Prepare for installation

Last published : Oct 01, 2026
Note:
This section does not apply to the MPX 9200 and MPX 17000 platforms. For information specific to the MPX 9200 platform, see NetScaler MPX 9200. For information specific to the MPX 17000 platform, see NetScaler MPX 17000.
Before you install your new appliance, carefully unpack your appliance and make sure that all parts were delivered. Verify that the location where the appliance is to be installed meets temperature and power requirements. Also verify that the server cabinet or floor-to-ceiling cabinet is securely bolted to the floor and has sufficient airflow.
Note: On all appliances, the air flows from front to rear.
Only trained and qualified personnel must install, maintain, or replace the appliance. Ensure that all cautions and warnings are followed.

Unpack the appliance

The hardware accessories for your particular appliance, such as cables, adapters, and rail kit, vary depending on the hardware platform you ordered. Unpack the box that contains your new appliance on a sturdy table with plenty of space, and inspect the contents.
Verify that you received the cables, adapter, and rail kits specified for your appliance.
Note
Make sure that a power outlet is available for each cable.
If the kit that you received does not fit your rack, contact your NetScaler® sales representative to order the appropriate kit.
Transceiver modules are sold separately. Contact your NetScaler sales representative to order transceiver modules for your appliance. Only transceivers supplied by Citrix® are supported on the appliance.
For Brazilian customers, NetScaler does not ship a power cable. Use a cable that conforms to the ABNT NBR 14136:2002 standard.
In addition to the items included in the box with your new appliance, you need the following items to complete the installation and initial configuration process.
  • Ethernet cables for each additional Ethernet port that you connect to your network.
  • One available Ethernet port on your network switch or hub for each NetScaler Ethernet port you want to connect to your network.
  • A computer to serve as a management workstation.

Prepare the site and rack

There are specific site and rack requirements for the NetScaler appliance. Make sure that adequate environmental control and power density are available. Racks must be bolted to the ground, have sufficient airflow, and have adequate power and network connections. Preparing the site and rack are important steps in the installation process and help ensure a smooth installation.

Site requirements

The appliance must be installed in a server room or server cabinet with the following features:
  • Environment control
    An air conditioner, preferably a dedicated computer room air conditioner (CRAC), capable of maintaining the cabinet or server room at a temperature of no more than 27 degrees C/80.6 degrees F at altitudes of up to 2100 m/7000 ft, or 18 degrees C/64.4 degrees F at higher altitudes, a humidity level no greater than 45 percent, and a dust-free environment.
  • Power density
    Wiring capable of handling at least 4000 watts per rack unit in addition to power needs for the CRAC.

Rack requirements

The rack on which you install your appliance must meet the following criteria:
  • Rack characteristics:
    Racks must be either integrated into a purpose-designed server cabinet or be the floor-to-ceiling type, bolted down at both top and bottom to ensure stability. If you have a cabinet, it must be installed perpendicular to a load-bearing wall for stability and sufficient airflow. If you have a server room, your racks must be installed in rows spaced at least 1 meter/3 feet apart for sufficient airflow. Your rack must allow your IT personnel unfettered access to the front and back of each server and to all power and network connections.
  • Power connections:
    At minimum, two standard power outlets per unit.
  • Network connections:
    At minimum, four Ethernet connections per rack unit.
  • Space requirements:
    One empty for the 1U models and two consecutive empty rack units for all other appliance models.
Note: You can order the following rail kits separately.
  • Compact 4-post rail kit, which fits racks of 23–33 inches.
  • 2-post rail kit, which fits 2-post racks.
Important:
See Safety, cautions, warnings, and other information for detailed electrical, appliance, and rack safety precautions.