teleport - a must have for multiple macs

The Problem: Clutter

If you’re anything like me, you really want a desktop that is functional while remaining spotless.  I hate nothing more than to sit down to a messy space to try and work.  Clutter is my enemy and I will do anything I can to fight it.  There are wonderful resources onilne that talk about keeping your space clean, contained and organized, such as Unclutterer.  If having one computer on your desk wasn’t complicated enough, think about having multiple computers on your desk all at the same time.  For me, I have an iMac and a MacBook Pro at my desk (usually) at all times.  I have different uses for both machines and sometimes I like to use them both simultaneously.  So, the problem arrises, how can I control them BOTH from the same keyboard and mouse???

In the past, I’ve used KVM switches to accomplish this task.  However, this soltion means that you can only be working on one machine at a time … not to mention the fact that there’s no real easy way to use a KVM on an iMac.  KVM switches are bulky, expensive and an all around hassel.

The Solution: Teleport

Teleport is a free Mac utility that, when installed on two Macs, allows the user to control multiple Macs with one keyboard and mouse.  The intuitive setup utility allows computers to be arranged as they exist on your desk, allowing you to move your mouse over to the other computer seamlessly.  Once you have moved your mouse over to the other computer screen, everything you type is routed to it and you’re fully in control of it.  To move back to your original computer, simply drag the mouse back to it and - voilla - you’re back in business.

Teleport works over Bonjour (a network service) and so the number of computers that can be controlled from one keyboard and mouse seem to be limitless.  There’s no connecting cables or bulky equipment to buy, just having the program running on both Macs connected to the same network establishes the connection.  Another great feature that Teleport provides is pasteboard syncronization and easy file drag-and-drop.  Setup is a breaze and making use of it’s many customizeable features is super simple.

Give this utility a try if you’re interested in using multiple Macs with one keyboard and mouse … you won’t regret it.  Checkout SoldierKnowsBest review for Teleport on YouTube if you’re interested.