
Ever wondered how to share one USB device with two computers? Is it even possible?
Good news! The answer is yes!
Anyone who depends on USB peripherals day-to-day has encountered scenarios where they’ve needed access to a USB device physically connected to another computer.
This article offers two helpful options to share USB devices with multiple computers- both simple enough to perform with a few clicks (or just one push) of a button!
Regardless of the distance between the user and the USB device they need to access, using USB over Ethernet software can make it a quick and convenient process. This complex but easy-to-use app allows users to share USB devices between a variety of platforms and distances.
Even better, messy and frustrating cables and wires will not be necessary! The software we’ll share simply redirects access to the desired device over an internet connection.
USB Network Gate permits users to share as many devices/USB ports as they’d like via Internet, LAN, WAN, or VPN.
Remote machines (referred to as “clients”) can connect with the computer that the user is working from (referred to as the “server”.) Once connected, the server can access/control/manage USB devices connected physically to the client computer.
Users will enjoy the full flexibility and functionality of their USB devices because apps compatible with remote USB devices won’t notice a difference- thus treating them as if they were physically attached to the server machine.
Let’s go over the second highly effective method of how to connect one USB device to two computers: a USB Switch.
What is a USB sharing switch?
A USB switch is a piece of hardware that allows users to share one (or more) USB peripherals amongst different users (like USB flash drives, USB external drives, USB printers, USB memory cards, and so on.)
This specialized hardware (USB 3.0 Sharing Switch) makes it simple to alter the connection of one set of USB devices from one machine to another. With one press of a button, users can switch to share USB device between two computers easily and quickly.
Follow the steps below to make a USB switch between two computers:
Now any and all devices connected to the USB switch will change their connection from the host machine to the guest machine!
Didn’t we tell you it would be simple?
Both sharing options make sharing USB peripherals fast and convenient- which vastly enhances productivity. However, using a software option is the clear winner for any situation where long-distance/remote working is necessary.
That being said, USB Network Gate is a perfect solution! Check out some of the awesome benefits it has to offer:
Additionally, the application supports USB passthrough to virtual environments, functioning perfectly during RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) sessions.
Adversely, the USB Switch hardware has the benefit of its affordable pricing- being cheaper than USB Network Gate. However, you get what you pay for with USB Network Gate, as its massive suite of features and usability make it a very worthwhile investment.
As you can see, accessing a USB device remotely is very simple. Anyone of any skill level can manage the task with just a few clicks, and it’s just a matter of deciding which method makes the most sense for their situation.
All in all, if you don’t have to worry about distance being a factor, a USB Switch is a quick, simple, and convenient option.
Alternatively, if you (like many organizations in the post-COVID world) are switching to remote working environments, have remote support teams, or don’t feel like dealing with the limitations of hardware, software like USB Network Gate is an ideal option.
We recommend USB Network Gate because the convenience and reliability are more than worth the price- and you never know when you may need access to an important device from a machine that can’t be connected to ta USB Switch.
USB Network Gate