Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) Switch

A KVM switch is a hardware device that allows server administrators to control multiple computers from a single keyboard, video display monitor, and mouse. A KVM system allows for management, monitoring, and control of an Enterprise Environment from a central location. This device is particularly useful in data centres that have multiple servers and computers in a single server rack. Data Center personnel can quickly connect to any server in the rack through a KVM switch allowing them to control multiple computers from a single device. They also allow you to switch audio and USB devices (printers for example) between the different computers.

Types of KVM Switches
Machines near a KVM switch can be directly connected. Machines can also be connected over a network using KVM over IP. This method allows for the administration of a Global Enterprise Environment over the company’s private network. Control of different computers is switched by a button, On-Screen Display (OSD) controls found on a console screen, switch keys, or hotkeys.

There are several types of KVM switches, including:
• Standard Box Switches
• Cable KVM Switches
• Multi-Monitor KVM Switches
• Internet Protocol (IP) KVM Switches

KVM switches can range from 2 to 32 ports for standard box switches. Anything beyond 32 ports requires specialized equipment.