software-based dual-monitor solution via LAN

Question

Does anyone know of a software-solution which makes it possible to use a monitor attached to another (running) PC via LAN in the same way as a second monitor?

My situation is this: I have a PC and a notebook. Sometimes it would be very convenient if I could use the PC's monitor as a second monitor from the notebook. I know that I can attach the monitor to the notebook, but I was thinking maybe there are is a software-based solution, e.g. a program (similar to remote desktop) which would run on the PC and notebook and which would allow me to use the PC's monitor from the notebook as if it were physically attached.

Update: I'm using windows 7.

Solution 1

Assuming you're running Windows, MaxiVista can do this:

MaxiVista turns any spare Desktop, Laptop or Netbook PC into a dual monitor for your primary computer. No extra multi monitor hardware is required. Simply extend program windows across multiple screens as if it were one big monitor. Increase your productivity by using multiple monitors.

MaxiVista is not free though.

There is also ZoneScreen but I've never used it and don't know how well it works.

Edit: Actually this question is a duplicate of many questions, as you can see by checking all questions whose answers mention MaxiVista :-) .

Solution 2

Spacedesk is exactly doing what you want!

Comments

[RohitS]

I too have used Synergy as a solution (mentioned by osij2is), it works great. Just make sure you read the instructions carefully, it can be confusing to configure it if you don't understand what you are doing.

[trh88]

I did not interpret his question as you did. Neither did Admin Alive. Thanks for the down vote. A simple explanation would've sufficed.

[M4N]

Snark is correct, this is not what I was looking for. But still interesting.

[M4N]

BTW: please feel free to edit/clarify my question if it's unclear (english is not my native language)

[Nick Bolton]

Even though synergy is not what the OP wants, you may also be interested in Synergy+

[Ricardo Rivaldo]

using this one already, it is very good. Thank you

[NotAPro]

This should be top answer.