The Thing With PCs
An increase in mobile device usage has led to the belief that the post-PC era is finally here. Some experts consider mobile shopping as an investment in the future. On the other hand, purchasing thick clients is viewed as an unwillingness to adopt change. Even then, there are users who prefer to get the job done through PCs instead of smartphones, laptops, and tablets. What’s more, they present an interesting argument in its favor. Why replace a perfectly functioning desktop computer with new systems which will require time and effort to get used to?
This is a valid point because traditional desktop devices are still the primary endpoints in an organization. Here’s the thing. It isn’t so much the fear of upgrading that has companies choosing legacy systems to this day. It is the uncertainty, perceived pain, and costs of shifting to new technologies. One such example is the decision to adopt Virtual Desktop Infrastructure VDI supported by Thin Client computing.
What about Thin Clients?
In reality, companies are showing a growing interest in solutions that enable them to upgrade their tech at a lower TCO. Small form factors with smaller footprints such as Thin Clients provide every opportunity for them to do so. Also, consider recent developments like the rising popularity of cloud storage and minimal hardware requirements of operating systems. To add to the list, we have the tools used to manage modern Thin Clients. All this presents these endpoints as a feasible alternative to traditional desktops. Now, the question is: how big is its market?
According to Cision, this market is expected to expand steadily at a CAGR of 1.8% between 2017 and 2023. By 2023, it would be worth 1.32 USD billion. The major reasons behind this growth are development strategies undertaken by its key players. These include agreements, partnerships, product launches, reduced cost, centralized management and increased IT systems security associated with using Thin Client computers.
Businesses have moved toward these endpoints to facilitate high performance and easy manageability in VDI setups. The reason is they work best in places where flexibility for support is needed. Let’s take two common examples into account. Firstly, you have users who require multiple USB devices beyond keyboards and mice. Next, there are those who must provide VPN connectivity as they work remotely or across different locations. The list is almost endless as there are so many things you can do with one of these devices. This is especially so, keeping in view the new configurations being introduced to the market by the day.
Thin Client Computing vs Desktop Computer
Let’s look at some facts. Thin Clients function as PC replacement technology by retaining the features that once made the latter so appealing to the masses. Back then, users were content with PC hardware as long as it was reliable. The only thing is: it integrated a hard drive that could not support a demanding environment without large-scale ruggedization. Furthermore, the fat client is vulnerable to security breaches, malware, virus attacks, and unauthorized access and misuse. The initial cost of setting up a PC-based system and expenses associated with managing one are on the high end. Then again, traditional desktop computing models come with their own applications and operating systems. So, IT must carry out extensive configuration in situations where:
- Applications are changed or upgraded.
- Peripheral devices are added or replaced.
Now, let’s look at what makes Thin Clients an appealing technology these days. Applications which you would install on PCs are pushed back onto a server which the client device accesses through network protocols. These make good use of the available bandwidth on a modern high-speed network. In turn, this allows the endpoint to fully render graphically intensive applications without compromising on high performance.
In short, this VDI client effectively eliminates the pain and anxiety of managing hardware. It becomes easier for IT to install new applications and identifying and troubleshooting software issues is a piece of cake. Designing and implementing policies for mobile usage has become simpler, thanks to the introduction of advanced mobile management solutions. This simplifies and secures management of endpoint devices in every desktop virtualization project plan. Furthermore, the deployment cost per seat of Thin Clients is more affordable than regular PCs. So, investing in this technology helps achieve long-term savings.
Looking Ahead
Your use of virtualization solutions should not be based on outdated information and ideologies. After all, businesses are always on the lookout for ways to increase operational security, efficiency, and profitability. Everything comes down to how vendors deliver resources that facilitate simplified, centralized and highly scalable management via an intuitive user interface. This has a lot to do with Thin Clients continuing to rise in popularity. There will be more awareness of how using them can provide all these, including:
- Reduced TCO.
- Maximized ROI.
- Enabling IT to exercise significant control over the information processing environment.
Even then, there are some companies that still need the flexibility and expand-ability of a fully powered desktop computer. The best and most scalable Thin Clients take your IT systems manageability to the next level by delivering both.
That is not all. Businesses not wanting to transition to a full-fledged VDI setup can receive the benefits of one by re-purposing PCs. This is where the ClearCube Cloud Desktop OS comes in handy. It transforms outdated tech into Thin Client terminals and saves money over purchasing new PCs and supporting products. This cost-effective software provides support for multiple connection protocols including Teradici PCoIP, VMware® Blast Extreme, Microsoft® Remote FX and many more. Such options further open up more possibilities for this technology and will continue to do so in the near future.
For more information on how you can implement a powerful VDI strategy, please get in touch with our team. We are online and ready to assist you with any queries you may have.
