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I need a network card for my dell t3600 that is compatible with esxi 5.1 server

I need to purchase a couple of network cards for my t3600 that is compatible with esxi 5.1. Can someone please help?

Use the HCL to check...if they are on the HCL then they are good to use...

Generally stick with the Intel ones I hear they give least trouble...

http://www.vmware.com/resources/compatibility/search.php?deviceCategory=io

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Andrew Hancock (VMware vExpert PRO / EE Fellow/British Beekeeper)

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Ryan Lanham

First check the t3600 spec sheet and the workstation to insure you have the correct open port.

Dell t3600 Spec. Sheet

The t3600 should have an Integrated Intel 82579 Gigabit Ethernet controller which will work with ESXi 5.1 but only via enabling it / uploading new drivers:
Installing / Updating Intel Network Driver for ESX 5.1

You can skip all that and download the Dell ESX 5.1 iso image direct from Dell:
Dell VMware ESXi 5.1 Recovery Image

I recommend using the Dell ESX image to install with, it's exactly like installing ESX from VMware but they slipstream the drivers for the motherboard, networking, and etc into the build.

Andrew Hancock (VMware vExpert PRO / EE Fellow/British Beekeeper)

@rlanham That method is not officially supported by VMware, because the driver is homebrew!

but the Workstation is not supported either!

So "buyer" beware!

frankbustos

ASKER

this worked for me! thanks!