Lenovo Flex System CN4022 2-port 10Gb Converged Adapter

Designed for IBM Flex System™ Intel processor-based compute nodes, the Lenovo Flex System CN4022 2-Port 10Gb Converged Adapter is a versatile, high-performance solution that unifies networking and storage I/O. This converged adapter supports Ethernet, FCoE and iSCSI protocols in a single, compact card, delivering accelerated connectivity for virtualized environments. Optimized for high throughput and low latency, it helps data centers achieve greater efficiency, simplified cabling, and scalable performance. Whether you’re deploying virtual machines, hyper-converged workloads, or storage-area networks, the CN4022 is built to keep your enterprise workloads responsive and reliable while reducing total cost of ownership.

• Converged 2-port 10Gb adapter designed specifically for IBM Flex System compute nodes, delivering two high-speed 10Gb Ethernet channels that streamline I/O for virtualized workloads. By consolidating Ethernet and storage connectivity on a single card, you gain simplified cabling, easier management, and improved airflow within dense IBM chassis environments. This adapter is purpose-built to fit seamlessly into the IBM Flex System architecture, ensuring compatibility and stable operation in demanding data center deployments.
• Supports Ethernet, FCoE and iSCSI protocols in a single device, enabling seamless integration of storage traffic alongside traditional network data. With FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet) and iSCSI support, you can offload storage networking tasks from the host CPU, boost efficiency, and consolidate storage paths without sacrificing performance. The CN4022 is ideal for environments that require robust storage access, fast data movement, and simplified storage network design in virtualized ecosystems.
• High throughput and low latency for virtualized workloads The 10Gb speeds provide ample bandwidth for multiple virtual machines, databases, and bandwidth-intensive applications. Optimized for low latency, this converged adapter minimizes I/O wait times, helping applications respond faster and improving overall user experience in virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), cloud-ready apps, and mission-critical services. By delivering consistent performance under load, it supports reliable service levels and predictable throughput for diverse workloads.
• IBM Flex System integration for streamlined management Engineered to work with Intel processor-based compute nodes and the Flex System family, the CN4022 aligns with IBM’s management and firmware ecosystems. This tight integration simplifies deployment, firmware updates, and policy enforcement, ensuring compatibility with your existing IBM hardware and system software. The result is a stable platform that reduces administrative overhead while enabling scalable expansion as your data center grows.
• Cost-efficient, scalable connectivity By consolidating network and storage I/O onto a single adapter, you reduce cabling, module count, and energy usage. The CN4022 supports scalable performance for virtualized environments, cloud-ready workloads, and data-intensive applications, helping data centers lower operating expenses while maintaining headroom for future growth. Its compact design fits into dense IBM Flex System enclosures, freeing up space for additional compute or storage resources without sacrificing performance.

Techncial Details of Lenovo Flex System CN4022 2-Port 10Gb Converged Adapter

• Get this information from the "specifications" section of the product from https://ec.synnex.com/ using product "UPC" or "SKU" as reference

How to install Lenovo Flex System CN4022 2-Port 10Gb Converged Adapter

• Prepare the IBM Flex System chassis for installation by powering down the system and disconnecting all cables. If you are replacing an existing adapter, carefully remove the old card, noting its orientation and connector alignment before disposal or re-use. Ensure you are following your data center’s safety and static electricity guidelines during the process.
• Open the compute node panel and locate a supported PCIe slot designed for IBM Flex System adapters. The CN4022 is designed to fit into standard server PCIe slots within the compute node, with the connector edge aligned to seat securely. Gently insert the card until it seats firmly and the retention mechanism engages. Avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the slot or card.
• Secure the CN4022 with the appropriate bracket or latch as required by the IBM Flex System chassis design. Re-seat the system cover and attach any previously disconnected cables to their corresponding ports in the enclosure, ensuring proper routing to minimize cable strain and maximize airflow around the module.
• Power up the chassis and access the management interface to verify device recognition and link status. Check that both 10Gb ports are detected and report their speed and operating state. Load any necessary firmware or driver updates recommended by IBM/Lenovo to ensure compatibility with your NIC firmware baseline and system BIOS.
• Configure networking and storage paths within your virtualization platform and storage area network design. Create or validate vSwitches, VLANs, and storage fabrics (Ethernet, FCoE, and iSCSI) as appropriate for your environment. Run a baseline performance test to confirm throughput and latency targets are met, and adjust firmware or driver settings if you observe any congestion or unexpected behavior.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Lenovo Flex System CN4022 used for? A: It is a 2-port 10Gb converged adapter designed for IBM Flex System Intel processor-based compute nodes. It enables Ethernet, FCoE, and iSCSI connectivity on a single card, delivering high-throughput network and storage I/O for virtualized environments while simplifying cabling and management.
• Q: Which protocols does the CN4022 support? A: The CN4022 supports Ethernet for regular network traffic, Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) for storage networking, and iSCSI for block storage access. This combination reduces the need for separate NICs and storage adapters, helping consolidate your data-paths.
• Q: Is the CN4022 compatible with IBM Flex System compute nodes? A: Yes. The CN4022 is designed to work with IBM Flex System Intel processor-based compute nodes, aligning with IBM’s enclosure and management ecosystem to provide integrated, reliable performance in a converged data center setup.
• Q: What benefits does a converged 2-port 10Gb adapter bring to a virtualized environment? A: It consolidates I/O, reduces cable clutter, lowers total cost of ownership, and improves scalability. The 10Gb bandwidth supports multiple VMs and storage traffic with lower latency, while the offload capabilities help free CPU resources for compute-intensive tasks.
• Q: How do I ensure optimal performance with the CN4022? A: Stay current with firmware updates, verify compatibility with your virtualization stack, and configure storage and network fabrics to align with your workload profile. Regularly monitor throughput and latency, and adjust queue depths, offload settings, and VLAN configurations as needed to maintain consistent performance.