Thin Client Computing

Thin client computing is a server-centric computing model in which the application software, data, and CPU power reside on a network server rather than on the client computer. Thin clients are analogous to, but much superior to, mainframe computing using dumb terminals. Thin client applications and data storage run on the server behind data center firewalls. Thin clients are powerful enough to operate with web, Windows, UNIX, and Linux applications. They include PC-like GUIs, keyboard and mouse, and are capable of handling terminal emulations.

Datatrend is a provider of thin client solutions, including the thin clients themselves as well as the server-side software that manages the connection between the thin clients and the servers, as well as the management of the devices.

How It Works

All software applications and data are retrieved from a central server, and all data entered with keystrokes and mouse clicks is saved on the same central server. The data and software will look and feel the same as on a PC for any user on the network, which makes it easier for users to work in multiple locations. Thin Clients only need to run the operating system software locally, and have no hard drives or floppy drives. Thin client computing permits local printing, audio and serial device support, web browsing, terminal emulation and can combine local processing with network computing.

Features and Benefits:

• Data Security - Since there are no data drives, thin clients are protected from the use of unauthorized software or the introduction of viruses. Data cannot be copied to a disk or saved to any location other than the central server. Furthermore, centralized processing makes it easy to manage and monitor system access and to enforce security policies and procedures, so that internal security risk is minimized.
• Accessibility - All software maintenance, upgrades and virus protection are performed on the server, which makes it much easier and cost-effective for IT managers to keep networks running smoothly and efficiently by performing tasks such as software installations and upgrades remotely rather than having to visit each end-user device.
• Less Downtime and Greater Efficiency - In the event of a disaster, recovery is much more immediate, because data backups are handled on the central server. If a thin client terminal is damaged or destroyed, a new one can be configured automatically without the physical presence of IT assistance.
• Economical and Green - Thin clients cost less to purchase than PCs, and since they have no moving parts to break down, they have a longer lifespan. Software upgrades and backups can be handled by IT staff at the central server, dramatically reducing support costs. Thin clients also use one-seventh of the power required by PCs.

Also check out our Desktop Virtualization solutions page.