A KVM switch lets one keyboard, video display and mouse control multiple computers. Choose desktop KVMs for desks, rackmount KVMs for server racks, extenders for distance and KVM over IP for remote access. This guide is from UBM (Universal Business Machines), a Mumbai-based pro AV distributor since 1997.
KVM stands for keyboard, video and mouse. A KVM switch lets one person control several computers from a single workstation, saving space, cost and time in control rooms, data centres and broadcast suites.
Types of KVM switches
- Desktop KVM, switch between two to eight PCs at a desk.
- Rackmount KVM, manage many servers from a console drawer in a rack.
- KVM extenders, place the user far from noisy, hot equipment rooms.
- KVM over IP, control computers remotely over a network, from anywhere.
- Matrix KVM, multiple users accessing multiple computers at once, common in control rooms.
How to choose
- Number of computers and users you need to support.
- Video resolution, 4K and multi-display support for modern workstations.
- Distance between users and computers.
- Security, some environments require secure, isolated switching.
- Remote access needs.
Start from the workflow: who needs to control which computers, from where, and at what resolution.
How UBM helps
UBM supplies ATEN KVM, KVM over IP, USB and connectivity products to dealers, integrators and enterprises. Explore ATEN solutions.
Pro AV system designers and product specialists at Universal Business Machines, Mumbai, advising Indian schools, offices and venues since 1997. Reviewed for technical accuracy before publishing. Published 2026-10-02, last reviewed 2026-10-20. How we write and review guides.
FAQs
What does a KVM switch do?
It lets a single keyboard, monitor and mouse control multiple computers.
What is KVM over IP?
KVM over IP allows users to access and control computers remotely over a network instead of being physically present.