VMware Workstation Pro Interferes with Physical KVM Switch: A Rare Solution

In this article, we will discuss a rare and possibly unique issue related to using a StarTech: SV211K USB KVM switch for home office setup with a personal device and a work laptop. Specifically, we will focus on how VMware Workstation Pro can interfere with the proper functioning of the KVM switch.

Background

KVM switches allow users to connect multiple computers to a single set of monitor, keyboard, and mouse, enabling easy switching between systems. StarTech's SV211K model supports USB connections and is popular among home office users, particularly those who need to switch between a personal computer and a work laptop regularly.

VMware Workstation Pro is a popular virtualization software that enables running multiple virtual machines on a single physical host. Although it's designed to work seamlessly with the host OS and hardware, it can sometimes interfere with the proper functioning of USB peripherals.

Identifying the Problem

The issue we'll discuss in this article occurs when a user tries to switch between a personal computer and a work laptop connected via a StarTech SV211K KVM switch, and the switch fails to recognize one of the systems.

The user will notice that when they attempt to switch to the affected system using the KVM switch, the switch may make a switching sound, but the monitor remains on the active system's display. Furthermore, the switch may display an error message, indicating that it has failed to recognize the device.

After some experimentation, the user may find that the KVM switch fails to recognize the system with VMware Workstation Pro running. It's worth noting that this issue may occur only on certain hardware configurations or software versions, making it a rare and possibly unique case.

Possible Solution

The solution for this issue is to create a separate virtual switch in VMware Workstation Pro for the KVM switch. This allows the KVM switch to function correctly and enables switching between the personal computer and work laptop.

To create a separate virtual switch, follow these steps:

1. Open VMware Workstation Pro and select your virtual machine.

2. Go to the "Edit virtual machine settings" tab.

3. Select the "Network adapter" option.

4. Create a new virtual network adapter by clicking on the "Add..." button.

5. In the "Network connection" section, select the "Custom" option.

6. Enter the name for the new virtual network (e.g., "KVM Switch").

7. Select "Host-only" as the network connection type.

After completing these steps, you should have a separate virtual switch that you can use for the KVM switch. The KVM switch will now be able to recognize both the personal computer and the work laptop. It's worth noting that the virtual machine will be isolated from the host network, and any network-related applications may not function as expected.

Caveats

While this solution may work for some users, it's worth noting that it may not be ideal in all situations. For instance, users may encounter network connectivity issues with the virtual machine, since it's isolated from the host network.

Furthermore, this solution may not work for all hardware configurations or software versions. Therefore, it's essential to try different approaches and work with the KVM switch and VMware Workstation Pro vendors for support.

References

• StarTech.com - SV211K 1-Port USB KVM Switch

• VMware - Creat ```kotlin e a Custom Virtual Network in VMware Workstation ```

This article has discussed a rare and possibly unique issue related to using a StarTech SV211K USB KVM switch for home office setup with a personal device and a work laptop. Specifically, we have focused on how VMware Workstation Pro can interfere with the proper functioning of the KVM switch. We have provided a possible solution for this issue and caveats to keep in mind when implementing the solution. Finally, we have included references to relevant resources for further reading.