A network administrator currently has three servers and needs to add a fourth, but does not have enough room for an additional monitor and keyboard. Which device allows the administrator to connect all the servers to a single monitor and keyboard?
- touch screen monitor
- KVM switch
- USB switch
- UPS
- PS/2 hub
The correct answer is: KVM switch.
A KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch allows a network administrator to control multiple servers using a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This is the ideal solution for the administrator who needs to add a fourth server but does not have enough space for an additional monitor and keyboard. The KVM switch enables the administrator to switch between different servers seamlessly, saving both space and the need for multiple sets of peripherals.
Why a KVM Switch is the Correct Solution
A KVM switch is specifically designed to address the problem of managing multiple computers (or servers) with limited space for additional monitors and keyboards. It allows multiple systems to be connected to a single set of peripherals (monitor, keyboard, and mouse). By pressing a button on the KVM switch or using a hotkey, the administrator can switch between servers without needing extra hardware.
How a KVM Switch Works:
- Multiple Inputs, Single Output: The KVM switch has multiple input ports for the servers’ video, keyboard, and mouse connections. These inputs are then routed to a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
- Switching Functionality: The administrator can switch between connected servers either by pressing a button on the KVM switch or using a designated keyboard shortcut (hotkey). This allows them to control any of the servers with the same peripherals.
- Space Efficiency: A KVM switch eliminates the need for multiple monitors and keyboards, which is particularly valuable in environments with limited space, such as server rooms.
Use Cases for KVM Switches:
- Data Centers: In server environments where many servers need to be managed, KVM switches are used to control all servers from one workstation.
- Small Office Networks: In small offices, KVM switches allow administrators to manage multiple computers or servers without needing multiple sets of monitors, keyboards, and mice.
- Testing Environments: In labs or testing environments, KVM switches make it easier to switch between test systems without needing extra peripherals.
Comparison with Other Options
Touch Screen Monitor (Incorrect)
A touch screen monitor allows users to interact with the system by touching the screen directly, but it does not solve the problem of managing multiple servers with limited space for peripherals. While a touch screen monitor provides a more interactive interface, it doesn’t offer the ability to connect and control multiple servers from a single device.
USB Switch (Incorrect)
A USB switch is used to share a single USB device (such as a printer or storage device) between multiple computers. While a USB switch allows for the sharing of USB devices, it does not provide the functionality to connect multiple servers to a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse. A USB switch lacks the video and keyboard/mouse control functionality required to manage multiple servers.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) (Incorrect)
A UPS is designed to provide backup power in the event of a power outage. It helps ensure that servers remain operational during short power interruptions, allowing for safe shutdowns if necessary. While essential in a server environment, a UPS does not solve the problem of managing multiple servers from a single monitor and keyboard.
PS/2 Hub (Incorrect)
A PS/2 hub is used to connect multiple PS/2 devices (older keyboards and mice) to a computer. PS/2 hubs are outdated and are not designed to connect multiple servers to a single monitor and keyboard. Furthermore, modern servers typically use USB or other more modern interfaces for peripheral connections, making a PS/2 hub obsolete in this scenario.
Benefits of Using a KVM Switch in Server Management
Space-Saving:
One of the main advantages of using a KVM switch is its ability to consolidate multiple servers into a single setup. Instead of needing four monitors and keyboards for four servers, a single KVM switch allows the network administrator to save space by using just one monitor and keyboard for all servers.
Cost-Effective:
By using a KVM switch, the administrator avoids the cost of purchasing additional monitors, keyboards, and mice. Instead, they can manage all servers with the same peripherals, reducing hardware expenses.
Efficiency:
A KVM switch improves the efficiency of managing multiple servers. The administrator can quickly switch between servers without having to physically move to another workstation or reconnect peripherals. This saves time, especially in environments with many servers to manage.
Flexibility:
KVM switches can be used with various types of servers, whether they are located in a data center, office, or even a remote location. Additionally, some KVM switches support remote access, enabling administrators to control servers from a distance.
Conclusion
The best solution for the network administrator in this scenario is the KVM switch, as it allows multiple servers to be controlled using a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse. It is a space-saving, cost-effective, and efficient tool for managing multiple systems in server environments. The other options, such as a touch screen monitor, USB switch, UPS, or PS/2 hub, do not provide the necessary functionality to control multiple servers from one set of peripherals. Therefore, the KVM switch is the optimal choice for this task.