Networking technology is taking a step forward today with Killer's forthcoming Killer E3000 – a new network controller for desktops computers, laptop PCs, and motherboards. Used by gaming companies like Dell/Alienware, Acer and others the Killer chip helps prioritize data for gamers and streamers making sure sub-processes don't hog it all.
The big news with the E3000 is it hits a steady 2.5 Gbps throughput, which adds a bit of futureproofing for home networks that are just now getting to 1+ Gbps data pipes. Router manufacturers are already positioning hardware with support for 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports with next-gen Wi-Fi 6/11ax.
Like previous Killer network cards, the E3000 supports DoubleShot Pro which lets users connect multiple broadband networks at the same over Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Software support for prioritization is handled by the just updated Killer Control Center 2.0. According to Killer, the new Control Center 2.0 brings these two new features to consumers:
- Killer's GameFast Technology By automatically pausing processes that are not needed when gaming, Killer GameFast Technology frees up to 10 percent of CPU cycles and up to 20 percent of memory. Gamers who use GameFast will experience faster, more responsive gameplay with the additional system resources available to focus on the game.
- Killer Intelligence Engine By automatically analyzing the PC's network health and optimizing Killer settings, the Killer Intelligence Engine can improve network performance ensuring a fast, smooth online experience. In addition, when Killer can't optimize networking automatically, the Killer Intelligence Engine will recommend ways to improve the PC's network health for better application and gaming experiences.
The Killer Intelligence Engine helps take the sting out of network optimization by non-pro gamers or tech neophytes who want strong performance, but little hassle. The engine can tune your network settings for the best optimization of data but can also recommend ways to improve your PC's network health. The app will give users visual feedback on those changes including what actions the Killer Intelligence Engine took and suggests steps for the user.
GameFast Technology is like what Microsoft is doing in Windows 10's Game Mode with the CPU but at a more granular level. The tech pauses unnecessary background tasks during a gaming session to ensure the full CPU cycles are devoted to gaming and not something like anti-virus scanning, updates, or other secondary tasks best suited when not trying to frag your enemy. It also lets users choose what services can be paused and automatically "knows" when a game is being played by detecting network stream activity.
Look for the Killer E3000 to launch with high-end gaming laptops from Dell Alienware and Acer Predator laptops in early 2019. Expect other companies to announce support for the E3000 in motherboards, routers, and other gaming laptops this year as well.
Daniel Rubino is the Executive Editor of Windows Central, head reviewer, podcast co-host, and analyst. He has been covering Microsoft here since 2007, back when this site was called WMExperts (and later Windows Phone Central). His interests include Windows, Microsoft Surface, laptops, next-gen computing, and arguing with people on the internet.
