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White Paper:
Data center control: Guidelines to achieve centralized management.
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White Paper:
Best Practices for Secure Console Port Management in the Data Center. Read about the tools for secure access and remote management of serial console ports.
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What is KVM?
KVM explained
KVM switches enable you to access and control a computer by connecting directly to the Keyboard, Video and Mouse (KVM) ports. KVM technology needs no target server modifications or software. It means the target computer is available at all times, from BIOS to Windows. KVM provides true motherboard level access and supports multi-platform servers and serial devices.
From the original concept, KVM technology has now evolved into being an enterprise IT infrastructure management system. From a single interface such as Avocent DSView® 3 management software, you have direct access to servers and devices in multiple remote locations. Avocent KVM over IP solutions now also include full multi-location failover, a direct interface into the new server management standard (IPMI), and the ability to map local storage media to a remote location.
Analog KVM technology
Analog KVM switching connects directly to the keyboard, video and mouse signals on any computer. It provides easy plug and play installation operating completely independent of software and network operating systems, and provides real-time access between a user and multiple computers. Analog KVM is optimised for environments where users and systems reside in the same location and is ideal for accessing centralised multi-PC and multi-rack environments. Avocent analog KVM solutions include SwitchView, AutoView and AMX KVM switches.
KVM over IP
KVM over IP digitises the keyboard, video and mouse data and uses IP technology to move the KVM data. KVM over IP connects directly to KVM signals on any computer and is non-invasive to the computer, no added software/hardware. The technology leverages the existing network infrastructure and supports both local and remote users. KVM over IP works in heterogeneous hardware environments and is ideal for managing multi-location data centres and branch offices.
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KVM features
- No software or hardware added to the PC, server or serial device
- Because it connects directly to the KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) ports on the target device, a KVM switch provides you with powerful BIOS/motherboard-level access.
- Supports multi-platform operating systems (PS/2, Sun, USB) and serial devices
- Provides server and device access for multiple users at the same time
- Enables local and remote access to servers and serial devices
- Avocent DSView® 3 management software provides you with control over the entire IT infrastructure from a single screen.
- Avocent KVM over IP solutions include comprehensive remote power management facilities.
- Avocent DSView 3 software includes multiple points of failover, and enables you to map local storage media to a remote server (Virtual Media).
- Avocent DSView 3 software also includes a direct interface to IPMI, the new server management standard.
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History of KVM
Basic KVM switches allow you to control multiple computers through a single switch, eliminating wasted space and clutter created by multiple, redundant I/O devices. Rack based KVM switching enables you to administer and connect to rack based servers, at the rack or at a distance over IP. From a single console, you can access and control an entire rack or room full of servers.
KVM switching has changed to match the needs of data centres and branch environments. KVM over IP technology eliminated distance limitations in the data centre. With KVM over IP, you can use centralised management software to control multiple servers and network devices no matter where they are located.
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Benefits of KVM
- Centralised management. KVM over IP switches enable you to access all your servers and devices from a central location, from anywhere.
- Provide "out of band" access to servers. Because they provide a direct connection to the keyboard, video and mouse ports, KVM switches enable BIOS-level access independent of the server or corporate network. You can continue to manage servers, even if the network is down.
- Management efficiencies and reduced costs. By providing centralised access to IT infrastructures, KVM technology enables you to centralise expertise, increase response times, and reduce cost and time of travelling to the server room.
- Increased data centre security. KVM technology enables you to maintain your servers in a secure environment, but at the same time have full access to those servers. KVM also provides additional security such as password control and detailed logging of user access to servers.
- Improved responsiveness and reduced downtime. With KVM technology you can respond immediately to problems from any location. Expert centralised staff can immediately diagnose and repair problems in remote data centres and branch offices.
- Decreases cost and increases power and space savings of multiple sets of redundant peripherals
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KVM customer segments |
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Data center solutions
Avocent data center solutions provide secure, centralized management of the entire IT infrastructure – all with a single interface from anywhere. Solutions include KVM over IP switches, power management over IP, and complete remote console control.
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Analog matrix KVM switching
AMX® KVM switches are analog-based solutions, ideal for multi-rack and specialized environments where users and servers reside within a centralized location, and secure real-time access to servers is required.
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SMB server roomAutoView® KVM switches enable comprehensive rack management and include a powerful on-screen display that allows easy system configuration and quick server selection.
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Desktop KVM switchesSwitchView® KVM switches provide total control over your desktop. You benefit from single-user access to multiple PCs, and share USB and audio peripherals between PCs.
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Desktop extensionAvocent LongView® extenders allow you to extend a monitor and keyboard up to 1,000 feet away from your computer.
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