this scenario the user must remove the FCoE
disks(s) from the Virtual Machine before altering the Intel adapter configuration.
Virtual Port may disappear from Virtual Machine

When the Virtual Machine starts, it asks the Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE ("the
driver") to create a Virtual Port. If the driver is subsequently disabled, the Virtual Port may disappear. The only
way to get the Virtual Port back is to enable the driver and reboot the Virtual Machine.
When installing FCoE after installing ANS and creating AFT Team, Storports are not installed

If the user installs ANS and creates an AFT team and then installs FCoE/DCB, the result is that DCB is off by
default. If the user then enables DCB on one port, the OS detects Storports and the user must manually click
on the new hardware wizard prompts for each of them to install. If the user does not do that, DCB status is
non-operational and the reason given is no peer.
Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager (DMiX) is not synched with FCoE CTRL-D Utility

When the user disables FCoE via the Control-D menu, the Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager User
Interface states that the flash contains an FCoE image, but that the flash needs to be updated. Updating the
flash with the FCoE image again, re-enables FCoE and returns the user to the state where all the FCoE
settings are available.
If the user uses the control-D menu to disable FCoE, then they should use the control-D menu to enable it
because Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager does not support enabling or disabling FCoE.
82599 and X540-based adapters don't display as SPC-3 compliant in Windows MPIO configuration

Because the FCoE initiator is a virtualized device it does not have its own unique hardware ID and thus is not
displayed as a SPC-3 compliant device in Windows MPIO configuration.
When removing ALB teaming, all FCOE functions fail, all DMIX tabs are grayed out, and both adapter ports fail

For ANS teaming to work with Microsoft Network Load Balancer (NLB) in unicast mode, the team's LAA must
be set to cluster node IP. For ALB mode, Receive Load Balancing must be disabled. For further configuration
details, refer to http://support.microsoft.com/?id=278431
ANS teaming will work when NLB is in multicast mode, as well. For proper configuration of the adapter in this
mode, refer to http://technet.microsoft.com/en-ca/library/cc726473(WS.10).aspx
FCoE and TCP/IP traffic on the same VLAN may not work on some switches

This is a known switch design and configuration issue.

Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot Issues

Option ROM Known Issues

Discovery problems with multiple FCoE VLANs

The FCoE Option ROM may not discover the desired VLAN when performing VLAN discovery from the
Discover Targets function. If the Discover VLAN box is populated with the wrong VLAN, then enter the
desired VLAN before executing Discover Targets.
Windows Known Issues
Windows uses a paging file on the local disk

After imaging, if the local disk is not removed before booting from the FCoE disk then Windows may use the
paging file from the local disk.
Crash dump to FCoE disks is only supported to the FCoE Boot LUN

The following scenarios are not supported:

l Crash dump to an FCoE disk if the Windows directory is not on the FCoE Boot LUN.
l Use of the DedicatedDumpFile registry value to direct crash dump to another FCoE LUN.
FCoE uninstall from a local disk may be blocked because installer inaccurately reports system is booted from FCoE

When the FCoE Option ROM connects to an FCoE disk during boot, the Windows installer may be unable to
determine if the system was booted from FCoE or not and will block the FCoE uninstall. To uninstall,
configure the Option ROM so that it does not connect to an FCoE disk.
Unable to create VLAN interfaces with Intel Ethernet FCoE Boot enabled

When booted with FCoE, a user cannot create VLANs and/or Teams for other traffic types. This prevents
converged functionality for non-FCoE traffic.
Server adapter configured for FCoE Boot available as External-Shared vnic via Hyper-V

If a port is set as a boot port, when the user installs the Hyper V role in the system and then goes into the
Hyper V Network Manager to select which port to externally virtualize, the boot port displays, which it should
not.
When setting the port to a boot port in Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager, a message shows that the
user should restart the system for the changes to be effective but does not force a restart. As a result the user
level applications are in boot mode (i.e., Data Center Tab is grayed out) but kernel level drivers havent been
restarted to indicate to the OS that the port is a boot port. When the user then adds the Hyper V service to the
system, the OS takes a snap shot of the ports available and this is the snap shot that it uses after the Hyper V
role is added, system restarted and the user goes into the Hyper V Virtual Network Manager to virtualize the
ports. As a result, the boot port also shows up.
 Solutions:
Restart the system after setting a port to a boot port and before adding the Hyper V role. The port does not
appear in the list of virtualizable ports in the Hyper V Virtual network manager.
Disable/enable the port in Device Manager after setting it to boot and before adding the Hyper V role. The port
does not appear in the list of virtualizable ports in the Hyper V Virtual network manager.
FCoE Linkdown Timeout fails prematurely when Remote Booted

If an FCoE-booted port loses link for longer than the time specified in the Linkdown Timeout advanced
setting in the Intel Ethernet Virtual Storage Miniport Driver for FCoE, the system will crash. Linkdown
Timeout values greater than 30 seconds may not provide extra time before a system crash.
Windows fails to boot properly after using the image install method

The following situation may arise when installing Windows for FCoE Boot using the imaging method:
Windows boots successfully from the FCoE LUN when the local drive is installed, but when the local drive is
removed, Windows seems to boot, but fails before reaching the desktop.
In this case it is likely that the Windows installation resides on both the FCoE LUN and local drive. This can
be verified by booting from the FCoE LUN with the local drive installed, then comparing the drive letter in the
path of files on the desktop with the drive letter for the boot partition in Windows' Disk Management tool. If the
drive letters are different, then the Windows installation is split between the two disks.
If this situation is occurring, please ensure that fcoeprep is run prior to capturing the image, and that the
system is not allowed to local boot between running fcoeprep and capturing the image. In addition, the local
drive could be removed from the system prior to the first boot from the FCoE LUN.
Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Solutions
There are many simple, easy-to-fix problems related to network problems. Review each one of these before
going further.
l Check for recent changes to hardware, software, or the network that may have disrupted com-
munications.
l Check the driver software.
l Make sure you are using the latest appropriate drivers for your adapter from the Intel support
website.
l Disable (or unload), then re-enable (reload) the driver or adapter.
l Check for conflicting settings. Disable advanced settings such as teaming or VLANs to see if it
corrects the problem.
l Re-install the drivers.
l Check the cable. Use the best available cabling for the intended data rate.
l Check that the cable is securely attached at both points.
l Make sure the cable length does not exceed specifications.
l For copper connections, make sure the cable is a 4-pair Category 5 for 1000BASE-T or
100BASE-TX or a 4-pair Category 6 for 10GBASE-T.
l Perform a cable test.
l Replace the cable.
l Check the link partner (switch, hub, etc.).
l Make sure the link partner is active and can send and receive traffic.
l Make sure the adapter and link partner settings match one another, or are set to auto-negotiate.
l Make sure the port is enabled.
l Re-connect to another available port or another link partner.
l Look for adapter hardware problems.
l Re-seat the adapter.
l Insert the adapter in another slot.
l Check for conflicting or incompatible hardware devices and settings.
l Replace the adapter.
l Check the Intel support website for possible documented issues.
l Select your adapter from the adapter family list.
l Check the Frequently Asked questions section.
l Check the Knowledge Base.
l Check your process monitor and other system monitors.
l Check to see that there is sufficient processor and memory capacity to perform networking
activity.
l Look for any unusual activity (or lack of activity).
l Use network testing programs to check for basic connectivity.
 l Check your BIOS version and settings.
l Use the latest appropriate BIOS for your computer.
l Make sure the settings are appropriate for your computer.
The following troubleshooting table assumes that you have already reviewed the common problems and
solutions.

