Ibm 44W4406 110 Gb 6 Port Uplink Enet Switch Module

How Much Does IBM 44W4406 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module Cost in 2026?

As of July 2026, the IBM 44W4406 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module is typically listed in the used/refurbished market for $115. This price is for a module in condition grade B, which means it has been tested and may show signs of wear but functions reliably. If you're looking for a higher-grade unit (A or A+), expect to pay between $135 and $150, depending on the vendor and the module’s age and usage history.

Refurbished units from trusted vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology are often priced in this range, offering 40–60% savings compared to new units, which can exceed $275. The cost of failure is significant: if a used module fails in the field, it can lead to 4–6 hours of downtime, costing a data center an estimated $1,200–$2,000 in lost productivity and emergency labor. Modules over 10 years old are more likely to fail, so always verify the unit's service history and test logs before purchase.

IBM 44W4406 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module Specifications and Compatible Tools

The IBM 44W4406 is a 1/10 GB Ethernet switch module with six uplink ports, commonly used in IBM storage systems and blade servers from the early 2010s. It supports full-duplex communication and typically operates at 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds. The module is designed for hot-swapping and typically has a service life of 8–10 years, with a typical RF-hour rating of 10,000–12,000 hours under normal operating conditions.

This module is compatible with IBM BladeCenter systems and certain IBM System Storage models produced between 2010 and 2014. It is not compatible with the IBM 44W4408 module, which has a different port configuration and power requirement. Using an incompatible module can result in system instability or boot failure, which may require a full rack reboot and extended troubleshooting time—costing up to $1,500 in labor and downtime.

Always verify the exact model and production year of your system before installation. Use the IBM PartSearch tool or contact IBM support for compatibility confirmation.

What to Check Before Buying a Used IBM 44W4406 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module in 2026

1. Verify the Production Year: Modules produced before 2012 are more likely to have capacitor degradation. Reject any unit older than 2010.

2. Check for Physical Damage: Look for bent connectors, corrosion, or burn marks. A damaged port can lead to signal loss and require a full switch replacement, costing $300–$500.

3. Run a Loopback Test: Use a loopback plug to test all six ports. A failed port may indicate a larger internal fault, increasing the risk of failure within 3–6 months.

4. Review Test Logs: Ask the seller for a recent functional test log. Units without logs should be rejected. A failed test can lead to 4–6 hours of downtime during installation.

5. Confirm Compatibility: Cross-reference the module with your IBM system’s model and firmware version. Installing an incompatible module can cause boot failure and require a full rack reboot, costing $1,500 in downtime and labor.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the IBM 44W4406 in a newer IBM system from 2018?
A: No. The 44W4406 is not compatible with systems produced after 2014. Newer systems typically use the 44W4408 or 44W4410 modules, which have different power and port requirements.

Q: Should I buy a used IBM 44W4406 if it has a 2010 production date?
A: Only if it has less than 8,000 RF-hours and a recent test log. Modules from 2010 are now 16 years old and have a higher risk of capacitor or power supply failure, which can cost $400–$600 to repair.

Q: How long can I expect a used IBM 44W4406 to last?
A: With proper maintenance and under normal conditions, a used 44W4406 can last 3–5 more years. Modules with over 12,000 RF-hours should be replaced to avoid unexpected failure, which can cost $1,200 in downtime and repair.

Q: What’s the difference between the IBM 44W4406 and 44W4408?
A: The 44W4408 has 8 ports and a different power requirement. The 44W4406 is limited to 6 ports and cannot be used as a direct replacement. Using the wrong module can lead to system instability or boot failure.

Q: What’s the most common failure point in the IBM 44W4406?
A: The power supply and capacitors are the most common failure points. Units over 10 years old should be tested for capacitor leakage, which can cause a complete module failure and require a $300–$500 replacement.