Quick Start Guide for StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5GBase-T PCIe PoE Network Adapter
Quick start guide for the StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5GBase-T PCIe PoE Network Adapter (PR22GIP-NETWORK-CARD). Includes installation steps, power connection requirements for PoE, driver setup for Windows and Linux, and LED indicator...
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- This guide covers the installation and setup of the StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5GBase-T PCIe PoE Network Adapter, including hardware installation, internal power connection for PoE, and driver installation. p. 1, 2
Key actions
- Install the card into a PCIe slot and secure the bracket. p. 1, 2
- Connect internal power (8-pin PCIe or LP4) to enable PoE. p. 2
First start
- Power off the computer, install the card, connect power, boot, and install drivers. p. 1, 2
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Speed | 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps, 10 Mbps | Supported link speeds | p. 1 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Installation and Hardware p. 1, 2
- Driver Setup p. 2
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
This document provides instructions for installing the StarTech.com 2-Port 2.5GBase-T PCIe PoE Network Adapter. To enable Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality, you must connect the card to your computer's power supply using either the 8-pin PCIe or LP4 power connector. The card requires a free PCIe 2.0 or higher slot (x2, x4, x8, or x16) to operate.
Installation
Warning: Static electricity can damage PCI Express cards. Ensure you are properly grounded using an anti-static wrist strap or mat before opening the computer case.
- Turn off the host computer and all connected peripherals.
- Disconnect the power cable from the back of the computer.
- Remove the computer case cover.
- Locate a free PCIe slot and remove the corresponding slot cover from the back of the case.
- Insert the PCIe card into the slot and secure the bracket. If using a small form factor case, swap the pre-installed full-profile bracket with the included low-profile bracket.
- Connect the 8-pin PCIe or LP4 power cable from the host power supply to the power connector on the back of the network card.
- Reinstall the case cover, reconnect power, and turn on the computer.
Driver setup
To install the drivers, visit www.StarTech.com/PR22GIP-NETWORK-CARD and navigate to the Drivers & Downloads tab. Download the driver package for your operating system, extract the files, and follow the included instructions. For Linux, ensure you are using kernel 5.8 or higher.
LED indicators
The network ports feature LED indicators to show status:

- Right LED (Link Speed): Solid Green indicates 2.5 Gbps, Solid Amber indicates 1 Gbps, and Off indicates 10/100 Mbps.
- Left LED (Link Status): Solid Green indicates an active link, while flashing Green indicates network activity.
- PoE LED: Solid Green indicates PoE is negotiated and power is being supplied; Off indicates no PoE power negotiation.
Official resources from the manual
Practical help
Common problems
Ensure that the 8-pin PCIe or LP4 power cable from the host power supply is securely connected to the power connector on the network card.
If you are using a small form factor or low-profile case, replace the pre-installed full-profile bracket with the included low-profile bracket.
Before use
- Ensure you have a free PCIe 2.0 or higher slot (x2, x4, x8, or x16).
- Have an anti-static wrist strap or mat ready to prevent ESD damage.
- Verify your power supply has an available 8-pin PCIe or LP4 connector.
- Download the latest drivers from the StarTech.com support website.
Specs in practice
- PoE (Power over Ethernet)
- Requires internal power connection to the card to supply power to connected devices.
Images and diagrams
- The card features two Ethernet ports with integrated status LEDs.
- Internal power connectors (PCIe 8-pin or LP4) are located on the rear of the card.
- The bracket is interchangeable between full-profile and low-profile.
Model compatibility
- Requires PCIe 2.0 or higher slot.
- Linux requires kernel 5.8 or higher.
- PoE requires internal power connection.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.