Problem Solution

Your computer cannot find the adapter Make sure your adapter slots are compatible for the type of
adapter you are using:
l PCI Express v1.0 (or newer)
l PCI-X v2.0
l PCI slots are v2.2

Diagnostics pass but the connection Make sure the cable is securely attached, is the proper type
fails and does not exceed the recommended lengths.
Try running the Sender-Responder diagnostic Test.
Make sure the duplex mode and speed setting on the adapter
matches the setting on the switch.

Another adapter stops working after you Make sure your PCI BIOS is current. See PCI / PCI-X / PCI
installed the Intel Network Adapter Express Configuration.
Check for interrupt conflicts and sharing problems. Make sure
the other adapter supports shared interrupts. Also, make sure
your operating system supports shared interrupts.
Unload all PCI device drivers, then reload all drivers.

Adapter unable to connect to switch at This is applicable only to copper-based connections.

correct speed. Gigabit adapter connects
Make sure the adapter and the link partner are set to auto-
at 100 Mbps and 10 gigabit adapter con-
negotiate.
nects at 1000 Mbps.
Verify that you are running the latest operating system
revision for your switch and that the switch is compliant with
the proper IEEE standard:
l IEEE 802.3ad-compliant (gigabit over copper)
l IEEE 802.3an-compliant (10 gigabit over copper)

The device does not connect at the When Gigabit Master/Slave mode is forced to "master" mode
expected speed. on both the Intel adapter and its link partner, the link speed
obtained by the Intel adapter may be lower than expected.

The adapter stops working without Run the adapter and network tests described under "Test the
apparent cause Adapter".

The Link indicator light is off Run the adapter and network tests described under "Test the
Problem Solution

Adapter".
Make sure the proper (and latest) driver is loaded.
Make sure that the link partner is configured to auto-negotiate
(or forced to match adapter)
Verify that the switch is IEEE 802.3ad-compliant.

The link light is on, but communications Make sure the proper (and latest) driver is loaded.
are not properly established
Both the adapter and its link partner must be set to either auto-
detect or manually set to the same speed and duplex settings.

NOTE: The adapter's link indicator light may be on

even if communications between the adapter and its
link partner have not been properly established.
Technically, the link indicator light represents the
presence of a carrier signal but not necessarily the
ability to properly communicate with a link partner.
This is expected behavior and is consistent with
IEEE's specification for physical layer operation.

RX or TX light is off Network may be idle; try creating traffic while monitoring the
lights.

The diagnostic utility reports the adapter The PCI BIOS isn't configuring the adapter correctly. See PCI
is "Not enabled by BIOS" / PCI-X / PCI Express Configuration.

The computer hangs when the drivers Try changing the PCI BIOS interrupt settings. See PCI / PCI-
are loaded X / PCI Express Configuration.

The Fan Fail LED of the 10 Gigabit AT The fan cooling solution is not functioning properly. Contact
Server Adapter is on (red) customer support for further instructions.

PCI / PCI-X / PCI Express Con- If the adapter is not recognized by your OS or if it does not
figuration work you may need to change some BIOS settings. Try the
following only if you are having problems with the adapter and
are familiar with BIOS settings.
l Check to see that the "Plug-and-Play" setting is com-
patible with the operating system you are using.
l Make sure the slot is enabled.
l Install the adapter in a bus-master slot.
l Configure interrupts for level-triggering, as opposed to
edge-triggering.
l Reserve interrupts and/or memory addresses. This pre-
vents multiple buses or bus slots from using the same
interrupts. Check the BIOS for IRQ options for PCI /
 Problem Solution

PCI-X / PCIe.

Multiple Adapters
When configuring a multi-adapter environment, you must upgrade all Intel adapters in the computer to the
latest software.
If the computer has trouble detecting all adapters, consider the following:
l If you enable Wake on LAN* (WoL) on more than two adapters, the Wake on LAN feature may over-
draw your systems auxiliary power supply, resulting in the inability to boot the system and other unpre-
dictable problems. For multiple desktop/management adapters, it is recommended that you install one
adapter at a time and use the IBAUtil utility (ibautil.exe in \APPS\BOOTAGNT) to disable the WoL fea-
ture on adapters that do not require WoL capabilities. On server adapters, the WoL feature is disabled
by default.
l Adapters with Intel Boot Agent enabled will require a portion of the limited start up memory for each
adapter enabled. Disable the service on adapters that do not need to boot Pre-Boot Execution Envir-
onment (PXE).

Other Performance Issues

Attaining the best speed requires that many components are operating at peak efficiency. Among them are the
following:
l Cable quality and length - Do not exceed the maximum recommended length for your cable type.
Shorter lengths often provide better results. Check for loose or damaged connectors. Check the cable
for kinked or damaged sections.
l Bus speed and traffic - The PCI bus speed accommodates the slowest PCI card installed. Check to
see if you have a card that is slowing down your system.
l Processor and Memory - Check your performance monitoring programs to see if traffic is being
affected by your processor speed, available memory or other processes.
l Transmission frame size - Your network performance may be enhanced by adjusting or maximizing
the transmission frame size. Operating systems, switches and adapters will impose varying limits on
maximum frame size. See the discussion on Jumbo Frames for your OS.
l Operating System - Networking feature implementation will vary by operating system version, such
as offloading and multiprocessor threading.

Testing the Adapter

Intel's diagnostic software lets you test the adapter to see if there are problems with the adapter hardware, the
cabling, or the network connection.

Testing from Windows

Intel PROSet allows you to run four types of diagnostic tests.
 l Connection Test: Verifies network connectivity by pinging the DHCP server, WINS server, and gate-
way.
l Cable Tests: Provide information about cable properties.

NOTE: The Cable Test is not supported on all adapters. The Cable
Test will only be available on adapters that support it.

l Hardware Tests: Determine if the adapter is functioning properly.

NOTE: Hardware tests will fail if the adapter is configured for iSCSI Boot.

To access these tests, select the adapter in Windows Device Manager, click the Link tab, and click
Diagnostics. A Diagnostics window displays tabs for each type of test. Click the appropriate tab and run the
test.
The availability of these tests is dependent on the adapter and operating system. Tests may be disabled if:
l iSCSI Boot is enabled on the port.
l FCoE Boot is enabled on the port.
l The port is used as a manageability port.
l The tests are being run from a virtual machine.

Testing from Windows PowerShell*

Intel provides two PowerShell cmdlets for testing your adapter.
l Test-IntelNetDiagnostics runs the specified test suite on the specified device. See the Test-
IntelNetDiagnostics help inside PowerShell for more information.
l Test-IntelNetIdentifyAdapter blinks the LED on the specified device.

