USB over IP technology enables the efficient use of USB devices over IP-based networks. Network-connected USB peripherals can be accessed remotely with full functionality from any device attached to the network.
USB sharing over IP networks eliminates the need to move equipment or swap cables to allow access by multiple and physically dispersed users. The technology behind USB over Internet functionality even makes it possible for computers without USB interfaces to use network-connected devices.
USB over IP software works by employing a combination of virtualization and encapsulation. This enables computers without physical USB ports to access USB devices. Data from a USB device is encapsulated so it can be transferred across a TCP/IP network. The information is then de-encapsulated by a virtual USB port implemented by the USB over TCP/IP software.
A USB to IP implementation requires the software to be installed on the computer that is physically connected to a USB device that will be shared over the network. The same software is also installed on all remote machines that will access the peripheral over the network.
It lets an organization share USB equipment over IP networks without needing to install device drivers on the remote machines. The tool creates secure communication channels through which USB data can be transmitted over the Internet or a private internal network.
Businesses can enjoy significant benefits by implementing USB over Internet functionality. Companies can extract the maximum value from their investment in remote access to USB devices by using the equipment more efficiently throughout the organization.
Let’s look at an example that illustrates the many ways USB over IP software can help a business. We will look at how the technology helps a company with brick-and-mortar retail establishments and a diverse office structure.
The USB equipment used to support the retail component of the business can be network-connected so the information on all transactions is communicated to the databases at the home office. Data from devices such as credit card readers, barcode scanners, and cash registers is made available to network-connected office computers.
Productivity is increased in the company’s home office by implementing a USB over IP software solution to facilitate sharing and remote access of its USB equipment. The specific ways productivity is enhanced with an IP over network solution include:
FlexiHub is an easy-to-use USB over IP software solution. It is compatible with the Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android operating systems. A prerequisite for using the application on any OS is to create a free FlexiHub account.