StarTech.com US2GA30 USB-A to 2.5GbE Ethernet Adapter for Windows Mac Linux
The StarTech.com US2GA30 USB-A to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter instantly upgrades laptops and desktops to a high-speed wired network connection, delivering up to 2.5 Gbps for efficient data transfer.
- 2.5 Gigabit Performance: Provides a 2.5 Gbps wired network connection, significantly accelerating large file transfers and reducing network bottlenecks for critical business applications.
- Universal USB-A Connectivity: Utilizes a standard USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) Type-A port, ensuring broad compatibility with existing laptops and desktops lacking integrated Ethernet.
- Cross-Platform Support: Fully compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, enabling seamless integration across diverse IT environments without driver complexities.
- Enhanced Network Control: Supports advanced features like VLAN tagging and Jumbo Frames, allowing IT teams to segment networks and optimize data throughput for specialized workloads.
Product Overview
Product Overview
The StarTech.com US2GA30 is a high-performance USB-A to Ethernet adapter, engineered to provide 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to any laptop or desktop equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) port. This compact adapter delivers a maximum network data transfer rate of 2.5 Gbps, ensuring rapid access to network resources and applications.
Designed for operational efficiency, the US2GA30 supports critical networking standards including IEEE 802.3bz for 2.5GbE and IEEE 802.1Q for VLAN tagging, enabling secure network segmentation. Its robust Realtek RTL8156 chipset ensures stable performance, backed by a 10,000-hour Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) for sustained reliability.
- High-Speed Network Access: Delivers up to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, enabling faster data backups, large file transfers, and improved responsiveness for network-intensive applications.
- Broad OS Compatibility: Supports Windows 7/8.1/10, Windows Server, Mac OS X 10.11+, and Linux, ensuring seamless integration into diverse corporate IT infrastructures.
- Efficient Data Handling: Features Jumbo Frames support up to 16000 bytes, optimizing data throughput for large packets and reducing CPU overhead during heavy network traffic.
- Secure Network Segmentation: Incorporates VLAN tagging (IEEE 802.1Q) to enable logical network separation, enhancing security and improving traffic management within an organization.
- Durable & Reliable Design: Engineered with a Realtek RTL8156 chipset and a 10,000-hour MTBF, providing a dependable network connection that minimizes downtime and extends hardware lifecycle.
This adapter is an essential tool for businesses seeking to enhance network performance and maintain robust connectivity across their computing fleet without extensive hardware upgrades.
Technical Specifications
1Performance & Business Impact
2Connectivity & I/O
3Physical & Environmental
4Lifecycle, Warranty & Compliance
Full Specifications
Network7
Ports & interfaces5
Weight & dimensions3
Design7
System requirements1
Operational conditions1
Packaging data1
Technical details1
Logistics data1
Other features1
What This Solves
High-Speed Data Access for Laptops
Many modern business laptops prioritize thin designs, often omitting integrated Ethernet ports or limiting them to 1 Gigabit speeds. This adapter provides a crucial upgrade, enabling these devices to connect to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet networks for significantly faster data transfers and reduced latency.
Remote workers, mobile professionals, and office staff requiring reliable, high-speed wired connections for their own operations
Optimizing Network Performance
In environments where existing network infrastructure supports 2.5GbE, but client devices are limited to 1GbE or Wi-Fi, bottlenecks can severely impact productivity. This adapter allows individual workstations to fully utilize the available network bandwidth, accelerating access to shared resources and cloud applications.
Growing mid-market companies, design studios, and engineering firms managing large files and demanding network applications
Enabling Secure Network Segmentation
For organizations implementing network segmentation to enhance security and manage traffic, devices need to support VLAN tagging. This adapter's IEEE 802.1Q VLAN support allows IT teams to assign devices to specific virtual networks, isolating sensitive data traffic and improving overall network control.
IT operations teams, network administrators, and compliance-focused businesses requiring granular control over network access
Key Features
USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) Host Interface
Ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of existing laptops and desktops, enabling a cost-effective network upgrade without requiring new hardware.
2.5 Gigabit Ethernet (IEEE 802.3bz)
Delivers network speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, significantly accelerating large file transfers, backups, and access to network-attached storage for improved operational efficiency.
VLAN Tagging (IEEE 802.1Q) Support
Allows IT administrators to segment network traffic, enhancing security by isolating sensitive data and optimizing network performance for specific applications or departments.
Jumbo Frames Support (up to 16000 bytes)
Improves network efficiency by allowing larger data packets, reducing CPU utilization and increasing throughput for data-intensive applications like video editing or database operations.
Realtek RTL8156 Chipset with 10,000-hour MTBF
Provides a stable and reliable network connection with a high Mean Time Between Failures, minimizing unexpected downtime and ensuring consistent business operations.
Compatible With
Business Laptops & Desktops
Dell Latitude, HP ProBook, Lenovo ThinkPad, Apple MacBook, Microsoft Surface
Network Infrastructure
2.5GbE switches, routers, network attached storage (NAS) devices, servers
Workstations & Servers
High-performance workstations, small business servers, virtual machine hosts
Operating Systems
Windows 10/11, macOS Ventura/Monterey, various Linux distributions, Windows Server
Frequently Asked Questions
What operating systems are compatible with the StarTech.com US2GA30 adapter?
The adapter is broadly compatible with Windows 10/8.1/7, Windows Server 2008 R2/2012 R2/2016, Mac OS X 10.11 and newer, and various Linux distributions, ensuring versatile deployment across different IT environments.
Can this adapter deliver true 2.5 Gigabit speeds?
Yes, when connected to a USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) port and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet network, the adapter supports full 2.5 Gbps bandwidth, significantly outperforming standard Gigabit Ethernet connections.
Does this adapter require external power?
No, the StarTech.com US2GA30 is bus-powered, drawing all necessary power directly from the USB-A port of the host device, simplifying deployment and reducing cable clutter.
Is this adapter suitable for network segmentation using VLANs?
Yes, the adapter supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging, allowing it to integrate into segmented networks for enhanced security and efficient traffic management, which is crucial for business operations.
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.