Linux Diagnostics
The driver utilizes the ethtool interface for driver configuration and diagnostics, as well as displaying statistical
information. ethtool version 1.6 or later is required for this functionality.
The latest release of ethtool can be found at: http://sourceforge.net/projects/gkernel.

NOTE: ethtool 1.6 only supports a limited set of ethtool options. Support for a more complete ethtool
feature set can be enabled by upgrading ethtool to the latest version.

Responder Testing
The Intel adapter can send test messages to another Ethernet adapter on the same network. This testing is
available in DOS via the diags.exe utility downloaded from Customer Support.

DOS Diagnostics
Intel's diagnostic software lets you test the adapter to see if there are any problems with the adapter
hardware, the cabling, or the network connection. You can also use diagnostics to isolate problems during
troubleshooting.
DIAGS.EXE runs under MS-DOS* and later compatible operating systems. It will not run from a Windows*
Command Prompt within any version of the Microsoft Windows operating system or in any other non-MS-
DOS operating system.
This utility is designed to test hardware operation and confirm the adapter's ability to communicate with
another adapter in the same network. It is not a throughput measurement tool.
DIAGS can test the adapter whether or not there is a responder present. In order to do a thorough test,
however, you should set up a second system on the network as a responder prior to starting a test. If there are
hot keys, the letters will be highlighted.

Starting the Test Utility

NOTE: If there is an MS-DOS network driver present, such as NDIS2 or DOS-ODI, the test utility
and the network driver could become unstable. You should reboot and ensure that there are no
network drivers loaded.

1. Boot to MS-DOS.
2. Navigate to the \DOSUtilities\UserDiag directory, then type DIAGS at the prompt and press <Enter>.
The test utility program automatically scans the hardware and lists all Intel-based adapters. They are
listed in this manner:
l If you have only one network connection in your system, this screen will be bypassed.
l If you have a dual-port or quad-port adapter, each port is listed separately starting with Port A,
then Port B, etc. You can find the port information on the bracket label.

3. Select the adapter you want to test by moving the highlight and pressing <Enter>. The test utility pro-
gram displays its main menu.

View Adapter Configuration

Selecting View Adapter Configuration will bring up the adapter configuration screen. This screen describes
various properties of the adapter.
Press <F5> to view additional information on the PCI Express slot occupied by the adapter. This information
is primarily used for troubleshooting by Customer Support.
Press any key to return to Adapter Configuration.

Test Adapter Menu

Selecting Test Adapter from the Main Menu brings up the Test Menu. This menu allows you to select which
tests to perform on the adapter and configure the test options.
Begin Adapter Tests
Selecting this option brings up the test screen. While tests are being performed, a rotating spinner is shown to
indicate the application is still "alive." The results of the tests are displayed as each test is performed. If
multiple test passes are selected, the results contain a count of test failures. A list containing zeros means
that all tests have passed. Single tests will display "Passed" or "Failed" for each pass.
 Change Test Options
The test setup screen allows you to configure and select the specific tests desired. Each option is toggled by
moving the cursor with the arrow keys and pressing <Enter> to change the option. The number of tests is
simply entered from the keyboard in the appropriate box. If there is a gap in the menu, that means the test is
not supported by your adapter. By default, local diagnostics run automatically, while network diagnostics are
disabled.

NOTE: The test program will test attributes that are applicable to your adapter. Only supported tests
are displayed.

Device Registers - Test patterns are written, read, and verified through the adapter's device registers to
ensure proper functionality.
FIFOs - This will write test bit patterns to the adapter's FIFO buffers to make sure the FIFOs are working
properly. Not all adapters have FIFO, so it will not appear in all test lists.
EEPROM - This test tests both the readability of the EEPROM as well as the integrity of the data stored in the
EEPROM. It reads the EEPROM and calculates the checksum. This checksum is then compared to the
checksum stored in the EEPROM. If values are not the same, the test reports failure.
Interrupt - This tests the adapter's ability to generate an interrupt and have it propagated through the system
to the Programmable Interrupt Controller (PIC). The test triggers an interrupt by setting the interrupt cause
register and then verifies that an interrupt has been triggered.
Loopback - There are two internal loopback tests. These tests set the adapter in the appropriate loopback
mode and send packets back through the adapter's receive circuitry and logic. These tests are chipset-
dependent and may not be selectable.
Link - Checks to see if the adapter has link or does not have link.
Network Test - The Network Test looks for a responder, and then sends packets. If no responder is found, the
test reports failure. If packets are received back from the responder, the test reports success.

NOTE: In some instances, the test may fail when it is connected to a switch with Spanning Tree
Protocol enabled.

Networking Menu

The networking menu contains network-specific tests, such as Spanning Tree detection and Network test
responder.
Set Up as Responder
This allows the user to set up the adapter as a responder so a connected system can perform the network test
portion of the diagnostics tests. Although you can use a variety of adapters as the responder and connect
directly or through a switch, the best results are obtained with a cross-over cable and a same-type adapter.
When you press <Esc>, the responder operation is canceled and control is immediately returned to the
Networking menu.
Detect Spanning Tree
Spanning trees can be troublesome in a networking configuration. The Detect Spanning Tree option attempts
to detect if a spanning tree exists on the network. This is done by resetting the link and listening for spanning
tree packets.
Indicator Lights
The Intel Server and Desktop network adapters feature indicator lights on the adapter backplate that serve to
indicate activity and the status of the adapter board. The following tables define the meaning for the possible
states of the indicator lights for each adapter board.

Dual Port QSFP+ Adapters

The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter XL710-Q2 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 40 Gb

Yellow Linked at 1/10 Gb

ACT/LNK
Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

Off No link.
The Intel Ethernet 40G 2P XL710 QSFP+ rNDC has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

LNK (green/yellow) Green on Operating at maximum port speed.

Yellow on Operating at lower port speed.

Off No link.

ACT (green) Green flashing Data activity.

Off No activity.

Single Port QSFP+ Adapters

The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter XL710-Q1 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 40 Gb

Yellow Linked at 1/10 Gb

ACT/LNK
Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

Off No link.
The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X520-Q1 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb

Yellow Linked at 1 Gb

ACT/LNK
Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

Off No link.

Dual Port SFP/SFP+ Adapters

The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-2 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb

LNK

Yellow Linked at 1 Gb

Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

ACT

Off No link.
The Intel 10 Gigabit AF DA Dual Port Server Adapter and Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520
series of adapters have the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Off Not linked to the LAN.

GRN 10G
(A or B): Green
On Linked to the LAN.

Off No link.
ACT/LNK
(A or B): Green
Blinking On/Off Actively transmitting or receiving data.

Quad Port SFP/SFP+ Adapters

The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-4 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb

LNK

Yellow Linked at 1 Gb

Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

ACT

Off No link.
The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X520-4 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb

Yellow Linked at 1 Gb

ACT/L NK
Blinking On/OFF Actively transmitting or receiving data

Off No link.
Dual Port Copper Adapters
The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550-T2 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb.

Link Yellow Linked at 1 Gb.

Off Linked at 100 Mbps.

Off No link.

