Desktop Alternatives: Thin Client

If you’re looking for a low cost, low maintenance option with speedy implementation, a Thin Client solution may be just right for your business. A thin client is much like a desktop PC, except that the only software installed on the thin client is the user interface, frequently used applications, and a networked operating system. With a thin client, the server(s) holds all the applications, services, and data. This provides centralized storage and backup and enables companies to maximize servers that are typically underutilized, resulting in streamlined system management, lower costs, and better security. Thin clients are especially ideal for schools and businesses that need to maximize the number of workstations they can purchase on a fixed budget.

Thin Client Benefits:

  • Central storage and backup
  • Enhanced security
  • Low cost to implement
  • Inexpensive to maintain
  • Reduced hardware cost and waste over system lifecycle
  • Increased server efficiency
  • Low power consumption - with some models using 85 percent less power than their PC rivals*

* Source: Desktop Energy Consumption - A Comparison of Thin Clients and PCs
Prepared For Wyse Technology Inc., 2009