In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, small business owners find themselves juggling multiple tasks and tight deadlines. With the surge in artificial intelligence and high-demand software applications, the strain on computing resources can hinder productivity. Enter Intel’s Thunderbolt™ Share software, a new solution that simplifies multitasking and optimizes the use of multiple PCs, allowing users to seamlessly connect and control two Windows® devices with a single keyboard, mouse, and storage.
As Lyle Warnke, a technical marketing engineer at Intel, noted, “This whole idea of developers and AI and moving mass amounts of data is huge for Thunderbolt Share.” By using Thunderbolt Share, small business owners can significantly enhance efficiency when working with large data sets, without the complications that come with relying on Wi-Fi networks, external drives, or cloud storage. The software offers a direct, private connection between PCs, emphasizing security and speed.
The software operates through Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 ports, which resemble standard USB-C ports but deliver vastly superior bandwidth—up to 80 gigabits per second with Thunderbolt 5. This high-speed connection enables users to transfer data and control devices with minimal latency, facilitating more effective workflows. Small business owners leveraging intensive applications such as AI, video editing, or 3D rendering can find the advantages manifold, especially when working across multiple systems.
Perhaps the most immediate benefit is the software’s ability to easily link PCs for screen and resource sharing. “This is the productivity part that we see for business users that’s so great,” Warnke explained. Creatives and professionals can dedicate specific machines to distinct tasks while still maximizing their workspace. An artist may operate a powerful desktop for high-demand tasks, while a laptop can handle emails and presentations without needing to switch between devices.
Intel’s general manager of Client Connectivity Division, Ben Hacker, emphasized the convenience this brings to creators: “If I’m a creator, I have a laptop and a desktop simultaneously running multiple applications; my laptop may be running different applications than my desktop, but I want to use them together.” With Thunderbolt Share, it’s easier than ever to control various devices fluidly, negating the need for expensive switching equipment.
For everyday tasks, the software stands to save time as well. Users can drag and drop files between computers effortlessly, sync entire folders, or transition quickly to a new device, minimizing downtime. This practicality is further amplified by the security it offers—without having to worry about the fate of an external hard drive or the vulnerabilities of third-party file transfer sites, sensitive information remains secure between connected PCs.
However, small business owners should approach Thunderbolt Share with an understanding of its limitations. The software requires at least one Thunderbolt Share-licensed PC or accessory, which may necessitate additional investments if existing computers are not compatible. The explosion of advanced technology can sometimes create bewildering choices, and business owners must evaluate whether the upgrades align with their operational needs.
Moreover, while Thunderbolt ports are becoming increasingly common, not all devices are equipped with them, potentially limiting access for some users. Businesses will need to weigh the cost of new hardware against the anticipated productivity gains. Despite these factors, the initial rollout includes a variety of licensed PCs and docks, with more expected to become available in the coming years.
For gamers, Thunderbolt Share opens a new realm of possibilities. The software allows for simultaneous operation of gaming and streaming setup on separate devices, ensuring optimal performance during complex tasks. This capacity showcased at Intel’s Tech Showcase at CES 2025, where gaming and streaming were executed flawlessly across devices, illustrates the potential for small business owners involved in content creation and streaming services.
As Thunderbolt Share continues to gain traction, it recently clinched the prestigious CES Innovation Award in the Computer Hardware and Components category. This recognition reinforces its promise as a cutting-edge tool for enhancing productivity within the small business community, merging the need for efficiency with the growing requirements of an interconnected digital workspace. For small business owners, leveraging this innovative software may very well pave the way for substantial workflow improvements and enhanced multitasking capabilities.
For a deeper dive into the specifics of Thunderbolt Share, check out the original announcement from Intel here.
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