Activity

Blinking On/Off Actively transmitting or receiving data.

The Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-T2 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Off No link.

Link Yellow Linked at 1 Gb.

Green Linked at 10 Gb.

Off No link.

Activity

Blinking On/Off Actively transmitting or receiving data.

The Intel 10 Gigabit CX4 Dual Port Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Adapter is actively passing traffic.

A or
Blinking Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel PROSet to control
B
blinking. See Intel PROSet Help for more information.

Off No link.
The Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T2, I340-T2, PRO/1000 P, PT Dual Port, and Gigabit ET Dual
Port Server Adapters have the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
ACT/LNK Data activity
flashing

Off No link.

Off 10 Mbps

Green 100 Mbps

10/100/
1000 Yellow 1000 Mbps

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

Orange
PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
flashing
for more information.

The Intel PRO/1000 MT and GT Dual Port Server Adapters have the following indicator lights for each
port:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The port is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
flashing
ACT/LNK
Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in

Yellow
Intel PROSet to control blinking. See Intel
flashing
PROSet Help for more information.

Off 10 Mbps
10=OFF
100=GRN Green 100 Mbps
1000=ORG
Orange 1000 Mbps
The PRO/100+ Dual Port Server adapter (with three LEDs per port) has the following indicator lights:

Indication Meaning
Label

LNK On The adapter and switch are receiving power; the

cable connection between the switch and adapter is
good.

Off The adapter and switch are not receiving power; the
cable connection between the switch and adapter is
faulty; or you have a driver configuration problem.

ACT On or flash- The adapter is sending or receiving network data. The

ing frequency of the flashes varies with the amount of net-
work traffic.

Off The adapter is not sending or receiving network data.

100 On Operating at 100 Mbps.

Off Operating at 10 Mbps.

The Intel PRO/100 S Dual Port Server adapter (with 64 bit PCI Connector) has the following indicator
lights:

Label Indication Meaning

ACT/LNK On The adapter and switch are receiving power; the

cable connection between the switch and adapter is
good.
NOTE: if only one port appears to be operating, go
into the Network controlpanel(Windows) or a
configuration file for other operating system, and
check the status of the second port.

Off The adapter and switch are not receiving power, or

you have a driver configuration problem.

Flashing The adapter is sending or receiving network data.

The frequency of the flashes varies with the amount
of network traffic.

100TX On Operating at 100 Mbps.

Off Operating at 10 Mbps.

Single Port Copper Adapters
The IntelEthernet Converged Network Adapter X550-T1 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green Linked at 10 Gb.

Link Yellow Linked at 1 Gb.

Off Linked at 100 Mbps.

Off No link.

Activity

Blinking On/Off Actively transmitting or receiving data.

The IntelEthernet Converged Network Adapter X540-T1 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Off No link.

Link Green Linked at 10 Gb

Yellow Linked at 1 Gb

Off No link.

Activity

Blinking On/Off Actively transmitting or receiving data.

The Intel 10 Gigabit AT Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
blinking

ACT/LNK Off No link

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

Green PROSet or the BLINK command in IBAUtil to control
blinking blinking. See Intel PROSet Help for more inform-
ation.

Off No link

1Gig/10Gig Green 10 Gbps

Yellow 1 Gbps

Over temperature event occurred. The adapter will

FAN FAIL Red
be shut down to avoid damage.
The Intel PRO/1000 PT Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
ACT/LNK Data activity
flashing

Off No link.

Off 10 Mbps

Green 100 Mbps

10=OFF
100=GRN Orange 1000 Mbps
1000=ORG
Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel
Orange
PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
flashing
for more information.

The Intel PRO/1000 MT Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
flashing
ACT/LNK
Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in

Yellow
Intel PROSet to control blinking. See Intel
flashing
PROSet Help for more information.

Off 10 Mbps
10=OFF
100=GRN Green 100 Mbps
1000=ORG
Orange 1000 Mbps
The Intel Gigabit CT2, Gigabit CT, PRO/1000 T, and PRO/1000 MT Desktop Adapters have the fol-
lowing indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
flashing
ACT/LNK
Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in

Yellow
Intel PROSet to control blinking. See Intel
flashing
PROSet Help for more information.

Off 10 Mbps
10/100/
Green 100 Mbps
1000
Yellow 1000 Mbps

The Intel PRO/1000 XT Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
flashing
ACT/LNK
Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

Yellow
PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet
flashing
Help for more information.

Off 10 Mbps
10/100/
Green 100 Mbps
1000
Yellow 1000 Mbps
The Intel PRO/1000 T Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in

not labeled Flashing Intel PROSet to control blinking. See Intel
PROSet Help for more information.

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

LNK
Off No link.

On Data is being transmitted or received.

ACT
Off No data activity.

Off 10 Mbps

10/100/1000 Green 100 Mbps

Yellow 1000 Mbps

The Intel PRO/100+, PRO/100 M, PRO/100 S , and PRO/100 VE and VM Desktop adapters and Net-
work Connections have the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

ACT/LNK On The adapter and switch are receiving

power; the cable connection between the
switch and adapter is good.

Off The adapter and switch are not receiving

power, or you have a driver configuration
problem.

Flashing The adapter is sending or receiving net-

work data. The frequency of the flashes
varies with the amount of network traffic.

100TX On Operating at 100 Mbps.

Off Operating at 10 Mbps.

Quad Port Copper Adapters
The Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-T4 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

ACT Green flashing Data activity

Off No link.

Green 10 Gbps

LNK Yellow 1 Gbps

Off 100 Mbps

The Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T4, I340-T4, Gigabit ET and PRO/1000 PT Quad Port LP
Server Adapters have the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
ACT/LNK Data activity
flashing

Off No link.

Off 10 Mbps

Green 100 Mbps

10/100/
1000 Yellow 1000 Mbps

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

Orange
PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
flashing
for more information.

The Intel PRO/1000 MT, GT and PT Quad Port Server Adapters have the following indicator lights for
each port:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The port is connected to a valid link partner.

Green
Data activity
flashing
Top LED
ACT/LNK Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

Orange
PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help for
flashing
more information.

Bottom Off 10 Mbps

LED
Green 100 Mbps
10/100/
1000 Orange 1000 Mbps
Dual Port Fiber Adapters
The Intel 10 Gigabit XF SR Dual Port Server Adapters has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Adapter is actively passing traffic.

ACT/LNK Blinking Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
for more information.

Off No link.

The Intel PRO/1000 MF, PF, and Gigabit EF Dual Port Server Adapters have the following indicator
lights for each port:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Adapter is actively passing traffic.

ACT/LNK Blinking Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet
Help for more information.

Off No link.
Single Port Fiber Adapters
The Intel 10 Gigabit XF SR and LR Server Adapters has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Adapter is actively passing traffic.

ACT/LNK Blinking Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
for more information.

Off No link.

The Intel PRO/1000 MF and PF Server Adapters have the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

Adapter is actively passing traffic.

ACT/LNK Blinking Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet
Help for more information.

Off No link.
The Intel PRO/1000 XF Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

On The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

LNK
Off No link.

On Data is being transmitted or received.

ACT
Off No data activity.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

not
Flashing PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
labeled
for more information.

