Thin client computing has a long history compared to some of its technological counterparts, with the first use of the term thin client dating back to the early 1990s. The concept, as well as the hardware and software that accompany it, has undergone many adjustments and improvements over those years. Some IT experts feel the drawbacks outweigh the risks of this technology, while others believe it is the future of modern computing. Consider the following thin client FAQs in deciding where you fall in the conversation.
Thin Client FAQs: What You Need to Know
There are many factors to consider when evaluating if thin client computing is right for you. As the technology around virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) has improved, use of thin clients has increased, but many are still skeptical and unsure if users will be satisfied with the tools available in this framework. Let’s begin with the basics and move forward from there.
What is a thin client? A thin client is a small computer with limited data processing capability. Via the thin client, users access an operating system, applications, and data that reside on a central server within their corporate network.
What are the drawbacks and potential pitfalls of thin clients? Because the operating systems of all users are located in one place, there is a single point of failure, which can have significant repercussions if the company’s infrastructure was not designed in anticipation of this issue. A high initial cost can be a limiting factor, as can the need for constant connectivity. If the system is not properly designed and supported, user adoption may be hindered by frustrating downtime, slow processing, and other consequences of an unstable network. For these reasons, it is particularly important to work with an IT professional who understands your needs and who has deep experience in matching those needs with a proper solution.
What are the benefits of thin client computing? Thin client computing provides many potential advantages like these: enhanced security, streamlined IT management, and reduced storage space and energy. In addition, when implemented properly, thin client computing often means lower costs over the long haul.
Thin Client FAQs: Infrastructure
This kind of server-based computing system may save you money in IT management and user support over the long haul. However, it requires a significant initial investment in both system evaluation and architecture.
What factors in existing systems should be evaluated first? The available bandwidth and reliability of your network should be a primary consideration, as should the size and capacity of your servers. Backup methods and other fail-safes should also be evaluated before investing in a thin client operation.
A thorough knowledge on the part of your IT team of the many possible configurations of VDI will help ensure that you receive the maximum return on investment while minimizing potential problems.
Thin Client vs. Zero Client
After you have evaluated network and server capacity, the next consideration should be how your end users will access your company’s VDI.
Thin client vs. zero client: What’s the difference and which is right for my company? A zero client, or ultra-thin client, is a similar device to a thin client but with no operating system and more limited capabilities. It is however, cheaper and smaller, and can be useful under the right circumstances.
You might also consider other devices that can connect to your VDI, such as laptops and tablets. It is even possible to convert old laptops into thin clients and extend their use.
Can I Repurpose Old Equipment?
Simply connecting to your VDI using existing laptops or other equipment is an option, but this practice introduces security vulnerabilities and requires professional upkeep of the systems and applications found on those devices. However, there are software products available that enable you to convert outdated devices into thin clients. Igel is one such company, and offers hardware converting software, as well as other software to manage your VDI.
Should my company repurpose old equipment for thin clients? Consider this option as part of your overall VDI strategy. This approach can offset some of the initial cost of creating a VDI, especially if you have older equipment that will otherwise become obsolete.
What hardware specifications are required for conversion? The various conversion software options have different prerequisites for to-be-converted devices. Igel’s Universal Desktop Converter 3 (UDC3), for example, requires a 64-bit, x-86 compatible processor, as well as two GB each of RAM and flash-/HDD-memory and USB boot support. Evaluating options for conversion of existing devices should be part of the initial evaluation of the usefulness of a thin client approach for your company.
Thin Client FAQs: Use of Thin Clients
Will end users be successful at adapting to a thin client-based VDI environment? While the legal field has not been a traditional user of thin client technology, advances in technology have brought the model into a new light. With proper investment in research and infrastructure, strong support from management, and the ability to absorb the initial cost, thin clients are viable—and often preferable—option worth your consideration.