A Better Way to Remote Access Your PC: RDC or KVM Extender?

Overview of KVM Extender & RDC

KVM extender is hardware. It allows users to extend the USB and video data on the computer across a considerable distance. There, a keyboard, mouse, and display (KVM Switch) can be attached to remotely control the computer.

Microsoft offers a software application called Remote Desktop Connection, or RDC for short. Through the same network, you can remote access Windows computers by using RDC. What distinguishes an RDC service from a KVM extender? Can a remote computer be controlled via RDC instead of a KVM extender? In this article, you will gain an understanding of how they are used differently and learn a little bit more about both of them.

KVM Extender: a Wired Solution

Before you start setting up the KVM switch, you need to choose the right one for your needs. There are different types of KVM switches available on the market, so make sure you choose one that is compatible with your computer’s ports and operating system. Additionally, you need to consider the number of computers you want to connect, the distance between them, and the type of peripherals you have. The following factors are for your reference:

• Functionality: KVM extenders allow users to extend keyboard, video, and mouse signals over long distances, typically using Cat5/6 cables, fiber optics, or wireless transmission.

• Hardware-based: KVM extenders utilize hardware devices installed at both the local and remote ends to transmit signals, providing low latency and high quality transmission.

• Usage: They are commonly used in industrial environments, data centers, control rooms, and other scenarios where users need to remotely control computers or servers located far away from their workstations.

A transmitter (Tx) and a receiver (Rx) make up a KVM extender. The receiver will be linked to a display, keyboard, and mouse, and the transmitter to the computer. There is a cord connecting the Tx and Rx. (Network switches may be linked to IP KVM extenders).

Consequently, a wired option is the KVM extender solution. A physical link exists between the operator and the computer. Since the transmission length is limited, this technique would not be appropriate if you were trying to control a computer from a different city.

RDC: Software Tool by Microsoft

• Functionality: RDC is a software-based solution that allows users to remotely access and control a computer over a network.

• Software-based: RDC relies on software applications installed on both the local and remote computers to facilitate remote access and control.

• Usage: It is commonly used for remote work, IT support, system administration, and accessing computers from remote locations.

RDC (Remote Desktop Connection) is a software tool by Microsoft and it is built into the Windows system for remote access to the computer. If you enable this feature on your computer, you will be able to control it via the application Microsoft Remote Desktop from a remote computer, tablet, or cellphone. The connection is network-based. Your devices shall be connected in one LAN, or such a connection is done via recognizing the IP address of the computer. In this sense, you can access the computer wherever you are as long as the network is on.

Pros and Cons Between KVM Extender & RDC

Choosing between a Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) and a KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) extender depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the intended use case. Both options have their advantages and limitations. Let's compare them:

• Consistency: KVM extenders rely on hardware. They will figure it out for you as long as they have power. Since RDC and other network-based solutions rely on the Internet, an unstable network will cause the connection to break.

• Safety: Fundamentally, a hardware-based solution offers greater security than a network-based one. No hackers will be able to access the system, which is "your computer - KVM extender - the remote console," and you will have complete control over it.

• Adaptability: You can only control Windows systems from a device with the application installed. KVM extenders are more flexible. You can control your PS5 and Xbox with the extended gamepad, or your AVR with a remote keyboard and mouse.

   

  

Conclusion

In conclusion, KVM extenders provide hardware-based, low-latency transmission suitable for environments requiring precise control and high-quality video transmission over long distances. RDC offers software-based remote access with flexibility and ease of use, ideal for remote work, IT support, and accessing computers from anywhere with an internet connection.