5520-VIM-4YE Extreme Networks 4 Port SFP28 Wired 5520 VIM 4X25GE MACSEC U Ethernet Expansion Module

Extreme Networks 4 Port Expansion Module

The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE is a high-performance Ethernet expansion module designed to enhance connectivity and deliver secure, reliable networking solutions. With advanced features such as MACsec U encryption and multi-gigabit support, this module ensures seamless integration for enterprise-grade infrastructures.

General Information

• Brand: Extreme Networks
• Model Number: 5520-VIM-4YE
• Category: Expansion Module

Technical Specifications

Cabling Compatibility

• Ethernet 10GBASE-X
• Ethernet 25GBASE-X

Connectivity Technology

• Wired networking for stable and secure data transfer

Design & Form Factor

Physical Attributes

• Form Factor: Plug-in module
• Weight: 7.41 Oz

Networking Features

Module Type

• Expansion module for enhanced Ethernet capabilities

Performance Metrics

• Data Transfer Speed: Up to 25GBPS

Supported Protocols

Ethernet Standards

• 10 Gigabit Ethernet
• 25 Gigabit Ethernet

5520-VIM-4YE 4 Port 5520 Series Expansion Module Overview

The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE 4 Port SFP28 Wired 5520 VIM 4X25GE MACSEC U Ethernet Expansion Module represents a specialized expansion category within high-performance enterprise and service provider networking. This category focuses on modular uplink and expansion interfaces designed to extend the functionality, scalability, and security posture of Extreme Networks 5520 Series switches. By enabling high-speed 25 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity through SFP28 interfaces combined with hardware-based MACsec encryption, this class of expansion modules addresses the evolving demands of modern digital infrastructure, cloud-ready campuses, and high-throughput aggregation layers.

Within the Extreme Networks switching ecosystem, VIM modules serve as critical enablers of customization. Organizations deploying 5520 Series switches often require flexible uplink options that can adapt to changing traffic patterns, security requirements, and physical media constraints. The 5520-VIM-4YE category fulfills this role by delivering a balance of bandwidth density, encryption capability, and seamless integration with Extreme Networks Fabric and management platforms. As part of a modular design philosophy, this category allows enterprises to protect investments while scaling performance as network demands grow.

Role of 25 Gigabit Ethernet in Modern Network Architectures

The category of 25 Gigabit Ethernet expansion modules has gained prominence as enterprises transition away from legacy 10 Gigabit uplinks toward higher-speed aggregation. The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE aligns with this architectural evolution by offering four SFP28 ports capable of 25GE connectivity. This throughput level provides a practical balance between performance and cost efficiency, making it suitable for access-to-aggregation uplinks, data center edge connectivity, and high-capacity inter-switch links.

In contemporary network designs, 25GE has become a preferred standard due to its compatibility with existing fiber infrastructure and its efficiency compared to 40GE alternatives. Expansion modules in this category are frequently deployed to support wireless access point backhaul, high-density virtualization clusters, and latency-sensitive applications. The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE category supports these scenarios by delivering predictable throughput, low latency forwarding, and tight integration with Extreme Networks switching silicon.

Optimizing Bandwidth Utilization Across the Network

This category emphasizes intelligent bandwidth utilization rather than raw port count alone. The four-port SFP28 configuration enables network architects to design uplink strategies that minimize oversubscription while maintaining flexibility. Each 25GE interface can be allocated to critical traffic paths, ensuring that bandwidth-intensive workloads such as video collaboration, analytics, and cloud application access receive consistent performance.

By belonging to a category specifically engineered for the Extreme 5520 platform, the 5520-VIM-4YE ensures that bandwidth allocation is handled efficiently at the hardware level. This results in improved forwarding performance and reduced bottlenecks, particularly in environments where east-west traffic patterns dominate. The category therefore appeals to organizations seeking to modernize their networks without introducing unnecessary complexity.

MACsec-Enabled Security Expansion Category

One of the defining characteristics of the Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE category is its support for MACsec, or Media Access Control Security. This capability elevates the expansion module beyond basic connectivity, positioning it as a security-focused networking component. MACsec provides line-rate encryption and authentication for Ethernet links, protecting data in motion from interception, tampering, and replay attacks.

In sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and education, securing data at the network layer is a critical requirement. Expansion modules within this category enable organizations to extend encrypted connectivity across campus backbones, building interconnects, and data center access layers without relying solely on higher-layer security mechanisms. The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE category integrates MACsec directly into the hardware, ensuring minimal performance impact while maintaining compliance with stringent security standards.

Hardware-Based Encryption for High-Speed Links

Unlike software-based encryption approaches that can introduce latency and consume CPU resources, this category leverages dedicated hardware engines to perform MACsec operations. The result is consistent throughput even under full encryption load. For environments where uptime and performance are mission critical, this hardware-based approach ensures that security enhancements do not compromise user experience or application responsiveness.

The inclusion of MACsec within this expansion module category also simplifies network design. Administrators can enforce encryption policies at the switch level, reducing the need for external appliances or complex overlay configurations. This streamlined approach aligns with modern zero trust networking principles, where security is embedded throughout the infrastructure rather than bolted on as an afterthought.

Integration with Extreme Networks 5520 Series Switching Platform

The Extreme Networks 5520-VIM-4YE belongs to a tightly integrated category of modules designed exclusively for the 5520 Series switches. This integration ensures mechanical compatibility, firmware alignment, and management consistency across the switching platform. By adhering to Extreme Networks design standards, the module category enables hot-swappable installation and seamless recognition by the switch operating system.

This level of integration is particularly valuable in enterprise environments where downtime must be minimized. Expansion modules in this category can be deployed or upgraded without disrupting existing network services. The Extreme 5520 Series architecture recognizes the module automatically, enabling administrators to configure interfaces and security settings through familiar management tools.

Fabric-Ready and Cloud-Managed Compatibility

As part of the Extreme Networks ecosystem, the 5520-VIM-4YE category supports fabric-based networking and centralized management. When deployed in Fabric Connect or fabric-enabled environments, the module contributes to simplified provisioning and automated traffic segmentation. This capability is essential for organizations adopting software-defined networking models to improve agility and reduce operational overhead.

The category is also aligned with ExtremeCloud IQ and other management platforms, allowing administrators to monitor port utilization, encryption status, and link health from a single pane of glass. This unified management approach enhances visibility and accelerates troubleshooting, making the expansion module category suitable for both large-scale enterprises and distributed campus deployments.

Positioning Within the Extreme Networks Portfolio

Within the broader Extreme Networks product portfolio, the 5520-VIM-4YE category occupies a strategic position. It complements fixed-port switches, wireless solutions, and fabric technologies by providing a high-speed, secure expansion option tailored to the 5520 Series. This alignment ensures consistency across the network stack and simplifies procurement and lifecycle management.

For organizations standardizing on Extreme Networks infrastructure, this category represents a natural extension of existing capabilities. It reinforces the vendor’s approach to modular, software-driven networking while addressing the practical needs of bandwidth scalability and link-level security.