KVM: keyboard, video and mouse
KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, Mouse. A KVM switch shares one keyboard, monitor and mouse between multiple computers. It routes video from the selected computer to the monitor and directs keyboard and mouse input back to that computer. Computer, monitor and USB connection counts depend on the model.
A USB switch that only changes keyboard and mouse connections is different from a KVM switch that also carries video. Likewise, a local KVM device without IP access does not by itself provide remote management over the internet.
Local KVM switches, KVM over IP and IP-KVM gateways
| Requirement | Solution to evaluate |
|---|---|
| Switching between two or more computers at one desk | Local KVM switch with the required computer and display ports |
| Viewing and operating a distant computer over a network | KVM over IP; single-port or multi-port depending on the model |
| Remote access to one industrial computer through HDMI and USB | An IP-KVM gateway such as QuickDesk Pro, subject to connection requirements |
KVM over IP does not imply multiple computer ports. QuickDesk Pro is presented here as a remote access device connected to the target computer through HDMI and USB. Whether it fits a requirement originally described as a multi-port KVM switch needs a separate review of the connections and use case.
What should you check before choosing a KVM switch?
- Computer and display count: how many computers will be selected, and is one or more than one monitor required?
- Video connection: HDMI, DisplayPort or VGA, with resolution and refresh rate supported by the selected model.
- USB requirements: will peripherals or virtual media be used in addition to keyboard and mouse?
- Access path: is access required in the same room, over the local network or from another location?
- Authorisation: user access, network segmentation and logging requirements should be reviewed against the organisation’s security policy.
Compare prices between models that meet the same requirements. A local two-port device and a device providing remote BIOS access and virtual media may address different needs.
Remote KVM for SCADA and industrial computers
Software remote desktop may be unavailable when the operating system on a SCADA/HMI or engineering computer fails to boot. QuickDesk Pro receives the target computer’s HDMI video and sends keyboard and mouse input over USB. A suitable setup can therefore provide access to BIOS/UEFI and recovery screens.
Operating requirement: The target computer must have power and produce HDMI video. USB, the QuickDesk network connection and access configuration must be available. A KVM device does not repair a failed motherboard or power supply. Remote PLC maintenance is also separate from viewing a computer screen.
Read about KVM over IP access to SCADA computers. For control software, see our PLC and SCADA automation services .
Common KVM questions
Is a KVM switch the same as an Ethernet switch?
No. KVM manages video, keyboard and mouse access. An Ethernet switch carries data between devices on a network. An IP-KVM setup may use network infrastructure, but the two devices do not replace each other. Explore NETGEAR network switches.
Does every KVM device support BIOS access or ISO mounting?
No. BIOS access requires video and USB to work during startup. Virtual media/ISO mounting is a separate device capability. The QuickDesk Pro product page explains its connection requirements and virtual USB features.
Technical reading: ATEN KVM · QuickDesk Pro datasheet. General terminology does not imply identical features across all brands and models.