The Intel PRO/1000F Server adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

TX On The adapter is sending data.

RX On The adapter is receiving data.

The adapter is connected to a valid link partner and

On
is receiving link pulses.
LNK

Off No link.

Identity. Use the "Identify Adapter" button in Intel

not
Flashing PROSet to control blinking. See Intel PROSet Help
labeled
for more information.
Quad Port Fiber Adapters
The Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-F4 has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

The adapter is connected to a valid link part-

Green on
ner.

GRN=1G Green flash-

Data activity
ing

Off No link.
The Intel PRO/1000 PF Quad Port Server Adapter has the following indicator lights:

Label Indication Meaning

Green on The adapter is connected to a valid link partner.

ACT/LNK Green flashing Data activity

Off No link.
Known Issues
NOTE: iSCSI Known Issues and FCoE Known Issues are located in their own sections of this
manual.

Lost Data Packets caused by Frequent LLDP Packets on an Inactive Port

When ports are teamed or bonded together in an active/passive configuration (for example, in a switch fault
tolerance team, or a mode 1 bond), the inactive port may send out frequent LLDP packets, which results in
lost data packets. This may occur with Intel ANS teaming on Microsoft Windows operating systems or with
channel bonding on Linux systems. To resolve the issue, set one of the ports to be the Primary port.

Code 10 yellow bang errors on a Virtual Machine in Windows Device Manager

On a system running Microsoft Windows Server 2016, inside a Virtual Machine running Microsoft Windows
Server 2016 or Windows Server 2012 R2, Intel Ethernet connections may have a code 10 yellow bang in
Windows Device Manager. Installing a cumulative updated that contains Microsoft KB3192366 and
KB3176936 will resolve the issue.

Dropped Receive Packets on Half-Duplex 10/100 Networks

If you have an Intel PCI Express adapter installed, running at 10 or 100 Mbps, half-duplex, with TCP Segment
Offload (TSO) enabled, you may observe occasional dropped receive packets. To work around this problem,
disable TSO or update the network to operate in full-duplex or 1 Gbps.

Throughput Reduction After Hot-Replace

If an Intel gigabit adapter is under extreme stress and is hot-swapped, throughput may significantly drop. This
may be due to the PCI property configuration by the Hot-Plug software. If this occurs, throughput can be
restored by restarting the system.

CPU Utilization Higher Than Expected

Setting RSS Queues to a value greater than 4 is only advisable for large servers with several processors.
Values greater than 4 may increase CPU utilization to unacceptable levels and have other negative impacts
on system performance.

Supported SFP or SFP+ Module Not Recognized by the System

If you try to install an unsupported module, the port may no longer install any subsequent modules, regardless
of whether the module is supported or not. The port will show a yellow bang under Windows Device Manager
and an event id 49 (unsupported module) will be added to the system log when this issue occurs. To resolve
this issue, the system must be completely powered off.

Missing virtual function ports in VMWare ESX

If you enable NPar and SR-IOV on the same device, the number of virtual functions enabled and displayed in
lspci may be 8 or less. ESX limits the number of virtual functions to 8 per device. Also, due to ESXi
limitations, the number of virtual functions created may be less than the number requested. See the ESXi
documentation for details.
http://pubs.vmware.com/
Windows Known Issues
Intermittent Link Loss and Degraded Performance at High Stress Can Occur on Windows Server
2012 Systems
In a Windows Server 2012-based system with multi-core processors, possible intermittent link loss and
degraded performance at high stress may occur due to incorrect RSS processor assignments. More
information and a Microsoft hotfix are available at: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2846837.
Virtual machine loses link on a Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 system
On a Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 system with VMQ enabled, if you change the BaseRssProcessor
setting, then install Microsoft Hyper-V and create one or more virtual machines, the virtual machines may lose
link. Installing the April 2014 update rollup for Windows RT 8.1, Windows 8.1, and Windows Server 2012 R2
(2919355) and hotfix 3031598 will resolve the issue. See http://support2.microsoft.com/kb/2919355 and
http://support2.microsoft.com/kb/3031598 for details.
DCB QoS and Priority Flow Control do not act as expected
If you use Microsofts Data Center Bridging (DCB) implementation configure Quality of Service (QoS) and
Priority Flow Control (PFC), the actual traffic flow segregation per traffic class may not match your
configuration and PFC may not pause traffic as expected. If you mapped more than one priority to a Traffic
Class, enabling only one of the priorities and disabling the others will work around the issue. Installing Intels
DCB implementation will also resolve this issue. This issue affects Microsoft Windows Server 2012 and
Server 2012 R2.
Link loss after changing the Jumbo Frames setting
Inside a guest partition on a Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 Hyper-V virtual machine, if you change the
jumbo frame Advanced setting on an Intel X540 based Ethernet Device or associated Hyper-V NetAdapter,
you may lose link. Changing any other Advanced Setting will resolve the issue.
Virtual Machine Queues are not allocated until reboot
On a Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 system with Intel Ethernet Gigabit Server adapters installed, if you
install Hyper-V and create a VM switch, Virtual Machine Queues (VMQ) are not allocated until you reboot the
system. Virtual machines can send and receive traffic on the default queue, but no VMQs will be used until
after a system reboot.
Application Error Event IDs 789, 790, and 791 in the Event Log
If Data Center Bridging (DCB) is enabled, and the enabled port loses link, the following three events may be
logged in the event log:
l Event ID 789: Enhanced Transmission Selection feature on a device has changed to non-operational
l Event ID 790: Priority Flow Control feature on a device has changed to non-operational
l Event ID 791: Application feature on a device has changed to non-operational (FCoE)
This is the expected behavior when a DCB enabled port loses link. DCB will begin working again as soon as
link is reestablished. A port will lose link if the cable is disconnected, the driver or software package is
updated, if the link partner goes down, or for other reasons.
"Malicious script detected" Warning from Norton AntiVirus During PROSet Uninstall
The Intel PROSet uninstall process uses a Visual Basic script as part of the process. Norton AntiVirus and
other virus scanning software may mistakenly flag this as a malicious or dangerous script. Letting the script
run allows the uninstall process to complete normally.
 Unexpected Connectivity Loss
If you uncheck the "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" box on the Power Management
tab and then put the system to sleep, you may lose connectivity when you exit sleep. You must disable and
enable the NIC to resolve the issue. Installing Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager will also resolve
the issue.
VLAN Creation Fails on a Team that Includes a Non-Intel Phantom Adapter
If you are unable to create a VLAN on a team that includes a non-Intel phantom adapter, use Device Manager
to remove the team, then recreate the team without the phantom adapter, and add the team to the VLAN.
A VLAN Created on an Intel Adapter Must be Removed Before a Multi-Vendor Team Can be
Created.
In order to create the team, the VLAN must first be removed.
Receive Side Scaling value is blank
Changing the Receive Side Scaling setting of an adapter in a team may cause the value for that setting to
appear blank when you next check it. It may also appear blank for the other adapters in the team. The adapter
may be unbound from the team in this situation. Disabling and enabling the team will resolve the issue.
RSS Load Balancing Profile Advanced Setting
Setting the "RSS load balancing profile" Advanced Setting to "ClosestProcessor" may significantly reduce
CPU utilization. However, in some system configurations (such as a system with more Ethernet ports than
processor cores), the "ClosestProcessor" setting may cause transmit and receive failures. Changing the
setting to "NUMAScalingStatic" will resolve the issue.
Opening Windows Device Manager property sheet takes longer than expected
The Windows Device Manager property sheet may take 60 seconds or longer to open. The driver must
discover all Intel Ethernet devices and initialize them before it can open the property sheet. This data is
cached, so subsequent openings of the property sheet are generally quicker.

