How to Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor

A step-by-step guide to using your keyboard and mouse with more than one PC or Mac

Co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha

Last Updated: February 19, 2026

Here's a convenient way to operate two (or more) computers from one location without the need for duplicating a keyboard, mouse and monitor.

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Hardware and software based solutions are available. Read on to help figure out which is best for your personal situation.
The network can be a LAN if it will be controlled locally only, or an internet connection if it will need to be controlled from any computer in the world with an internet connection.

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One such provider is LogMeIn. They have several levels of service ranging from free for "simple remote control" (LogMeInFree) to the more robust "full service" offerings (such as LogMeInPro) but has a monthly fee of about US$20 per computer. The LogMeIn service in general works very well, but like any network based solution, is best when connected by high speed LAN or broadband internet between the computers. Select the service level that best meets your needs, create an account and download/install the software.
A second software based option is the open source solution called "synergy" this works across operating systems, when simply trying to control several computers locally with one keyboard and mouse, a "soft" KVM switch if you will.
These devices typically have connections for multiple Video inputs from the computers and a single output to connect to a monitor. There are also multiple PS/2 Mouse and Keyboard outputs to connect to the computers and two inputs for connecting both a keyboard and a mouse. Newer KVM switches have transitioned from PS/2 and round Keyboard connectors to the popular USB ports instead. Be sure to obtain a KVM that supports the style Keyboard and Mouse connectors the computer uses or obtain adapters. Due to limitations on the length of cable that KVM (and USB for that matter) signals can travel, all the computers will probably have to be located fairly close (within 10 feet or so of the KVM hardware) unless some other repeater or extender hardware is employed.
Many KVM's install device drivers and use a small program to switch between computers. This means if multiple OS's are involved, drivers will be required for each in order to work properly.
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Install the KVM and software as specified in the manufacturer's instructions.
- To keep your Windows desktop computer or laptop safe from viruses, use the Windows Defender. It is an anti-virus software built into a Windows operating system.^{[1]
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- You can use this software instead of other paid and tested software because they may try to clean up programs and software on your computer that are not bad.^{[2]
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- Email providers like MSN, Gmail, or Yahoo have different filter systems. To know if the email is legit or not is to look at the domain of the email.^{[3]
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Question

What key on the keyboard switches between two computers?

Denneisk

Top Answerer

No key on the keyboard can specifically do that, but you could bind a separate key that came with the keyboard (not part of the original keyboard) to do that.

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