PiKVM: open-source IP-KVM on Raspberry Pi
Remote keyboard, video and mouse control of any computer over the network, even in the BIOS, using a Raspberry Pi.
Key Facts
- Board: Raspberry Pi 4 (also Zero 2 W, Pi 5 support varies)
- Capture: HDMI-to-CSI bridge or USB dongle
- Emulation: USB HID + mass storage
- Access: web UI
About This Project
PiKVM turns a Raspberry Pi into an IP-KVM: it captures the target computer's HDMI output, emulates a USB keyboard, mouse and mass storage device, and serves it all in a browser. You can install an OS remotely, reboot via ATX control and fix machines that won't boot. DIY builds use a Pi 4 plus an HDMI-to-CSI bridge; ready-made HATs are also sold.
Source & Attribution
Parts Needed
- Raspberry Pi 4 (Pi 2, 3, 5 and Zero 2 W also work, with fewer features on some)
- HDMI-to-CSI bridge (TC358743) or a USB HDMI capture dongle
- USB-C splitter or cable so the Pi can act as a USB device to the target while still getting power
- microSD card (16GB+) and a good power supply
- Optional: ATX control board for power and reset
Steps
- 1
Choose your platform
The DIY 'V2' build uses a Pi 4 plus a CSI bridge for the lowest latency (H.264). A USB capture dongle is easier but limited to MJPEG. Choose before downloading, because each hardware setup has its own OS image.
- 2
Flash the OS
Download the matching PiKVM OS image from pikvm.org and write it to the microSD card with Raspberry Pi Imager or a similar tool.
- 3
Connect the hardware
Attach the capture device to the Pi's CSI port or USB. Connect the Pi's USB-C OTG port to the target computer, using a splitter so power comes from a separate supply, and run HDMI from the target into the capture device.
- 4
First boot and login
Boot the Pi, find its IP address and open it in a browser. Log in with the default admin credentials from the docs, then change both the web password and the root password straight away.
- 5
Configure extras
Upload ISO images for virtual-media boot. If you have ATX wiring, enable power control. Set up HTTPS, 2FA or VPN access before exposing it beyond your LAN.
- 6
Tips
PiKVM OS keeps its root filesystem read-only. Run rw before making changes and ro when you're done. The docs at docs.pikvm.org and the Discord are the best places for help.
Photos
Photos from github.com
Not included: 3D-printed case, wire, solder, USB cable
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