Power Management Known Issues

System does not wake when expected
Under Microsoft Windows Server 2012, the system may not wake even though Wake on LAN settings are
enabled. Disabling Fast Startup in the operating system should resolve the issue.
System does not wake on link
On a driver-only installation, if you change 'Wake on Link Settings' to Forced and change 'Wake on Magic
Packet' and 'Wake on Pattern Match' to Disabled, the system may not wake up when expected. In order to
"Wake on Link" successfully, check the Power Management tab and make sure that Allow this device to
wake the computer is checked. You may also need to change 'Wake on Magic Packet' or 'Wake on Pattern
Match' to Enabled.
Directed Packets may not wake the system
On some systems, quad port server adapters may not wake when configured to wake on directed packet. If
you experience problems waking on directed packets, you must configure the adapter to use Magic Packets*.
Power Management options are unavailable or missing
If you install only the base drivers, later install Intel PROSet for Windows Device Manager, then remove
Intel PROSet, the settings on the Power Management tab on the Adapter Property Sheet may be unavailable
or missing altogether. You must reinstall Intel PROSet to resolve the issue.
 System Wakes-Up from a Removed VLAN
If a system goes into standby mode, and a directed packet is sent to the IP address of the removed VLAN, the
system will wake-up. This occurs because a directed packet bypasses VLAN filtering.
Intel Adapters ignore consecutive Wake Up signals while transitioning into standby mode
While sending a system into standby, occasionally a wake up packet arrives before the system completes the
transition into standby mode. When this happens, the system ignores consecutive wake up signals and
remains in standby mode until manually powered up using the mouse, keyboard, or power button.

Other Intel 10GbE Network Adapter Known Issues

ETS Bandwidth Allocations Don't Match Settings

When Jumbo Frames is set to 9K with a 10GbE adapter, a 90%/10% ETS traffic split will not actually be
attained on any particular port, despite settings being made on the DCB switch. When ETS is set to a
90%/10% split, an actual observed split of 70%/30% is more likely.

Link Loss on 10GbE Devices with Jumbo Frames Enabled

You must not lower Receive_Buffers or Transmit_Buffers below 256 if jumbo frames are enabled on an Intel
10GbE Device. Doing so will cause loss of link.

Failed connection and possible system instability

If you have non-Intel networking devices capable of Receive Side Scaling installed in your system, the
Microsoft Windows registry keyword RSSBaseCPU may have been changed from the default value of 0x0
to point to a logical processor. If this keyword has been changed, then devices based on Intel 82598 or
82599 10 Gigabit Ethernet Controllers might not pass traffic. Attempting to make driver changes in this state
may cause system instability. Set the value of RSSBaseCpu to 0x0, or to a value corresponding to a physical
processor, and reboot the system to resolve the issue.

Continuous PFC pause frames sent from Intel Ethernet X520 based devices

If you have an Intel Ethernet X520 based device connected to a switch port and modify the DCB bandwidth
settings on the switch port, the Intel Ethernet X520 device may perpetually send pause frames, causing a
storm, and fail to transfer data to and from the storage targets it was using. To recover from this issue, disable
the X520 ports, re-enable them, and then reconnect to the iSCSI target volumes. To avoid the issue, if the
DCB bandwidth settings need to be changed, do one of the following:
l Power down the server that contains the Intel Ethernet X520 device prior to modifying the DCB band-
width settings.
l Disable the switch ports connected to Intel X520 based device.
l Have no traffic running on the Intel X520 based device.

Unexpected NMI with 82599-based NICs

If you set the PCIe Maximum Payload Size to 256 bytes in your system BIOS and install an 82599-based
NIC, you may receive an NMI when the NIC attains link. This happens when the physical slot does not
support a payload size of 256 Bytes even if the BIOS does. Moving the adapter to a slot that supports 256
bytes will resolve the issue. Consult your system documentation for information on supported payload values.

X710/XL710 Known Issues

Some Intel X710 based devices report a subvendor ID of 0x0000 and may display a generic branding string.
Port 0 reports the correct subvendor ID and displays the correct branding string.
Intel X710 based devices may maintain link on any and all ports as long as power is provided to the device,
regardless of the device's or systems power state.
Intel X710/XL710 based devices do not support Microsoft Windows Server 2008R2 or Windows Server 2012
as SR-IOV Guest operating systems. These devices do not support Windows Server 2012 as the SR-IOV
Host operating system.
Driver Buffer Overflow Fix
The fix to resolve CVE-2016-8105, referenced in Intel SA-00069 https://security-
center.intel.com/advisory.aspx?intelid=INTEL-SA-00069&languageid=en-fr, is included in this and future
versions of the driver.
Intel ANS VLANs adversely affect performance
Intel ANS VLANs adversely affect the performance of X710 based devices. Use the networking features built
into Microsoft Windows Server 2012, or other server management software, to assign VLANs.
Diagnostic button disabled
When part of an Intel ANS team, devices based on the Intel X710 controller do not support diagnostics.
Support will be added in a future release.
Unexpected IntelDCB errors in the Windows Application Event Log
After upgrading your X710 drivers, you may see several IntelDCB errors in the Windows Application Event
Log. These errors are erroneous and can be ignored.
Lower than expected throughput on X710/XL710 based devices
If you have an X710 or XL710 based device installed in a four CPU socket system. Receive and transmit
traffic may be significantly lower than expected. Setting your interrupt rate to High may mitigate the issue.

Quad Port Server Adapter Known Issues

Downshifting
When connecting to any Gigabit switch via a faulty CAT 5 cable where one pair is broken, the adapter does
not downshift from 1 Gig to 100Mbps. For the adapter to downshift, it must identify two broken pairs in the
cable.
System does not boot
Your system may run out of I/O resources and fail to boot if you install more than four quad port server
adapters. Moving the adapters to different slots or rebalancing resources in the system BIOS may resolve the
issue. This issue affects the following Adapters:
l Intel Gigabit 4P I350-t Adapter
Regulatory Compliance Statements
FCC Class A Products
l Intel Ethernet Network Adapter XXV710
l Intel Ethernet Network Adapter XXV710-1
l Intel Ethernet Network Adapter XXV710-2
l Intel Ethernet I/O Module XL710-Q1
l Intel Ethernet I/O Module XL710-Q2
l Intel Ethernet OCP Server Adapter X520-1
l Intel Ethernet OCP Server Adapter X520-2
l Intel Ethernet Server Bypass Adapter X540-T2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X540-T1
l Intel Ethernet Server Bypass Adapter X520-SR2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X540-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-T2
l Intel Ethernet X520 10GbE Dual Port KX4 Mezz
l Intel 10 Gigabit AT2 Server Adapter
l Intel 10 Gigabit SR Dual Port Express Module
l Intel 10 Gigabit AT Server Adapter
l Intel Gigabit ET Quad Port Mezzanine Card
l Intel PRO/1000 MT Quad Port Server Adapter

