TRENDnet TK-IP101 KVM IP Switch with TK-423K KVM

Introduction

Normally we would not cover something like the TK-IP101; it is more of an enterprise class product. However, I recently ran into a situation where I needed to run a reinstall of a system and was not able to be directly in front of it for the duration of the install. Remote desktop would not work as there was no OS; I could not run a monitor and keyboard out to where I was, so in the end I had to run back and forth between locations which caused both projects to take much longer than needed. I started looking for a solution. I found it in the TRENDNet TK-IP101 IP KVM.

The TK-IP101 is an IP accessible KVM that serves multiple functions; it allows for console access to any system connected directly to it and can also connect to standard KVMs to allow it to control multiple systems. Access is secured by SSL certificates (including the ability to import Certificates from outside) and user authentication.

With its ability to show the full console over a LAN or even WAN connection, the TK-IP101 looks like a great device for the enthusiast on the go and when coupled with a 4-port KVM (the TK-423K) it only adds to its usage. TRENDNet was kind enough to provide us with both the TK-IP101 and a TK-423K for our testing, allowing us to show you the full range of features. Let's see if we can pull these products out of the enterprise segment and get them to work for the enthusiast.