Dominion KX III KVM-over-IP Switch: Who Wants Java-Free?

Rick Gonedes
May 18, 2017

If you had to make a list of all customer complaints related to KVM and KVM-over-IP switches over the last few years, Java would undoubtedly be right at the top. There was a time where Java was a workhorse for software developers. It's safe to say that those days are now long gone. Java is one of the leading contributors to situations where KVM sessions may load incorrectly (or not at all). Java has security issues with today’s browsers, seemingly unending number of annoying pop-ups and has become infamous over the years for the types of random, forced updates that can stifle productivity in an instant.

All of these problems and more are the reasons why Raritan has been providing Java-free solutions for the Dominion KX III KVM-over-IP switch. It frees end users from the confines of Java, allowing administrators to troubleshoot, reconfigured, reboot or even power cycle servers remotely from anywhere on the network at any time.

What is KVM-over-IP?

KVM-over-IP sometimes referred to as IP KVM, devices like the Dominion KX III uses specialized video hardware to capture video information as well as keyboard and mouse signals. That information is compressed and converted into packets and sent over a TCP/IP network to a KVM client application. This client then unpacks the data and represents it as a dynamic graphical image, which allows users to control multiple computers from a single point of access.

The reason businesses employ solutions like KVM-over-IP is to save time, money and increase overall uptime. At Raritan, we believe that a reliance on Java runs contrary to these advantages. After careful deliberation, Raritan introduced the Java-free Dominion KX III switch.

Remember that in addition to the aforementioned problems, another major issue with Java in this context is compatibility. Java isn't supported at all in browsers like Chrome and Firefox without a plugin - creating another potential point of failure in an area where productivity is critical. If the KX III's KVM client software is going to be able to conduct the type of sophisticated video processing that users demand, overcoming these hurdles is a requirement.

The Dominion KX III: Breaking It Down

At the heart of the Dominion KX III switch is the highest performing and most flexible KVM-over-IP technology available today. The KX III has not one but two KVM clients, both of which are entirely Java-free. The first is a Windows-based Active KVM Client, while the second is an HTML KVM Client. Not only does this mean that users can now access the switch from anywhere on the network (be it a LAN or a WAN, from a PC or laptop, or even from an external Internet connection), but the unit also offers complete compatibility with the Windows, MacOS, and Linux operating systems.

In terms of the new HTML KVM client, customers will no doubt be pleased to know that it runs totally within a web browser without using Java or .NET in any way. Even if your own organization has yet to go Java-free itself, this is still a terrific way to begin the process of slowly minimizing your use of Java over time.

Say "Goodbye" to Java

These are just a few of the issues that have motivated Raritan to migrate away from Java technology entirely. Between the significant gains in terms of performance, ease of use, and overall flexibility, we're incredibly proud to be the only company in our industry today that has taken such an important step.

If you'd like to find out more information about what the Dominion KX III KVM-over-IP switch is or interested in learning more about the benefits of going Java-free, please visit http://www.raritan.com/products/kvm-switches/dominion-kxiii.