FCC Class B Products

l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-4
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X710-T4
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter XL710-Q1
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter XL710-Q2
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550-T1
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X550-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-1
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520-2
l Intel Ethernet SFP+ LR Optics RMN FTLX1471
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X520-4
l Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X520-Q1
l Intel 10 Gigabit AF DA Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel 10 Gigabit CX4 Dual Port Server Adapter
 l Intel 10 Gigabit XF SR Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel 10 Gigabit XF SR Server Adapter
l Intel 10 Gigabit XF LR Server Adapter
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-T4
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T2
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I350-T4
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I210-T1
l Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-F4
l Intel Gigabit ET Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel Gigabit ET Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel Gigabit EF Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel Gigabit CT Desktop Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 MT Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 MT Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 GT Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 GT Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Quad Port LP Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 GT Desktop Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PT Desktop Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 MF Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 MF Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PF Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PF Dual Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/1000 PF Quad Port Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/100 M Desktop Adapter
l Intel PRO/100 S Desktop Adapter
l Intel PRO/100 S Server Adapter
l Intel PRO/100 S Dual Port Server Adapter

Safety Compliance
The following safety standards apply to all products listed above.
l UL 60950-1, 2nd Edition, 2011-12-19 (Information Technology Equipment - Safety - Part 1: General
Requirements)
l CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1-07, 2nd Edition, 2011-12 (Information Technology Equipment - Safety - Part 1:
General Requirements)
 l EN 60950-1:2006/A11:2009/A1:2010/A12:2011 (European Union)
l IEC 60950-1:2005 (2nd Edition); Am 1:2009 (International)
l EU LVD Directive 2006/95/EC

EMC Compliance The following standards may apply:

Class A products:
l FCC Part 15 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (USA)
l CAN ICES-3(A)/NMB-3(A) Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Canada)
l CISPR 22 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (International)
l EN55022: 2010 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (European Union)
l EN55024: 2010 +A1:2001+A2:2003 Immunity (European Union)
l EMC Directive 2004/108/EC
l VCCI (Class A) Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Japan)
l CNS13438 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Taiwan)
l AS/NZS CISPR 22 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Australia/New Zealand)
l NRRA No. 2012-13 (2012.06.28), NRRA Notice No. 2012-14 (2012.06.28) (Korea)

Class B products:
l FCC Part 15 (Class B) Radiated & Conducted Emissions (USA)
l CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B) Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Canada)
l CISPR 22 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (International)
l EN55022: 2010 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (European Union)
l EN55024: 2010 Immunity (European Union)
l EU EMC Directive 2004/108/EC
l VCCI (Class B) Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Japan) (excluding optics)
l CNS13438 (Class B)-2006 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Taiwan) (excluding optics)
l AS/NZS CISPR 22 Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Australia/New Zealand)
l KN22; KN24 Korean emissions and immunity
l NRRA No. 2012-13 (2012.06.28), NRRA Notice No. 2012-14 (2012.06.28) (Korea)

Regulatory Compliance Markings

When required these products are provided with the following Product Certification Markings:
l UL Recognition Mark for USA and Canada
l CE Mark
l EU WEEE Logo
l FCC markings
l VCCI marking
l Australian C-Tick Mark
 l Korea MSIP mark
l Taiwan BSMI mark
l People's Republic of China "EFUP" mark

FCC Class A User Information

The Class A products listed above comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable pro-
tection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio com-
munications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful inter-
ference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

CAUTION: If the device is changed or modified without permission from Intel, the user may void
his or her authority to operate the equipment.

Canadian Compliance (Industry Canada)

CAN ICES-3(A)/NMB-3(A)

VCCI Class A Statement

BSMI Class A Statement

KCC Notice Class A (Republic of Korea Only)

BSMI Class A Notice (Taiwan)

FCC Class B User Information

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
l Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
l Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
l Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
l Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

CAUTION: If the device is changed or modified without permission from Intel, the user may void
his or her authority to operate the equipment.
 NOTE: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Electromagnetic Compatibility Notices

FCC Declaration of Conformity Statement

The following products have been tested to Comply with FCC Standards for Home or Office Use.
PRO/1000 MT, PRO/1000 PT, PRO/1000 GT, Gigabit PT, Gigabit ET, I210-T1, I340-T2/T4, I350-T2/T4,
PRO/100 M Desktop Adapter, PRO/100 S Desktop Adapter, PRO/100 S Server Adapter, and PRO/100 S
Dual Port Server Adapter

Canadian Compliance (Industry Canada)

CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3 (B)

VCCI Class B Statement (Japan)

KCC Notice Class B (Republic of Korea Only)

EU WEEE Logo

Manufacturer Declaration European Community

Manufacturer Declaration
Intel Corporation declares that the equipment described in this document is in conformance with the
requirements of the European Council Directive listed below:
l Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
l EMC Directive2004/108/EC
l RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
These products follow the provisions of the European Directive 1999/5/EC.
Dette produkt er i overensstemmelse med det europiske direktiv 1999/5/EC.
Dit product is in navolging van de bepalingen van Europees Directief 1999/5/EC.
Tm tuote noudattaa EU-direktiivin 1999/5/EC mryksi.
Ce produit est conforme aux exigences de la Directive Europenne 1999/5/EC.
Dieses Produkt entspricht den Bestimmungen der Europischen Richtlinie 1999/5/EC.
essi vara stenst regluger Evrpska Efnahags Bandalagsins nmer 1999/5/EC.
Questo prodotto conforme alla Direttiva Europea 1999/5/EC.
Dette produktet er i henhold til bestemmelsene i det europeiske direktivet 1999/5/EC.
Este produto cumpre com as normas da Diretiva Europia 1999/5/EC.
Este producto cumple con las normas del Directivo Europeo 1999/5/EC.
Denna produkt har tillverkats i enlighet med EG-direktiv 1999/5/EC.
This declaration is based upon compliance of the Class A products listed above to the following standards:
EN 55022:2010 (CISPR 22 Class A) RF Emissions Control.
EN 55024:2010 (CISPR 24) Immunity to Electromagnetic Disturbance.
EN 60950-1:2006/A11:2009A1:2010/A12:2011 Information Technology Equipment- Safety-Part 1: General
Requirements.
EN 50581:2012 - Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products with
respect to the restriction of hazardous substances.
This declaration is based upon compliance of the Class B products listed above to the following standards:
EN 55022:2010 (CISPR 22 Class B) RF Emissions Control.
EN 55024:2010 (CISPR 24) Immunity to Electromagnetic Disturbance.
EN 60950-1:2006/A11:2009/A1:2010/A12:2011 Information Technology Equipment- Safety-Part 1: General
Requirements.
EN 50581:2012 - Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products with
respect to the restriction of hazardous substances.

