What is a thin client? Nope, it’s not a skinny customer. A thin client is simply a device that uses a remote server for its compute, and not a local hard drive. Organizations use thin clients to access virtual desktops and perform tasks that traditionally have needed a more high-powered computer.
Let’s look at some advantages of thin clients.
Size
Thin clients are, as you would think, physically tiny. This means that in areas where you don’t have a lot of space to work with, thin clients can provide a user with access to a machine without taking up much room. In addition, since thin clients hand off the heavy lifting to a server, they don’t require as much “breathing room” for the fans to cool the internals of the machine. If a business work-space is located within an industrial environment where dust and debris might hamper the function of a normal computer, a thin client could be the right choice.
Reduced Cost
Since thin client devices have few internal parts, in the long run they will save OpEx. There just aren’t that many ways that the device can physically break. With no moving internal parts and the OS and software on the server, they take much longer to become outdated than a typical PC. They’re easy to plug in and set up (you won’t need to burden your valuable IT guy with this).
More Secure
The weakest link in security of a network is the human using it. Clicking on the wrong link, plugging in an unknown thumb drive, and accidentally installing malware is always a threat with PCs. Using thin clients, users only have access to the server via a network connection controlled by the customer and its chosen vendor. Customers can therefore define rigorous security rules to make sure malware and other problems are kept out.
Easy Management
When every worker has their own computer, IT departments spend significant time and resources dealing with the possibility of every computer hitting an issue – whether hardware, software, or both. With thin clients, everyone remotely connects to a server which means far less time is spent on setup, patches, and resolving common issues.
Since everything is centrally located your infrastructure runs more efficiently. When thin clients do need replacement, they are easily swapped out for another machine and it’s a quick moment to plug in keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
The great thing is since all data is stored on the server, you don’t lose anything if a thin client is destroyed in a disaster, is lost, or is stolen.
Lean and Green
Thin clients use much less power than standard PCs. They also produce less heat than a desktop of notebook and they do not need mechanical parts replaced.
This greener operating model is highly valued in today’s business world.
Conclusion
For organizations looking to save money, simplify network management, and increase data security, thin clients are a solid option.
Reach out to us at (410) 834-8111, or info@palmertelecom.com to discuss how your business might benefit from a thin client system.
