How To Share Keyboard And Mouse Between Two Computers

Share mouse and keyboard between 2 computers with USB Network Gate

USB Network Gate uses a network connection that allows users to easily share, manage, and control multiple USB devices on remote machines. USB Network Gate is so effective that remotely accessed devices behave as if they were physically attached to the machine seeking remote access. That makes USB Network Gate an ideal mouse and keyboard sharing software solution.

Here are just some of the exciting advantages of USB Network Gate:

• Share an infinite amount of USB devices (like one keyboard two computers capabilities)
• Freely switch between USB devices since USB Network Gate shares the USB port, not the device itself
• Give custom names to your USB devices for easy identification
• Create authorization passwords
• Enable encryption
• Access remotely shared devices from virtual machines, remote desktops, and even blade servers

Most common USB Network Gate use cases

Let’s go over several scenarios where USB Network Gate’s features, reliability, and user-friendliness provide a plethora of solutions when it comes to keyboard and mouse sharing.

✔ Controlling 3D mice

Using a 3D mouse on a remote computer often poses a problem for developers. An example is the limited native functionality of the SpaceNavigator 3D mouse which can only zoom inside an RDP session. With USB Network Gate you can easily use one mouse on two computers.

✔ Forwarding USB over RDP

USB Network Gate is an effective solution for the users having problems with getting USB over Remote Desktop to work. The software lets you access remote USB devices by creating a virtual copy of the peripheral equipment. Remote desktops can exert full control over the USB devices. In this way you can use one keyboard for two computers by forwarding it to an RDP session and using it on the local machine as well. Both machines enjoy the full functionality of the shared USB device.

✔ Share mouse and keyboard between Windows and Mac

One key benefit that USB Network Gate holds over competitor software is its cross-compatibility. Regardless of the OS you’re sharing or requesting access from, it’s easily accessible by all computers sharing the network (be they MAC, Windows, Linux, or Android PC!)

✔ Redirect USBs from a “Thin” client

Easily managing remote devices is especially important for those using a “thin client” (AKA a computer lacking a hard drive.) Such machines rely on other computers (instead of servers) to host applications, memory features, sensitive data, etc…
(Note: Server functionality will vary wildly.)

Other USB device sharing software options

While USB Network Gate is a fantastic option, there’s still a wide variety of software to try when users want to switch keyboard and mouse between computers (as well as access additional/alternative devices remotely.)

Synergy by Symless

Synergy is the most popular entry in this industry, though currently transitioning into new territory with its software. While it has a fairly complex setup process, Synergy (and Barrier) works great once the setup is complete.

Input Director by The OpenSSL Project

For Windows users interested in reliable sharing software, and aren’t afraid of a more time-consuming setup than USB Network Gate, Input Director is a great option. It provides a variety of helpful security, hotkey, and bonus features- but could be frustrating for novices.

ShareMouse by Bartels Media

ShareMouse is a fantastic option that offers cross-compatibility and virtually no setup. However, it can have somewhat spotty connectivity, and the drag and drop feature is only available with the paid Pro plan.

Mouse Without Borders

Mouse Without Borders offers an extremely beginner-friendly setup and reliable mouse and keyboard sharing. Once installed, just enter the appropriate codes and automatically connect. Unfortunately, it’s only compatible with Windows computers.

Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop is built into most Windows 10 machines, and makes it super easy to access a remote mouse or keyboard on another PC. It works extremely well, but isn’t cross-platform compatible. Additionally, only computers with Windows Pro or Windows Enterprise can be accessed.

KVM Switch: the hardware option

Hardware like KVM switches used to be the main way to share mouse and keyboard access between computers (before software appeared and made it a much more streamlined process.)

Switches like the HDMI JideTech model (or DisplayPort IOGear model) behave as a basic A/B switch. Switching a keyboard/mouse between computers happens with just the press of a button.

It is strongly recommended to research which KVM switch will work best for your situation, as their functionality, features, and reliability can vary.

Conclusion

Using a single mouse or keyboard for multiple computers is not difficult and there are multiple software tools available from which to choose your favorite solution.

USB Network Gate is our choice in software that can control two computers with one keyboard. It a secure solution that employs encryption and is easy to use. It’s a feature-rich program that gives you control over remote USB ports so you can use any connected device as if you are physically attached to it.

Your work life will be easier whichever USB software or hardware solution you choose for sharing devices or controlling two computers with one keyboard. Being able to remotely access USB devices over the network aids productivity and is cost-effective.