Tired of cluttered desktops and tangled cables? Streamlining your workspace can make a huge difference in improving productivity and reducing stress. One essential tool that can help you achieve that is a KVM switch!
What is a KVM?
KVM is a hardware device that stands for “keyboard, video, mouse”. With a KVM switch, you can consolidate multiple computers or servers into a single workspace, simplifying your setup and maximizing efficiency. By connecting all your devices to a single keyboard, video display, and mouse, you can seamlessly switch between them with a press of a button.
KVM switches are typically used to manage servers in a rack, but they can also be used for home offices, small businesses, data centers, manufacturing facilities, server rooms, and network closets. This is particularly beneficial for companies seeking space-saving, easy-to-use, and cost-effective options for their work environments.
How Does a KVM Switch Work?
By using a KVM switch, you will be able to connect, switch, and support multiple devices simultaneously.
Connect Devices
First, the PCs and servers that users want to control are connected to the KVM switch via network cabling or special KVM cable kits. The user then directly connects the keyboard, mouse, and video to the KVM switch ports. For HD environments, other devices and USB devices can be connected to the KVM switch using video and USB cables.
Switch Devices
Second, the user transitions between devices by pushing a button on the KVM switch, pressing a hotkey on their keyboard, clicking the mouse wheel, or utilizing a screen-based display program. Certain KVM switches are also equipped to automatically identify a newly attached system and switch control over to it.
Support Multiple Devices
And third, a KVM switch accommodates various quantities of devices, ranging from a few to hundreds. Additionally, certain KVM switches are equipped to handle multiple monitors, enabling users to connect several displays and switch between various computers on different screens.
Top 5 KVM Switch Features
Now that you know how it works, here are the top 5 KVM switch features:
- Multiple PC and Server Access – You will be able to access and control multiple PCs and servers from a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse console.
- Password Protection – KVMs provides multi-level password protection and advanced encryption to keep your network connections secure.
- Multi-User Support – For multiple user groups, remote authentication and access rights management facilitate secure access. Additionally, the detailed activity logging provides an audit trail for regulatory compliance.
- Control Over 1,000 Computers – Consolidating your server access through a single console helps to eliminate the cost of additional workstations and the energy, space and resources required to support them.
- Choose from a Variety of Configurations – Depending on your configurations, you can select from desktop models that simplify access to multiple devices to more advanced rack-mount models. This allows you to manage many more network servers for your business.
Types of KVM Switches
- Desktop KVM Switches
- Rack Console KVM Switches
- Rack Consoles (No KVM Switch)
- Rack-Mount KVM Switches
- IP Remote Access KVM Switches
- NIAP KVM Switches
- Cat5 KVM Switches
Benefits of Using KVM Switches
Furthermore, the key benefits of using KVM switches include:
Reduce Clutter and Save Space
A single KVM controls multiple computers, which significantly reduces the number of peripherals on your desk, therefore reducing clutter. For businesses that want efficient use of space, KVMs are useful in environments like data centers and server rooms where space is limited.
Cost Savings
When removing the need for multiple keyboards, monitors and mice, KVM switches reduce a user’s average spending on input devices. This helps to lower hardware costs and reduce energy consumption as well.
Improved Productivity and Efficiency
For efficient multitasking, KVMs provide quick and easy switching between computers. KVMs also simplifies the management of multiple systems, which is useful for IT administrators and developers. By controlling multiple devices with a single set of input devices, KVM switches save time, create efficiency, and increase productivity.
Enhanced IT Management
KVM switches allow for centralized monitoring, which means that it makes it easier for IT professionals to manage multiple computers from a single console, leading them to troubleshoot issues faster. IP KVM switches also allow for remote management of servers and computers. This enables troubleshooting and maintenance to be done from any location.
Flexibility
Most KVM switches support additional peripherals such as printers and external storage devices. Some KVM models also switch audio signals, allowing for shared use of speakers and microphones. As a result, peripheral sharing and audio support increases flexibility.
Scalability
KVM switches come in various sizes and capacities, from simple two-port switches to complex systems. Additionally, multiple KVM switches can be connected together to expand the number of manageable computers.
Security
Since users are able to control multiple computers without having to physically move between them, KVM switches reduce the risks of unauthorized access to sensitive information. Advanced KVM switches may also include features like user authentication to enhance security.
Simplified Maintenance
Lastly, KVMS allow for streamlined cabling and configuration processes, making it easier to set up and maintain. Whether used in an office or server room environment, KVM switches are designed to improve business workflows.
RackSolutions KVM and Monitor Mounts
From improved workflow to increased convenience, there are many benefits when utilizing KVM switches to take your productivity to new heights. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to a streamlined workspace! To help with your setup, RackSolutions provides a variety of KVM and Monitor Mounts.
Our rack mounted KVMs provide easy access to your equipment while it’s mounted in a server rack or cabinet. Instead of using a crash cart, a KVM that is directly attached to a server rack will prevent accidental damage and ensure that it will be secured in place. You can position the KVM at a comfortable height when sitting or standing. This is beneficial for those who need to spend an extended amount of time working on a server to get it up and working properly again. Rather than a traditional mouse, a KVM also uses a space saving trackpad to avoid excess movements.
To contact our Sales and Technical Support, please email info@racksolutions.com for further assistance or questions on our KVM products. With our high-quality, in house manufacturing, we’ll help you find exactly what you need and get it to you fast!