5 Things To Consider When Choosing a KVM Switch

KVM switches are devices that allow you to control multiple computers from the same setup. 

They connect to your keyboard, mouse, and monitor, then also connect to several different computers. With the push of a button, you are able to switch between the different computers and control them from the same monitor.

The rest of this article will teach you about the 5 most important features to consider when purchasing a KVM switch.

1. How Many Computers?

The first question to ask yourself when picking out your KVM switch is how many computers you need to control with it. You’ll need one port per device that you want to connect to your KVM switch.

Most models only come with up to 64 connections. However, you can find some professional-grade models that can connect with closer to 1,000 individual PCs and devices.

2. Hardware or Software?

There are two main categories of KVM switches available on the market: hardware switches and software switches.

Hardware switches are physical devices that require each device it powers to be individually plugged into the switch. The largest KVM switches have 64 ports and are almost exclusively used by large corporations. The benefit of these devices is that since they are external devices, they don’t require significant programming.

In contrast, software switches are programs that you can download to your computer. These programs are mainly used to allow you to control another computer or monitor from a distance. This would make it so that your mouse and keyboard are the ones controlling the computer.

Their capabilities are more limited, but they are a great choice for individuals who only foresee remotely controlling a computer on the occasion and don’t want to invest in a separate device to do so.

3. Distance

If you are using a hardware KVM switch, you’ll need to consider what it uses to make its connection. The connection that it uses will determine how large of a distance it can be used over.

If the distance that you need to control the computer over is less than 25 feet, you should be able to use a basic standard cable kit. This will allow you to connect to the device and control it remotely, but it will not allow you to connect over great distances. For longer distances, you will need a kit with Cat5 cabling.

Cat5 cabling is capable of connecting over distances of up to 100 feet. This makes it a better option for situations where you need to connect to a device that is a farther distance away.

4. Connections

When you purchase a KVM switch kit, make sure that the type of cabling it comes with is compatible with both your monitor and the computer you’re controlling.

KVM switch kits can come with various types of cabling including USB, HDMI, VGA, and Cat5 for long distances. If your computer and display are only compatible with certain types of cabling, make sure that you pick a kit that comes with that cabling.

If you don’t, or if you can’t find a kit with the correct cabling, you can also purchase a converter. This will allow you to switch the cabling from one type to another that way it can connect to both devices.

5. Device Compatibility 

One last thing to factor in when picking your KVM switch is its compatibility with your computer. 

You will need to ensure that your KVM switch is compatible with the display that you want to control it from. Not every KVM switch is compatible with every type of monitor. If you have an HDMI monitor you’ll need to make sure that your switch is capable of working with an HDMI setup. If it isn’t, you won’t be able to use your switch for that display.

The best thing that you can do is try to purchase a KVM switch that is compatible with as many systems as possible. That way, if at some point you decide to switch monitors, you can continue using the same switch and you won’t have to make a new purchase.

Key Takeaways

KVM switches are useful devices in situations where you need to control multiple computers but don’t want to switch monitor setups every time you do so.

The most important factors to consider when selecting a KVM switch are the number of computers you’re controlling, hardware vs. software, the distance, types of connections, and device compatibility.

Before you go to purchase your KVM switch make sure you know what you’re looking for in each of these categories. That way, you’ll be able to purchase a KVM switch that meets all of your needs.