Yes, a 2.5GB PCIe card can support a gigabit connection.
Yes, a 2.5GB PCIe card can support a gigabit connection.
I've noticed that since getting my gigabit connection, my speeds have consistently reached around 115 Mbps, which is well above 100. This suggests the upgrade has improved performance. Previously, with fiber in my old home, speeds were closer to 95 Mbps. It seems the change has indeed boosted my internet speed more often.
Link aggregation functions only when both ends support it. You’d likely need a duel gigabit NIC with aggregation and two cables to your PC—though Windows can be tricky with this feature. Alternatively, use a 2.5Gb switch that also supports aggregation along with a matching 2.5Gb NIC. Once set up, the dual uplinks become available on the switch’s extra ports. I wouldn’t recommend chasing extra bandwidth just for minor gains; it often adds little value beyond what you already have. If you had a 2Gb connection, it might make sense, but not for the slight over-provisioning they provide above 1Gb. Personally, I’d prefer knowing my home network stays robust even when others are streaming. The router should be able to distribute the full bandwidth evenly across all devices.