Remote desktop comes free with XP, it's not exactly remote control, but on workstation computers it can work that way. What happens is you connect to the computer that you want to KVM with and it will let you control that computer as though you were at it. If you maximize the remote desktop window it's almost like you're actually at the computer. Over a cable connection there is a slight delay, but if the computers are on the same network you won't even realize you are connected. I have it set up on my network so that my servers only need a network cable plugged into them, only one computer has a keyboard, monitor and mouse plugged into it.
to enable right click my computer, click properties, go to the remote tab and make sure "allow users to connect to my computer remotely" then click on select remote users and allow access to the users that you want to allow to connect.
there is a version of this for earlier versions of windows called Terminal Services. I'm not sure if the server version is free, but the client is.
alternatively there are programs that actually control the computer like VNC and PCAnywhere. VNC is free, and works well over a LAN.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.