Need to replace a network card, network is 1gb everywhere with a switch with 8 PCs, large graphic files on other HDs (no server), cat 5 (min) everywhere...
PCs are Dell Dimension 4600s I think.

Any recommendations for a good reliable card?

I have read some reviews about a netgear card where the user has not managed to get much above 80Mbs... Seems a bit wierd.

Thanks,
Rich

 

If you're worried about compatability issues get a card from the same manufacturer as the switch, i.e. 3com switch, get a 3com card.... Netgear is aimed at the lower end of the market and as with most things you pay peanuts you get monkeys....

As to the speed question you can put the fastest network card in the world into a crud spec PC and you'll still get crud throughput as the other components in the PC will hold it back. Sharing large graphics files without a server is not ideal... hope you do regular backups!

 

Yeah, backups are done religiously and using multiple methods. Server is on the cards too, the whole network needs a tidy up...

Thanks for the card info.