How auto discovery works
CursorHop uses an mDNS-style (multicast DNS) protocol to broadcast its presence on your local network. When you launch CursorHop on a computer, it sends a discovery announcement to the local subnet. Other CursorHop instances on the same network hear this announcement and respond, establishing a connection automatically.
The entire process takes about one second. You install CursorHop, open it, and your other computers appear in the device list. Click to connect, and you are ready to share your mouse and keyboard.
Zero configuration
There is nothing to configure. You do not need to know your computer's IP address, set up a static IP, open router ports, or edit any configuration file. CursorHop handles all network negotiation internally. This is the way software should work — install it and it works.
No IP addresses to type
Traditional tools require you to enter the server computer's IP address on each client machine. If your router assigns a new IP via DHCP, the connection breaks and you have to reconfigure. CursorHop avoids this entirely — discovery is dynamic and adapts to IP changes automatically.
Works on Wi-Fi and Ethernet
Auto discovery works on any local network topology. Both computers on Wi-Fi, both on Ethernet, or one of each — it does not matter. As long as the computers are on the same subnet (which is the default for any home or office network), they will find each other. The discovery protocol uses multicast packets that reach all devices on the local network.
Contrast with manual setup tools
Traditional alternatives require a server-client architecture where you designate one computer as the server and manually configure each client with the server's IP address and hostname. If anything changes — a new IP, a hostname update, a network switch — you have to reconfigure. CursorHop treats all computers as peers and discovers them automatically.
Instant reconnection
If a computer disconnects (rebooted, went to sleep, or moved to a different room), CursorHop detects the absence and automatically reconnects when the computer comes back online. There is no manual reconnection step. Wake your laptop from sleep, bring it back to your desk, and CursorHop reconnects within seconds.
Discovery across plans
Auto discovery is available on all plans, including the free trial. The free trial includes full Pro features and discovers up to 2 computers. Pro Plus handles 5, and Max supports up to 10. The discovery mechanism is identical across all tiers — only the connection limit changes.