Control Two Computers with One Keyboard & Mouse - Best Methods
Simplifying Control Across Dual Monitors
For individuals utilizing two computers, each equipped with dual monitors, a common challenge arises: efficiently managing both systems with a single keyboard and mouse. What is the most effective method for seamless switching between these setups?
This question was recently posed to the SuperUser community, and several insightful solutions were offered for optimizing this particular hardware configuration.
Understanding the SuperUser Platform
The featured Question & Answer exchange originates from SuperUser, a valuable resource and a segment of the broader Stack Exchange network.
Stack Exchange is a collaborative collection of question-and-answer websites, driven by its user community.
It provides a platform for users to seek and share knowledge across a wide range of topics.
Image Attribution
The accompanying photograph used to illustrate this topic was kindly provided by Pascal and is sourced from Flickr.
This visual element enhances the understanding of a multi-monitor workstation.
Keyboard and mouse sharing solutions are frequently sought after by users with complex setups.
Addressing a Multi-Computer Setup
A SuperUser user, Arjang, has posed a question regarding the feasibility of managing two separate computers, each equipped with dual monitors, utilizing a single keyboard and mouse.
The Scenario
Arjang’s setup involves two Windows 7 Enterprise machines positioned adjacent to one another. Each computer is connected to a pair of monitors, arranged sequentially from left to right as monitors 1 & 2 (computer one) and monitors 3 & 4 (computer two).
Remote Desktop Inquiry
The core of the inquiry centers around whether a remote desktop connection can be established from the second computer to the first, while maintaining the direct monitor connections to their respective hosts.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
Should a remote desktop solution prove unsuitable, Arjang seeks alternative methods for operating both computers and their associated monitors with a unified keyboard and mouse.
The Desired Functionality
The ideal outcome would be a seamless transition of the cursor across all four monitors, with the input device interacting with the computer to which each monitor is physically connected.
Essentially, the user envisions a system that functions as a single, extended desktop environment spanning both machines.
The question, therefore, boils down to whether such a configuration is achievable, and if so, what methods can be employed to realize it.
Controlling Multiple PCs with One Input Device
A SuperUser community member, intika, provides a solution to the challenge of managing multiple computers with a single keyboard and mouse.
Solution
Numerous software applications are specifically designed to facilitate this functionality. Installation on each computer is required, after which a single keyboard and mouse can be utilized across all connected systems.
Alternatively, a hardware-based keyboard and mouse switch presents another viable option.
Software Options
- Synergy
- ShareMouse
- Input Director
- Mouse without Borders
- Multiplicity
- Teleport
- SynergyKM
- Mouse Broadcaster
Further Reading
Detailed guides and explanations can be found in the following articles:
How to Control Multiple Computers with a Single Keyboard and Mouse (Lifehacker)
Two Computers - One Keyboard (Share Mouse)
3 Impressive Tools to Share Keyboard and Mouse Between Two or More Windows PCs (Guiding Tech)
Additional information on this topic is available through our own published articles, accessible via the links provided below.
Learn how to utilize a single mouse and keyboard across several computers.
Input Director offers control of multiple Windows machines using just one keyboard and mouse.
We encourage readers to contribute their insights and experiences in the comments section. For a more comprehensive discussion and additional perspectives from other technology experts, please visit the original Stack Exchange thread.