KVM over IP switches are IP-based hardware devices that allow the interconnection and management of up to thousands of servers, making remote server access possible for all the KVM connected servers via in-band and out-of-band methods. Using advanced security and encryption, administrators can log into servers from virtually anywhere with internet connectivity and control nearly every aspect of target machines, including power cycles and CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) settings.
The ability to remotely access tens, hundreds, even thousands of servers is a game-changer for growing enterprise networks and a necessity for large-scale data centers. Among the chief benefits is exceptional access flexibility for IT staff. With IP KVM, key administrators can access data centers worldwide, reduce in-person administration, and reduce wasted time and costs.
KVM benefits also impact data center architecture, design, and security. Centers can be easily located at the edge or in remote locations for security without relocating IT administrators and developers who access those resources.
IP KVM and Access Methods
With many options to connect, KVM over IP makes accessing data centers exceptionally simple and convenient. The following are standard methods.
Dial-up connection is possible via ISDN or standard 56K modems.
Using a secure web browser connection has become the de facto point of access for data center network administrators. Typically, this access will require Java or Javascript HTTPS -IPv4, IPv6 on client computers. However, the latest IP KVM technology utilizes HTML5, eliminating the need to install Java on clients.
VNC viewers are another secure protocol for accessing IP KVM. If the KVM over IP switch runs a VNC server, a remote user with the appropriate credentials can use RealVNC to log into the IP KVM and access the target connected computers. Depending on the number of channels, single or dual, the KVM's physical console can simultaneously be used while someone is remotely accessing it (dual channel).
Serial console access, console-based only, allows users to connect to their KVM via serial ports such as RS-232, DB-15, Ethernet, and USB. Because of this method's text console nature, it requires minimal bandwidth, making it ideal for situations where bandwidth overhead is critically managed.
Mobile and tablets are being included in a new wave of IP KVM access points. As technology advances and remote work becomes a mainstay, iOS and Android devices equipped with VNC and secure web browsers can connect to IP KVMs, allowing even greater mobile access to remote systems and IT staff flexibility.
Single and Multi-user Access
KVM switches, depending on their design, can grant single- or multiple-user access. Multi-user access is less of a consideration for small offices or home offices, where there are fewer systems and a limited budget. These networks can be serviced easily by small single-user KVM switches like the Avocent AV100 KVM switch while accommodating four, eight, and 16 targets.
But for larger data centers that house hundreds of systems, Internet and IP technology have extended the standard single-user KVM switches bringing about enterprise matrix KVM switches, which offer multiple users simultaneous access to theoretically limitless target computers.
In-band and Out-of-band Accessibility
KVM over IP switches will offer both in-band and out-of-band (OOB) access management as redundancy features.
In-band access is achieved using the local network fabric such as a LAN/WAN. This access is the most common and offers immediate connection through the enterprise's network.
OOB accessibility creates an alternate secure and dedicated method for IT staff to access network infrastructure. An OOB interface depends on the device and network setup. Still, likely candidates are serial ports or direct Ethernet connections to the KVM switch, or in complete remote management systems, serial over LAN (redirecting serial I/O over IP). This OOB capability allows administrators to overcome bottlenecks that occur in the local network fabric and troubleshoot problem areas when in-band access is prevented. The capability can be exceptionally useful in congested networks or networks under attack.
IP KVM Types
In the sea of vendors and KVM systems, choosing a KVM switch rests on two features: the accessibility it grants and the number of target connected computers permitted. Standard IP KVM offers IP-based access notably over the LAN/WAN to a set of target devices. KVM over IP gateways grant secure remote access over a LAN/WAN, the Internet, and even ISDN/56K modem to KVM connected computers, depending on the included features.
High-density IP KVM switches are enterprise-grade switches that allow for a large number of connections. Using CatX cabling, daisy-chaining switches can expand those connections to several hundred while increasing the allowable distance between the switches, servers, and remote client computers.
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