WARNING: In a domestic environment, Class A products may cause radio interference, in which
case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

Responsible Party
Intel Corporation, Mailstop JF3-446
5200 N.E. Elam Young Parkway
Hillsboro, OR 97124-6497
Phone 1-800-628-8686
China RoHS Declaration

Class 1 Laser Products

Server adapters listed above may contain laser devices for communication use. These devices are compliant
with the requirements for Class 1 Laser Products and are safe in the intended use. In normal operation the
output of these laser devices does not exceed the exposure limit of the eye and cannot cause harm.
For continued safe operation in case of an abnormal circumstance, always have the provided laser connector
cover in place or a compatible fiber optics cable properly connected when power is available to the product.
The Laser device must be factory serviced ONLY by the responsible manufacturer! NO adjustments, service
or maintenance is to be performed otherwise.

CAUTION: Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those

specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

These Class 1 Laser devices:

Comply with FDA/CDRH per CFR21, subchapter J.
Comply with IEC 60825-1:2007

End-of-Life / Product Recycling

Product recycling and end-of-life take-back systems and requirements vary by country.
Contact the retailer or distributor of this product for information about product recycling and/or take-back.
Customer Support
Intel support is available on the web or by phone. Support offers the most up-to-date information about Intel
products, including installation instructions, troubleshooting tips, and general product information.

Web and Internet Sites

Support: http://www.intel.com/support
Corporate Site for Network Products: http://www.intel.com/products/ethernet/overview.htm
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unintended or unauthorized use, even if such claim alleges that Intel was negligent regarding the design or
manufacture of the part.
TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. Intel may terminate this Agreement at any time if you violate its
terms. Upon termination, you will immediately destroy the Software or return all copies of the Software to
Intel.
APPLICABLE LAWS. Claims arising under this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of
California, without regard to principles of conflict of laws. You agree that the terms of the United Nations
Convention on Contracts for the Sale of Goods do not apply to this Agreement. You may not export the
Software in violation of applicable export laws and regulations. Intel is not obligated under any other
agreements unless they are in writing and signed by an authorized representative of Intel.
GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS. The enclosed Software and documentation were developed at
private expense, and are provided with "RESTRICTED RIGHTS." Use, duplication, or disclosure by the
Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in FAR 52.227-14 and DFARS 252.227-7013 et seq. or its
successor. The use of this product by the Government constitutes acknowledgment of Intels proprietary
rights in the Software. Contractor or Manufacturer is Intel.
LANGUAGE; TRANSLATIONS. In the event that the English language version of this Agreement is
accompanied by any other version translated into any other language, such translated version is provided for
convenience purposes only and the English language version shall control.

Copyright and Legal Disclaimers

Copyright 2002-2017 Intel Corporation. All rights reserved.
Intel Corporation, 5200 N.E. Elam Young Parkway, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6497 USA
Intel Corporation assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this document. Nor does Intel make any
commitment to update the information contained herein.
Intel, the Intel logo, and Itanium are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other
countries.
*Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty

Intel warrants to the original owner that the adapter product delivered in this package will be free from defects
in material and workmanship. This warranty does not cover the adapter product if it is damaged in the process
of being installed or improperly used.
THE ABOVE WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTY, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED
OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY WARRANTY OF NONINFRINGEMENT OF
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
ARISING OUT OF ANY PROPOSAL, SPECIFICATION, OR SAMPLE.
This warranty does not cover replacement of adapter products damaged by abuse, accident, misuse, neglect,
alteration, repair, disaster, improper installation, or improper testing. If the adapter product is found to be
defective, Intel, at its option, will replace or repair the hardware product at no charge except as set forth below,
or refund your purchase price provided that you deliver the adapter product along with a Return Material
Authorization(RMA) number (see below), along with proof of purchase (if not registered), either to the dealer
from whom you purchased it or to Intel with an explanation of any deficiency. If you ship the adapter product,
you must assume the risk of damage or loss in transit. You must use the original container (or the equivalent)
and pay the shipping charge.
Intel may replace or repair the adapter product with either new or reconditioned parts, and any adapter product,
or part thereof replaced by Intel becomes Intel's property. Repaired or replaced adapter products will be
returned to you at the same revision level as received or higher, at Intel's option. Intel reserves the right to
replace discontinued adapter products with an equivalent current generation adapter product.

Returning a defective product

From North America:

Before returning any adapter product, contact Intel Customer Support and obtain a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number by calling +1 916-377-7000.
If the Customer Support Group verifies that the adapter product is defective, they will have the RMA
department issue you an RMA number to place on the outer package of the adapter product. Intel cannot
accept any product without an RMA number on the package.

All other locations:

Return the adapter product to the place of purchase for a refund or replacement.

Intel Adapter Money-back Guarantee (North America Only)

Intel wants you to be completely satisfied with the Intel adapter product that you have purchased. Any time
within ninety (90) days of purchase, you may return your Intel adapter to the original place of purchase for a full
refund of the purchase price from your dealer. Resellers and distributors, respectively, accepting returns and
refunding money back to their customers may return Intel adapters to their original place of purchase. Intel
guarantees that it will accept returns under this policy and refund the original purchase price to customers
purchasing directly from Intel.

Limitation of Liability and Remedies

INTEL'S SOLE LIABILITY HEREUNDER SHALL BE LIMITED TO DIRECT, OBJECTIVELY
MEASURABLE DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL INTEL HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY INDIRECT
OR SPECULATIVE DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING,
CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, AND SPECIAL DAMAGES) INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
INFRINGEMENT OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, REPROCUREMENT COSTS, LOSS OF USE,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, LOSS OF GOODWILL, AND LOSS OF PROFITS, WHETHER ANY
SUCH DAMAGES ARISE OUT OF CONTRACT NEGLIGENCE, TORT, OR UNDER ANY WARRANTY,
IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER INTEL HAS ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF ANY SUCH
DAMAGES. NOTWITHSTANDING THE FOREGOING, INTEL'S TOTAL LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS
UNDER THIS AGREEMENT SHALL NOT EXCEED THE PRICE PAID FOR THE PRODUCT. THESE
LIMITATIONS ON POTENTIAL LIABILITIES WERE AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT IN SETTING THE
PRODUCT PRICE. INTEL NEITHER ASSUMES NOR AUTHORIZES ANYONE TO ASSUME FOR IT
ANY OTHER LIABILITIES.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitations may not apply to you.
Critical Control Applications: Intel specifically disclaims liability for use of the adapter product in critical
control applications (including, for example only, safety or health care control systems, nuclear energy control
systems, or air or ground traffic control systems) by Licensee or Sublicensees, and such use is entirely at the
user's risk. Licensee agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold Intel harmless from and against any and all claims
arising out of use of the adapter product in such applications by Licensee or Sublicensees.
Software: Software provided with the adapter product is not covered under the hardware warranty described
above. See the applicable software license agreement which shipped with the adapter product for details on
any software warranty.
Note: If you are a consumer under the Australian Consumer Law, this warranty does not apply to you. Please
visit Australian Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty to view the limited warranty which is applicable to
Australian consumers.