# KVM switch

> device that connects computer front-end hardware to multiple computers

**Wikidata**: [Q828426](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q828426)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KVM_switch)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kvm-switch

## Summary
A KVM switch is a computer hardware peripheral that connects a single set of front-end devices—specifically a keyboard, video monitor, and mouse—to multiple computers. It allows users to control and switch between different computers using one workstation, rather than requiring separate hardware for each machine.

## Key Facts
*   **Classification:** A KVM switch is a type of computer hardware and is functionally an instance of a peripheral device.
*   **Core Function:** The device connects computer front-end hardware to multiple computers simultaneously.
*   **Connected Hardware:** It interfaces specifically with a computer mouse, computer keyboard, computer monitor, and the computers themselves.
*   **Distinctions:** It is distinct from "Kernel-based Virtual Machine" (a software virtualization technology) and "rackmount KVM" (a specific form factor).
*   **Variants:** The technology includes variants such as "IP KVM" and "KVM/IP" for network-based control.
*   **Related Devices:** A notable related device is the "Pi-KVM," a Raspberry Pi-based KVM over IP established in 2020.
*   **Global Presence:** The device is documented across 32 sitelinks and is available in over 15 language versions on Wikipedia (including English, German, Chinese, and Arabic).

## FAQs
### Q: What hardware devices does a KVM switch connect?
A: A KVM switch connects a computer mouse, keyboard, and monitor (the "front-end hardware") to multiple computers. It allows these input and output devices to be shared among several systems.

### Q: Is a KVM switch the same as Kernel-based Virtual Machine?
A: No. While they share the "KVM" acronym, a KVM switch is a physical hardware peripheral, whereas Kernel-based Virtual Machine is a different entity related to software virtualization.

### Q: What is a Pi-KVM?
A: Pi-KVM is a specific implementation of a KVM over IP based on the Raspberry Pi platform. It was inceptioned in 2020 and is related to the broader category of KVM switches.

## Why It Matters
The KVM switch is a significant component in computer hardware management because it solves the problem of hardware redundancy and physical workspace clutter. By allowing a single set of peripherals (mouse, keyboard, monitor) to serve multiple computers, it reduces the cost and physical footprint required to operate several systems simultaneously.

This capability is crucial in environments where users manage multiple servers or workstations but do not need to interact with all of them continuously at the same time. The technology has evolved to include IP-based solutions (KVM/IP), extending its utility beyond local physical connections to remote management over a network. This distinction highlights its role in both local desktop management and broader IT infrastructure maintenance.

## Notable For
*   **Hardware Consolidation:** Uniquely enables a single set of input/output devices to control multiple computers, distinguishing it from standard one-to-one peripheral connections.
*   **Acronym Disambiguation:** Notable for sharing the "KVM" acronym with the completely unrelated "Kernel-based Virtual Machine" software technology.
*   **Form Factor Variety:** Differentiated from specialized forms such as the "rackmount KVM," serving distinct use cases in IT environments.
*   **Adaptability:** The concept has been adapted for modern hobbyist and low-cost applications through devices like the Pi-KVM (2020).

## Body
### Classification and Definition
The KVM switch is a class of **computer hardware** and functions as a **peripheral**. According to its formal definition, it is a "device that connects computer front-end hardware to multiple computers." It is listed under the Wikimedia Commons category "KVM switches."

### Connectivity and Operation
The device functions by bridging the connection between a user's interface tools and the computer systems being managed.
*   **Connects With:** The switch creates interfaces for **computer mice**, **computer keyboards**, **computer monitors**, and **computers**.
*   **Visual Schematics:** Diagrams of its operation are available in the public domain, such as the file `Kvm-switch-diagram.svg`.

### Related and Distinct Entities
The knowledge base distinguishes the KVM switch from other entities to clarify its specific role:
*   **Kernel-based Virtual Machine:** Explicitly listed as "different_from" this entity to prevent confusion with virtualization software.
*   **Rackmount KVM:** Distinguished from this specific hardware mounting format.
*   **Pi-KVM:** Identified as a related "Thing," defined as a Raspberry Pi-based KVM over IP device with an inception date of **2020**.

### Identifiers and Records
*   **Wikidata:** Freebase ID `/m/04bv19`.
*   **Microsoft Academic:** ID 2779162271 (discontinued service).
*   **Aliases:** Also known as PC切替器, CPU切替器, IP KVM, and Commutateur KVM.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013