A USB-to-IP converter, also called a USB-to-IP adapter, lets users access USB devices over an IP network. With a USB over IP adapter, peripheral devices can be shared and accessed over any type of IP network including the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or a local area network (LAN). Remote users enjoy the same level of control over these devices as they would with a direct physical connection.
How USB to IP converters work
USB to IP converters employ a simple three-step process to provide network access to USB peripherals.
- A USB device is connected to a server in the form of a network-attached computer or hardware converter.
- Data from the USB device is transmitted over the network as IP packets.
- A client machine accesses and controls the remote USB device as if it was locally connected using specialized software.
Types of USB to IP converters
USB to IP adapters come in two varieties:
- Hardware-based solutions - A hardware USB to IP converter is typically a standalone device that accepts connections from USB devices and links them to a network. These are relatively simple devices that don’t need to be connected to a computer.
- Software-based solutions - Specialized software applications allow a computer to serve as a USB over IP converter and share peripheral devices over a network. Other machines running the same software can access the devices across an IP network.
Benefits of USB to IP converters
Companies deploying USB to IP converters stand to enjoy significant benefits that allow them to maximize their investment in peripheral devices.
- Flexibility - A USB-to-IP converter provides enhanced flexibility as devices can be used by any network-connected computer.
- Mobility - Distance limitations are eliminated through the use of a USB-to-IP adapter.
- Simplification - Device management is simplified by eliminating the need to physically move equipment.
- Cost-effectiveness - Sharing USB devices is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing duplicate equipment for alternate locations.
USB over IP Hardware Solutions
Hardware-based USB-to-IP adapters provide remote access and full control over USB devices by making them available over an IP network. Remote clients can use the devices as if they were directly attached to their machines. USB over IP hardware solutions are used in many scenarios such as offices and industrial control systems. Following are some of the best USB-to-IP hardware solutions based on their performance and reliability.
Silex Technology SX-DS-4000U2
Features:
- The SX-DS-4000U2 is a high-performance solution for sharing USB devices across the network.
- The hardware supports connecting a wide variety of popular USB devices including removable hard drives, scanners, and printers.
Pros:
- High-quality construction;
- Wide device compatibility;
- Streamlined setup;
- Professional-grade performance and reliability.
Cons:
- More expensive than other options;
- May provide more power than needed for some usage scenarios.
StarTech.com USB 2.0 LAN Network Server
Features:
- StarTech enables simultaneous access to up to four USB devices;
- Device management is facilitated with an intuitive web interface.
Pros:
- User-friendly device management;
- Supports many USB device types;
- Cost-effective for small businesses.
Cons:
- Only provides USB 2.0 compatibility;
- May not be suitable for high-bandwidth devices like webcams.
Digi AnywhereUSB
Features:
- AnywhereUSB supports secure communication protocols;
- Multiple ports for flexible remote access to USB devices;
- Remote device management functionality.
Pros:
- Supports connecting multiple USB devices;
- Advanced security;
- High reliability is suitable for enterprise use.
Cons:
- Enterprise-grade features come at a higher price than other solutions.
Lantronix UBox Series such as the UBox 4100
Features:
- Lantronix UBox supports multiple types of USB devices;
- Streamlines the secure sharing of USB devices over a network.
Pros:
- Reliable performance;
- Easy setup and use;
- Robust security features.
Cons:
- The limited number of USB ports may require the use of multiple adapters.
IOGEAR Ethernet-2-WiFi Universal Wireless Adapter
Features:
- IOGEAR device offers an alternative to traditional USB to IP adapters;
- Enables USB device access and sharing over a WiFi network.
Pros:
- WiFi access to eliminate network cabling for improved flexibility;
- Simple setup;
- Compact device footprint.
Cons:
- Best suited for USB devices without high-speed connection requirements;
- May require additional configuration for best performance.
USB over IP Software Solutions
Here's a list of our top three USP over IP software solutions. They all offer unique feature sets that address various device sharing and networking requirements. We’ll also look at the advantages of a software solution when compared with USB-to-IP hardware.
USB Network Gate
USB Network Gate is a software application that works as a USB-to-IP adapter. The tool enables users to control devices over an IP network with the same functionality as a direct physical connection. USB Network Gate is a flexible solution that enables you to access your peripheral devices from any network-connected location.
