KVMoverIP

KVMoverIP refers to technology and products that provide keyboard, video, and mouse access to a computer or server over an IP network. It typically combines a hardware device that attaches to the target system’s video, keyboard, and mouse signals with a network interface and management software or web client. This setup allows an administrator to view the host’s video output and send input as if directly connected, from a remote location.

How it works

A KVMoverIP unit sits between the target machine and its peripherals, or is integrated into a KVM switch with IP management. The device streams video to the remote client and transmits keyboard and mouse signals back to the host. Many implementations offer additional capabilities such as virtual media (remote mounting of drives or ISO files), USB device forwarding, BIOS-level or POST access, console recording, and multi-user access with role-based permissions. Communication is typically encrypted using TLS, and access is controlled via authentication mechanisms, with some products supporting VPN or dedicated out-of-band networks for added security.

Use cases

KVMoverIP is commonly used in data centers, remote office or branch environments, and disaster recovery setups. It enables administrators to perform server maintenance, software updates, troubleshooting, or installation tasks without on-site visits. The solution is valued for reducing travel time, accelerating incident response, and providing continuous remote access to servers and other headless systems.

Security and considerations

Because KVM over IP exposes direct control of a host, strong access controls, regular auditing, and encryption are important. Organizations commonly implement network segmentation, strong authentication, and monitoring to mitigate risks associated with remote management.

See also

Out-of-band management, remote administration, KVM switch, remote server management.