5720-VIM-2CE Extreme Networks QSFP28 2 Ports 100GBE MACSEC 5720 Versatile Interface Network Module

Extreme Networks 2 Ports Network Module

The Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE is a high-performance versatile interface module engineered to deliver secure, scalable, and ultra-fast connectivity for enterprise-grade networking environments.

General Information

• Brand: Extreme Networks
• Model Number: 5720-VIM-2CE
• Category: Advanced Network Expansion Module

Technical Specifications

Port Configuration

• 2 x QSFP28 interfaces supporting 100GbE
• Flexible channelization options

Port Partitioning Capabilities

• 1 x 40Gb channel
• 4 x 25Gb channels
• 4 x 10Gb channels

Security Features

• Integrated MACsec encryption
• Supports 128-bit and 256-bit hardware-based link protection

Compatibility

• Optimized for VIM slots in 5720-24MW, 24MXW, 48MW, and 48MXW switches
• Seamless integration with Extreme Networks 5720 series

Operational Speeds

• 10Gbps
• 25Gbps
• 40Gbps
• 100Gbps
• Note: 1Gbps not supported

Physical Attributes

• Weight: ~0.22 kg (0.49 lb)
• Compact and lightweight design for easy installation

5720-VIM-2CE 2Ports 100GBE QSFP28 Network Module Overview

The Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE QSFP28 2 Ports 100GBE With MACsec Capable 5720 Versatile Interface Network Module represents a specialized category of high-performance modular networking components designed to extend the capabilities of the Extreme Networks 5720 Series switches. This category focuses on versatile interface modules that enable organizations to scale bandwidth, enhance security, and adapt their network architectures to evolving application and traffic demands. As enterprises, data centers, and service providers continue to experience exponential growth in east-west and north-south traffic, the demand for flexible, high-throughput, and secure interface modules has become central to modern network design.

Within this category, the emphasis is on modular expansion through QSFP28-based 100 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, allowing network operators to incrementally upgrade port density and performance without replacing the core switching platform. The 5720-VIM-2CE aligns with architectural principles centered on longevity, investment protection, and operational efficiency. It supports environments where agility, reliability, and security are not optional but foundational requirements.

5720 Series Versatile Interface Modules as a Category

Versatile Interface Modules, commonly referred to as VIMs, define a category of hot-swappable expansion modules that integrate directly into Extreme Networks 5720 Series switches. This category is engineered to support a broad range of interface types while maintaining a unified hardware and software ecosystem. The 5720-VIM-2CE occupies a specialized position within this category by delivering ultra-high-speed 100GBE connectivity combined with hardware-based MACsec encryption.

The modular nature of this category allows organizations to deploy a consistent switching platform across multiple network tiers while customizing port capabilities based on role-specific requirements. Data aggregation layers, spine-leaf architectures, core switching environments, and high-performance edge deployments can all benefit from the adaptability provided by 5720 Series VIMs. This category reflects a strategic shift away from fixed-configuration switches toward platforms that evolve alongside business and technology needs.

QSFP28 100 Gigabit Ethernet Interface Expansion

A defining characteristic of the Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE category is its reliance on QSFP28 interfaces to deliver 100 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. QSFP28 technology enables exceptionally high data rates while maintaining compact physical form factors, making it ideal for dense, high-performance switching environments. In this category, QSFP28 ports serve as the foundation for supporting large-scale data movement, low-latency communication, and high-throughput application workloads.

The presence of dual 100GBE ports within this module category allows for multiple deployment models, including high-speed uplinks, inter-switch links, and connectivity to high-performance servers or storage systems. By leveraging industry-standard QSFP28 optics and cables, this category ensures interoperability and flexibility across diverse networking ecosystems.

MACsec-Capable Hardware Security Integration

Security is a core differentiator within the Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE category, driven by integrated Media Access Control Security, or MACsec, capabilities. This category addresses the growing requirement for encryption directly at the network hardware layer, ensuring that data in motion is protected from interception, tampering, or unauthorized access. MACsec provides line-rate encryption without compromising performance, which is essential in high-speed 100GBE environments.

By incorporating MACsec support into the interface module itself, this category eliminates the need for external encryption appliances or complex overlay solutions. This approach simplifies network design while maintaining compliance with stringent regulatory and industry security standards. The result is a category of interface modules that combine performance and security into a single, cohesive solution.

Role in Modern Data Center and Enterprise Architectures

The Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE category plays a critical role in contemporary network architectures that prioritize scalability, automation, and resilience. As data centers transition toward leaf-spine topologies and distributed enterprise networks adopt higher-speed uplinks, the need for modular 100GBE connectivity becomes increasingly pronounced. This category supports these architectures by enabling seamless integration of high-speed links at aggregation and core layers.

In enterprise campus networks, this category allows IT teams to future-proof their infrastructure by deploying switches that can adapt to increasing bandwidth demands over time. Rather than overprovisioning from the outset, organizations can deploy VIMs as needed, aligning capital expenditures with actual growth. This flexibility is a defining attribute of the 5720-VIM-2CE category.

Integration with Extreme Networks Fabric and Automation Features

The category encompassing the Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE is designed to integrate seamlessly with Extreme Networks’ broader fabric-based networking and automation frameworks. These frameworks emphasize centralized management, policy-based control, and automated provisioning across the entire network. The interface module category supports these objectives by delivering consistent hardware capabilities that can be programmatically managed and monitored.

This tight integration allows network operators to treat high-speed interfaces as programmable resources rather than static ports. As a result, the category supports dynamic traffic engineering, rapid service deployment, and simplified troubleshooting, all of which contribute to reduced operational complexity.

Key Characteristics and Throughput Considerations

Performance is a central theme within the Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE category. The dual 100GBE QSFP28 ports are engineered to operate at line rate, ensuring that encryption, packet forwarding, and traffic inspection do not introduce bottlenecks. This category is optimized for environments where predictable performance and minimal latency are essential, such as financial services, healthcare, research institutions, and large-scale cloud infrastructures.

The hardware-based design of this category allows it to handle demanding workloads without placing additional strain on the host switch’s processing resources. This architectural efficiency ensures that overall system performance remains consistent even as traffic volumes increase.

Category Significance in Secure High-Speed Networking

The Extreme Networks 5720-VIM-2CE QSFP28 2 Ports 100GBE With MACsec Capable 5720 Versatile Interface Network Module defines a category that sits at the intersection of speed, security, and modularity. It addresses the practical realities of modern networking, where bandwidth demands grow rapidly and security threats continue to escalate. By delivering these capabilities within a cohesive modular framework, this category sets a benchmark for next-generation interface expansion.

For organizations seeking to balance performance, security, and operational efficiency, the 5720-VIM-2CE category offers a compelling foundation. Its design philosophy reflects an understanding of real-world networking challenges and provides a scalable, adaptable solution for today’s and tomorrow’s high-speed networks.