KVM switch selection factors

KVM is the abbreviation of Keyboard, Video, and Mouse. The core idea of ​​KVM technology is to achieve high manageability of systems and networks, improve the work efficiency of managers, save computer room space, and reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) of network server systems through the proper configuration of keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

By using a KVM host switching system, that is, using one or several sets of KVM to switch between multiple hosts with different operating systems, you can use one set of peripherals to access and operate more than one to thousands of hosts. In addition to KVM accessories, the KVM host switching system also includes switching equipment and various special connection cables. KVM helps users easily manage IDCs and has the characteristics of saving space, simple use, improving efficiency, easy management, and remote management.

In terms of functions and the number of connection ports, KVM can be divided into three categories: low-end, mid-end, and high-end. Low-end KVM is relatively simple, generally with 2 to 4 connection ports, can control at least two computers, suitable for personal and SOHO applications, lightweight and inexpensive. Mid-end KVM has about 8 to 16 ports, suitable for small businesses with less than 100 people. Mid-end KVM can work across different operating system platforms (such as PC, Mac, Sun, and Linux).

High-end KVM refers to switches with more than 32 ports, which have the characteristics of high density, high port count and multi-user simultaneous operation, and can control thousands of hosts and servers, suitable for large enterprises and IDC data centers. Most high-end KVMs can support multiple administrators, who can log in and control at the same time through passwords and verification, and can provide more complex and sophisticated functions.

When purchasing a KVM switch, users can consider the following aspects:

When purchasing a cross-platform KVM, you must consider whether the product provides complete platform compatibility (supports PS/2 and USB dual interfaces, as well as multiple platforms such as PC, Mac, Sun, etc.), and has compatibility independent of different hardware, operating systems and applications.

The information world is changing very fast. One year, distributed data centers were being promoted, and the next year, integrated centers were being replaced. With the change of technology and the tightening of IT procurement budgets, flexibility has become an important consideration for data center management. Therefore, when choosing a KVM solution, it is necessary to evaluate whether it can provide a full range of product lines, maximum scalability, multi-platform support, and close and remote connection access options.

Whether users choose to integrate IT resources from different resource ends or centralize the management of distributed IT resources, their KVM should have the flexibility to handle the complexity of current and future IT operations.

Today's KVM has changed from the traditional image of being expensive, bulky, with complex cables and limited transmission distance to a new design that is not limited by distance and can connect to servers out of band (out-of-band). This will enable data centers that provide mission-critical services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to have a variety of connection flexibility - including standard UTP cables (Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7) with a distance of up to 300 meters, IP/Web access, and various connection methods that integrate the above solutions.

If a variety of connection methods can be properly utilized, technicians will be able to improve management efficiency overall, and can effectively save costs, computer room space and reduce the number of management personnel.

Security: After KVM entered IP technology, it promoted the development of remote control technology between servers and clients, but it also brought another hidden danger, which is the security issue that system administrators are most concerned about. Enterprises should establish an important concept: when deploying IP-based KVM, they must not ignore security issues, and should further strengthen authentication, login passwords, encryption and other preventive measures.

Manageability When purchasing, you should pay attention to the manageability issue. In addition to providing complete software applications, it must also support unified and centralized management of KVM products in the entire network, so that users can perform fault detection at any time and access and manage the server directly from the desktop or from anywhere in the world.

In addition, the after-sales service of the product is also necessary. Choosing products from manufacturers with good after-sales service can provide convenience for future maintenance work.