StarTech.com USB-C to 2.5GbE Ethernet Adapter with USB-A Converter U2GA-USB-C-ETHERNET
The StarTech.com U2GA-USB-C-ETHERNET adapter provides a robust 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connection to any USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4 enabled device, ensuring high-speed, reliable network access for demanding business applications.
- 2.5GbE Performance: Delivers up to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet speeds, significantly boosting data transfer rates for large file operations and critical business applications.
- Universal Connectivity: Features both USB-C and an integrated USB-A converter, ensuring broad compatibility across modern and legacy laptops, desktops, and tablets.
- Plug-and-Play Operation: Requires no driver installation on most modern operating systems, enabling rapid deployment and minimizing IT support overhead.
- Bus-Powered Design: Draws power directly from the USB port, eliminating the need for an external power adapter and simplifying workstation setups.
Product Overview
Product Overview
The StarTech.com U2GA-USB-C-ETHERNET adapter is engineered to deliver a high-performance 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connection, leveraging USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) to provide robust network access. This compact device features a USB Type-C host interface and includes a USB-A converter, ensuring broad compatibility with a wide range of laptops, desktops, and tablets.
Designed for operational efficiency, this adapter supports NBase-T cabling technology, allowing 2.5GbE speeds over existing Cat5e cables, thereby avoiding costly infrastructure upgrades. Its support for Wake-on-LAN and Jumbo Frames (up to 16000 bytes) further enhances network management and data throughput for business environments.
- Enhanced Network Speed: Provides 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, accelerating large file transfers and improving the responsiveness of cloud-based applications for increased productivity.
- Broad Device Compatibility: Connects to any USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4 enabled device, and includes a USB-A converter for seamless integration with older systems, maximizing hardware utility.
- Simplified Deployment: Offers plug-and-play functionality with major operating systems, reducing setup time and minimizing the need for IT intervention during device rollout.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: Utilizes NBase-T technology to achieve 2.5GbE over existing Cat5e cabling, eliminating the expense and disruption of new cable installations.
- Reliable Performance: Supports IEEE 802.3bz and other networking standards, ensuring stable and consistent network performance for critical business operations.
This StarTech.com adapter is an essential tool for any organization seeking to upgrade network performance and connectivity for their modern and legacy devices with minimal investment.
Technical Specifications
1Performance & Business Impact
2Connectivity & I/O
3Physical & Environmental
4Lifecycle, Warranty & Compliance
Full Specifications
Network12
Ports & interfaces6
Power2
Weight & dimensions4
Design6
System requirements1
Operational conditions1
Packaging data1
Technical details1
Logistics data1
Other features1
Downloads1
What This Solves
High-Speed Workstation Connectivity
Many modern laptops and ultrabooks lack a built-in Ethernet port, forcing reliance on slower or less stable Wi-Fi connections. This adapter provides a dedicated 2.5GbE wired connection, ensuring consistent high-speed data transfer for critical business applications.
Corporate offices, home office setups, mobile professionals, temporary workstations
Enhanced Network Performance for Servers
For small servers or network-attached storage (NAS) devices that may have only Gigabit Ethernet, upgrading to 2.5GbE can significantly improve data throughput. This adapter offers a cost-effective way to boost network performance for data backup and file sharing operations.
Small business servers, departmental NAS, media production studios, data archiving solutions
Flexible Device Integration
Organizations often operate a mix of newer USB-C enabled devices and older USB-A systems, requiring versatile connectivity solutions. The integrated USB-A converter ensures this adapter can be used across a diverse hardware fleet, maximizing utility and reducing accessory sprawl.
Mixed-device environments, IT support teams, temporary network access, conference room setups
Key Features
2.5 Gigabit Ethernet (NBase-T)
Achieves data transfer speeds up to 2.5 times faster than standard Gigabit Ethernet, significantly reducing file transfer times and improving application responsiveness.
USB Type-C Host Interface with USB-A Converter
Ensures universal compatibility with both modern USB-C/Thunderbolt 3/4 devices and legacy USB-A ports, extending the lifespan and utility of existing hardware.
Wake-on-LAN (WoL) Ready
Enables remote power-on of connected devices, facilitating efficient IT management and reducing energy consumption during off-hours.
Jumbo Frames Support (16000 bytes)
Optimizes network efficiency by allowing larger data packets, which reduces CPU utilization and increases throughput for data-intensive applications.
Bus-Powered Operation
Draws power directly from the USB port, eliminating the need for an external power adapter and simplifying deployment in various workstation environments.
Compatible With
Modern Laptops & Tablets
MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, HP Spectre, Microsoft Surface, Chromebooks with USB-C/Thunderbolt
Desktop PCs & Workstations
Any desktop or workstation with an available USB-A or USB-C port
Network Infrastructure
2.5GbE, Gigabit, and Fast Ethernet switches, routers, and network attached storage (NAS)
Operating Systems
Windows 10/11, macOS (El Capitan to Sonoma), Linux, Windows Server 2008 R2 to 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
What operating systems are compatible with this adapter?
This StarTech.com adapter supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 10/11, Windows 7/8/8.1, macOS (versions 10.11 El Capitan through 14.0 Sonoma), and various Linux distributions. It also supports Windows Server 2008 R2, 2012 R2, 2016, and 2022.
Can this adapter achieve 2.5GbE speeds over existing Cat5e cabling?
Yes, this adapter supports NBase-T technology, which is specifically designed to deliver 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet speeds over standard Cat5e cabling up to 100 meters. This eliminates the need for costly Cat6 or Cat6a cable upgrades.
Does this adapter require external power?
No, the adapter is USB powered, drawing all necessary power directly from the host USB-C or USB-A port. This simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter in your workspace.
What is the maximum data transfer rate supported by the USB interface?
The adapter utilizes a USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) host interface, which supports a maximum data transfer rate of 5000 Mbit/s (5 Gbps). This ensures sufficient bandwidth for the 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connection.
Warranty & Returns
Manufacturer Warranty
2 Years
Warranty is provided directly by the manufacturer and covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Return Policy
Returns subject to manufacturer approval
Hardware returns are governed by the manufacturer's return policy. Some products are non-returnable or subject to restocking fees. Defective items are handled under the manufacturer warranty. Contact Zent Networks before initiating any return.