On 1/30/2012 11:05 AM, nanog-request@nanog.org wrote:

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Message: 8 Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:09:16 -0600 From: "Express Web Systems" <mailinglists@expresswebsystems.com> To: "'NANOG'" <nanog@nanog.org> Subject: RE: IP KVM suggestions Message-ID: <033601ccdf7a$481d0f90$d8572eb0$@com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

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I have a need for a small, portable, web based IP kvm with decent features that doesn't break the bank. Preferably something that supports ISO mounting from http or ftp and USB connectivity. Would also prefer something browser independent. Small plugin like the Raritan devices would be acceptable too. It will be used internally for Remote access while building devices pre deployment to customers. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Blake Lantronix Spider is a small, portable, affordable and web enabled IP KVM. Supports ISO mounting and has USB connections.

http://www.lantronix.com/it-management/kvm-over-ip/securelinx-spider.html

It is a single server unit. So if you want to connect many servers at the same time, it might not be the best option as the price quickly escalates. However, if you buy one and just move it from server to server (which is what I got from your email), then it is a pretty good fit. Java based web interface, not the greatest, but it works.

For multiple server access from a single unit, look at the Dell 2161DS (rebranded Avocent units) line. They are abundant on ebay, and relatively inexpensive, and can expand to up to 128 servers (via add on PEM modules - the unit has 16 ports and you connect a PEM to one of the ports and you can connect up to 8 servers to the PEM 16 x 8 = 128). The 2161DS-2 also supports ISO mounting when using USB dongles (the 2161DS does not). Java based client software... Dell isn't supporting the 2161DS software any more apparently and won't install natively on Windows 7, I have it running on Windows7, but it has to be "Run As Administrator" but the software can be installed on an XP machine and then copied, this also works for linux, etc.

Tom Walsh

If security is a concern, then you will probably want to only use the 2161-DS behind a VPN, if at all. The session authentication is fairly weak and supports no ACLs. It does support lock-out on multiple bad authentication attempts though. -Chris