What is a thin client?

A thin client is a computer that is connected to a server through a network. The thin client communicates with the server and uses its resources. Local work is not intended on a thin client. We’ll discuss the definition of thin client, its advantages and disadvantages and how to use it.

Thin client overview

A thin client is a type of client. It is a simple computer with a network card and peripherals. It only has a few local resources and relies on access to a server. While a fat client allows users to work self-sufficiently, a thin client does not.

The interaction between client and server and task distribution within a network describes the client-server-model.

How does a thin client work?

Thin clients are endpoints. They provide the interface between a user and the server’s computing capacity. The server acts as a terminal server and provides virtualised desktops. Special protocols make the communication between thin client and server possible. The Remote Desktop Protocol developed by Microsoft enables Remote Desktop Connection with a computer that has Windows installed as its operating system. The protocols allow an off-site computer screen to be transferred and controlled.

Thin clients have a reduced and restricted operating system. Their main function is to connect to peripheral devices. Choosing a suitable operating system is flexible. Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 IoT and Linux are popular choices.

There are special kinds of thin clients. There isn’t a clear distinction between the different types of clients. The zero client is the culmination of the thin client concept. The zero client usually has one firmware installed and it is completely targeted at the client provider’s server platform.

Advantages

Companies and organisations use thin clients for several reasons. Large enterprises benefit from using them for the following reasons.

Cost savings and emissions reduction

Thin clients are relatively inexpensive due to their reduced equipment, for example, the fan and hard drive. They are also cheaper to run due to lower power consumption. Another benefit is less heat waste and reduced noise. These effects are becoming greater with the increasing number of thin clients.

Centralisation of IT

It is simple to operate a thin client. The only software installed locally is for access to the server. The other required applications are located centrally on the server. It is also easy to roll out important updates. This makes the systems easy to maintain and administer. Thin clients are less likely to have faults, require less maintenance and are easier to troubleshoot.

The security of the system

A thin client has a severely limited operating system. This greatly reduces the number of vulnerabilities. The risks when working with a thin client are largely neutralised, in comparison to a fat client. The cybersecurity can be implemented centrally and independently of the individual client.

Mobile work

A thin client enables mobile working. Users can work from any location as long as a thin client or end device is available there. Mobile access to the virtual environment is also possible and gives users access to applications on business trips. In addition, thin clients are easy to transport thanks to their compactness.

Disadvantages

Performance losses

Be aware that not every application is suitable for client-server operation on thin clients. Applications with high demands on graphics performance are not intended for operation on servers. The amount of data that can be transferred over the network is also a deciding factor. However, the continuous development in virtualisation solutions is focused on these problems.

Dependence on server and network

The thin client’s reliance on a server is a disadvantage when network problems or server failures occur. A server failure means all dependent clients go down. In addition, the server relies on a good quality mobile network or Wi-Fi when travelling.

Where are thin clients used?

Thin clients are often used in companies with a lot of employees, and they enable access to virtualised desktop environments. The office applications run on a virtual work environment. The company may have its own IT department that administers the system and provides troubleshooting, or there is an external service provider that is responsible for operating the thin clients and associated servers.

Applications that require high graphics performance do not fall into the scope of application. The transfer rate of the network is a limiting factor. In addition, operating programs for creating CAD models on servers have additional licensing costs.

The thin client market share is rising steadily. It makes sense for an increasing number of application scenarios due to the rising cost pressure on companies. Developing virtualisation technologies and improving network technology and network quality are beginning to eliminate the disadvantages associated with thin clients.

How does the thin client differ from a fat client?

The fat client and the thin client are often compared when potential users are choosing a suitable client. Both clients differ in their essential functions. The following table compares them: