KVM Switch With Ethernet

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M

Mcintosh85

PCHF Member
Jul 21, 2024
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Hi,

I'm new to the forum, and hoping this is the correct place for this question.

I am trying to find the best solution for using 2 laptops with peripherals, but also with Ethernet connection.

I would like the internet (ethernet) to work on both laptops simultaneously, but the other peripherals (monitor, mouse etc) only when switched.

Is this possible with a KVM switch? If yes, any recommendations? If no, what is the best solution for this? To minimise cables/clutter.

Thanks in advance.
 
Select the Right KVM Switch:

Choose a KVM switch that supports your desired number of computers (in this case, two laptops).
Ensure that the KVM switch has USB ports for keyboard and mouse connections and HDMI or DisplayPort for video output.
Note that most basic KVM switches do not handle Ethernet connections; they focus on video and input devices.

Network Configuration:

To allow both laptops to have internet access simultaneously, you will need to connect them to a network router or switch directly via Ethernet cables.
This means each laptop should be connected to the router independently of the KVM switch.

Unmanaged Switches:

These are plug-and-play devices that require no configuration. They are ideal for home networks or small offices where simplicity is key.
The D-Link 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Metal Compact Switch (DGS-108GL) offers easy setup and reliable performance at an affordable price


Connecting Peripherals:

Connect your keyboard and mouse to the USB ports on the KVM switch.
Connect your monitor(s) to the appropriate video output ports on the KVM switch.
The KVM switch will allow you to toggle between which laptop is using these peripherals.


Switching Peripherals:

When you want to use the monitor and input devices with one laptop over another, simply toggle the KVM switch.
This action will redirect control of those peripherals from one laptop to another without affecting their internet connectivity.
Based on these criteria, here are some recommended models:

IOGEAR GCS62HU
  • Supports 2 computers
  • Has USB ports for keyboard and mouse
  • Offers HDMI video output
  • Supports resolutions up to 1080p
ATEN CS22U
  • Supports 2 computers
  • Includes USB ports for peripherals
  • Provides HDMI output
  • Compact design with easy switching via buttons
TRENDnet TK-215i
  • Connects 2 computers
  • Features USB ports for keyboard/mouse
  • Offers HDMI connectivity
  • Supports resolutions up to 1920x1080
 
Malnutrition said:
Select the Right KVM Switch:

Choose a KVM switch that supports your desired number of computers (in this case, two laptops).
Ensure that the KVM switch has USB ports for keyboard and mouse connections and HDMI or DisplayPort for video output.
Note that most basic KVM switches do not handle Ethernet connections; they focus on video and input devices.

Network Configuration:

To allow both laptops to have internet access simultaneously, you will need to connect them to a network router or switch directly via Ethernet cables.
This means each laptop should be connected to the router independently of the KVM switch.

Unmanaged Switches:

These are plug-and-play devices that require no configuration. They are ideal for home networks or small offices where simplicity is key.
The D-Link 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Metal Compact Switch (DGS-108GL) offers easy setup and reliable performance at an affordable price


Connecting Peripherals:

Connect your keyboard and mouse to the USB ports on the KVM switch.
Connect your monitor(s) to the appropriate video output ports on the KVM switch.
The KVM switch will allow you to toggle between which laptop is using these peripherals.


Switching Peripherals:

When you want to use the monitor and input devices with one laptop over another, simply toggle the KVM switch.
This action will redirect control of those peripherals from one laptop to another without affecting their internet connectivity.
Based on these criteria, here are some recommended models:

IOGEAR GCS62HU
  • Supports 2 computers
  • Has USB ports for keyboard and mouse
  • Offers HDMI video output
  • Supports resolutions up to 1080p
ATEN CS22U
  • Supports 2 computers
  • Includes USB ports for peripherals
  • Provides HDMI output
  • Compact design with easy switching via buttons
TRENDnet TK-215i
  • Connects 2 computers
  • Features USB ports for keyboard/mouse
  • Offers HDMI connectivity
  • Supports resolutions up to 1920x1080
Click to expand...
Thanks for the reply.

So there is no way to minimise the cables for ethernet? What you are suggesting is effectively connecting both laptops to the network with their own ethernet cable.
 
Yes - both laptops to the network with their own ethernet cables.
If you want to get rid of those cables, you'd be looking at a wireless solution.
Then you would replace the network switch with a wireless access point. Most likely you already have wireless capability on your current modem/router.
 
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Separate Power and Data Cables: Keeping these two types of cables apart minimizes interference and improves performance.

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Zyyini KVM Switch​


Supports resolutions up to 4K 60Hz.
Plug-and-play functionality with no drivers required.
Easy switching between computers using a button.
Dual color LEDs indicate the active computer.

iDock C20​


Supports dual HDMI outputs with up to 4K resolution at 60Hz.
Includes a dedicated Ethernet port for network connectivity.
Multiple USB ports for connecting peripherals like keyboards and mice.
 
Last edited:
I love the cable spiral wrap, comes in black or clear, cut it to whatever length you want.
The braided stuff is great but threading the cables through is painful.
1721598943043.jpeg
 
Bruce said:
The braided stuff is great but threading the cables through is painful.
Click to expand...


Old Fishing pole, no eyes. Duct tape to secure wires to end of pole after you feed pole thru mesh. Pull it thru like a hot knife thru butter.
 
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Closing – no response.
To request a re-open, go to Members > Staff Members, click a Staffer then Start Conversation and quote thread name.
 
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