What is Thin Client Computing?

With thin client computing data is stored centrally on the server with the software applications also being run centrally on the server. Only keyboard, video and mouse updates which are small data files are transmitted across the network. The servers network connection is the only one that needs high network bandwidth with slower throughput being acceptable for clients.

Thin client software such as Citrix, Terminal Services etc. will securely access the server via the LAN and or WAN and permits local printing, audio and device support.

What are the Benefits of Thin Client Computing?

With traditional client/server networks software applications are usually stored locally on the client PC with data being stored centrally on the fileserver. When a data file is opened by a client PC the entire file is transferred across the network with any changes being saved back to the server. This can require high bandwidth to each PC which if not available means data delivery is slow and glitchy which will frustrate the user.

Thin client computing can deliver a reduced total cost of ownership. This includes not only the up-front cost of the hardware but also the price of installation and support. Other benefits include;

• Low initial purchase price (starting from around £139)
• Outstanding reliability - less likely to fail with no moving parts
• Information Security - no applications or data are held locally so they are immune to threats and viruses
• Easy to administer and can be remotely managed and supported giving control back to the in house or sub-contract IT Manager
  
• Bandwidth usage is minimal compared to usual PC/server environments
• Power consumption is typically 25% of that needed by a traditional PC
• Licensing is much simpler with centrally controlled applications
• Data backup and restore is centralised
• Speed of deployment, repair and replacement
• Client devices are less attractive to theft