Dell 2950 Linux Debian Boradcom NIC driver nightmare

rastmp · 09-19-2009, 08:49 AM

Hello,
Newbie here...

I am installing Linux Debian on DELL PE 2950 ...
All is fine except the NIC driver..

Lenny finds all hardware except the driver
Kernel 2.6.26
Error:
bnx2 cant load firmware bnx2-06-4.0.5.fw

The NIC is a Broadcomm BCM 5708c Netextreme 2 GibBit...

LSPCI shows the NIC as tha above...

Please keep in mind I am new to Linux/Unix...

Can someone guide me through the proper setup process?

I downloaded the Linus Broadcom drivers and put them on the server with Debian installed fully except the NIC driver..

Please help...

Thanks in advance

r3sistance · 09-19-2009, 09:24 AM

This sounds strange, I have installed Debian on Dell R200s and fairly sure they use the same Network Cards as the PE2950s (only ever really installed CentOS, RHEL and windows on a 2950). I thought Debian came with this broadcom driver, however as far as I can see their are no drivers supplied for Debian on support.dell.com I know the Dell 2950s are being phased out by Dell and being replaced by their new R710s...

I am guessing the drivers you got were form this page, the generic Linux ones? http://www.broadcom.com/support/ethe...etxtremeii.php

rastmp · 09-19-2009, 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by r3sistance

This sounds strange, I have installed Debian on Dell R200s and fairly sure they use the same Network Cards as the PE2950s (only ever really installed CentOS, RHEL and windows on a 2950). I thought Debian came with this broadcom driver, however as far as I can see their are no drivers supplied for Debian on support.dell.com I know the Dell 2950s are being phased out by Dell and being replaced by their new R710s...

I am guessing the drivers you got were form this page, the generic Linux ones? http://www.broadcom.com/support/ethe...etxtremeii.php

Thanks....I did get the drivers from the link...

Can anyone walk me through the correct syntax to update the driver?

Thanks