Modern Dell monitors come integrated with a KVM feature that allows you to use one keyboard, mouse, and monitor to control two computers.
KVM is an acronym for keyboard, video, and mouse. The KVM feature allows you to view and work with content on two computers using a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse connected to the KVM device.
Select Dell monitors support Auto KVM, a feature that automatically switches control over to the most recently-connected computer.
NOTE: KVM feature is only available on select Dell monitors. See the documentation of your Dell monitor to check if your monitor supports the KVM feature.
To make the most out of the KVM switch on your Dell monitor, let us look at how to set up and configure the devices together.
Connect the two computers to the monitor using an HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C cable for video.
Connect the two computers to the upstream ports on the monitor. This allows the computers to recognize the keyboard and mouse that are connected to the monitor. Compatible USB upstream cables are shipped with Dell monitors that support the KVM feature.
Connect the shared keyboard and mouse to the USB-A downstream ports on the monitor.
Your Dell monitor can display one PC at a time (full screen mode) or display both PCs using picture-in-picture or picture-by-picture mode.
Use the KVM wizard in Dell Display Manager. Dell Display Manager works seamlessly with modern Dell monitors and helps you configure KVM functionality.
You can also use the on-screen display (OSD) menu of your monitor to configure your display preferences. See the product documentation of your Dell monitor to learn how to navigate the on-screen display (OSD) menu.
Let us help you with some frequently asked questions related to KVM setup on Dell monitors.
Which Dell monitors support KVM or Auto-KVM feature?
How many computers can I connect to a Dell monitor that supports KVM?
Can I control more than two computers using KVM?
Can I use a wireless keyboard and mouse using KVM?
Can I share a webcam between the two computers using KVM?
My Dell monitor does not have a USB upstream port, how do I use the KVM feature?
Can I set up shortcut keys to switch between the two computers?