Avocent (Vertiv)

Avocent SC740

Expert rating7 / 10

Port Count:: 4
Video Standard:: DVI
Displays Per Computer:: 2 displays

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Manufacturer: Avocent (Vertiv) Last updated: September 12, 2026

Avocent SC740 (4 Computers / Dual Monitor Secure KVM Switch) Review

The Avocent SC740 is a NIAP-certified secure KVM switch for 4 computers and dual monitors, part of Vertiv's SC700 series aimed at classified and multi-domain desks.

The SC700 line sits a notch below the SC900 series in Vertiv's own lineup, and the SC740 is the entry point for anyone who needs certified channel isolation across four machines but doesn't need the SC945H's HDMI-specific build. It's the more budget-friendly of the two secure options in this catalog for a 4-computer dual-monitor desk, and like every switch in this security tier it drops audio switching entirely to close off that exfiltration path.

Entry-Level Secure Switching

The SC740 brings NIAP-style certified isolation to a 4-computer desk at a lower position in Vertiv's lineup than the SC900 series, making it the more accessible secure option here.

No Audio Channel

Consistent with secure-KVM design practice, there's no audio path between computers, removing a common vector auditors look for on classified desks.

Comparison to Alternatives

Versus the Avocent SC945H — that's the HDMI-based SC900-series equivalent, worth it if the higher security tier or HDMI video is required. Versus the Avocent SC780 — that scales the same SC700 security model to 8 computers, worth it for larger secure desks.

Specifications

Design

Port Count	4
Switching Method	Button, hotkey

Topology

Computers Supported	4 computers
Displays Per Computer	2 displays
KVM Segment	Secure

Video & Features

Video Standard	DVI
Audio Support	Yes

Video interface

Video Connector	DVI
Video Interface Version	DVI

Brand	Avocent
Model	SC740
Security	NIAP Common Criteria validated to EAL2+
Source URL	https://www.vertiv.com/49347e/globalassets/shared/avocent-switchview-sc600-and-sc700-switches.pdf

Expert Review

Reviewed by Burooj Alam. Rated by us, not by users.

Expert rating7 / 10

A solid entry point into certified secure KVM switching for a standard 4-computer desk.

Best for

Government and defense desks needing entry-tier NIAP-certified isolation
4-computer secure setups on a tighter budget than the SC900 series
IT teams standardizing on Vertiv's SC700 security platform

Not for

Desks needing HDMI instead of DisplayPort (see the SC945H)
Anyone wanting audio switching
Larger operations needing more than 4 computers (see the SC780)

FAQs

What are the key specifications of the Avocent SC740 (4 Computers / Dual Monitor Secure KVM Switch)?

The Avocent SC740 (4 Computers / Dual Monitor Secure KVM Switch) is a KVM switch from Avocent (Vertiv). Key specs: Port Count 4 computers, dual monitor, Switching Method Button, hotkey, Video Standard DisplayPort, Max Resolution 1920x1200, USB Hub Ports 2.

Who is the Avocent SC740 (4 Computers / Dual Monitor Secure KVM Switch) best suited to?

It suits government and defense desks needing entry-tier niap-certified isolation, 4-computer secure setups on a tighter budget than the sc900 series, it teams standardizing on vertiv's sc700 security platform.

What are the drawbacks of the Avocent SC740 (4 Computers / Dual Monitor Secure KVM Switch)?

It is a poor fit for desks needing hdmi instead of displayport (see the sc945h), anyone wanting audio switching, larger operations needing more than 4 computers (see the sc780).