How to Share a USB Keyboard with a Laptop and a Desktop Computer

If you use a laptop as well as a desktop computer, it makes sense to use a single external keyboard for both computers. Typing on a laptop is easier when you use an external keyboard instead of the built-in keyboard. Using the same keyboard for both computers will prevent you from wasting space on your workstation. Follow these steps to share a USB keyboard with a laptop and a desktop computer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• KVM Switch
• Desktop computer
• Laptop computer
• USB Keyboard

1. Understand that a Keyboard, Video, Mouse (KVM) switch serves as a hub that connects the computer with the keyboard, monitor and mouse. A KVM switch allows a user to use one keyboard, monitor or mouse with more than one computer.
2. Buy a KVM sharing switch that supports USB connectors from an online or retail store. Ensure that the KVM switch has enough ports to attach the keyboard, laptop and desktop.
3. Connect the USB keyboard to the sharing switch.
4. Connect the base of the sharing switch to the two computers. This base is also connected to a small remote controller, which stays on the desktop.
5. Switch between the two computers by pressing a button on the remote controller.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also connect the same speakers, monitor and mouse to two computers using certain KVM sharing switches.

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