Basics of KVM Switch

KVM Switch

KVM is a hardware device in computer world and is stands for Keyboard, Video (monitor) and Mouse. It allows to use multiple computers or systems or servers in one keyboard, video, and mouse to control and switch between them. The KVM is also called as Console.

Normally this is used where there lots of servers available such as data centre or large infrastructure, WAN environment. The KVM switch then allows data center personnel to connect to any server in the rack.

A KVM allows for switching with the correct signals every time through the use of signal emulation technology. 

As per study high performance KVM solutions offer maximum security, flexibility and reliability for your network. From a single screen, keyboard and mouse, you can access all your computers no matter where they are located whether in another room or building. You can switch promptly between applications and carry out several functions in quick sequence with no delay. Traditional switching configurations range from 2 to 64 possible computers attached to a single device. 

There are two types of KVM available such as local remote KVM and KVM over IP.

Local remote KVM device allows users to control computer equipment up to approximate 1,000 feet away from the user consoles (keyboard, monitor and mouse). It includes standard cat5 cables and usb cables for connectivity.

KVM over IP delivers better content faster for a range of applications, including broadcasting and control rooms. It uses a dedicated micro-controller and specialized video capture hardware to capture the video, keyboard, and mouse signals. The it compresses and converts them into packets, and sends them over an Ethernet link to a remote console application.

Below are advantages to consider using KVM.

• Multiple computer or server control in a network.
• Not required to invest in extra computer equipment and that helps save money.
• It helps to keep your space less use.
• Some KVM switches support USB peripherals, for example, eliminating the need for separate USB hub.
• Remotely access and control computers and servers.
• Gain network flexibility.

So, a KVM switch is to reduce the pain, complexity, vulnerability and cost of IT environments.

-DR