In the past decade, thin client computing has played a pivotal role in improving IT infrastructure. The model helps in driving efficiency, reducing cost, and enhancing mobility. Research on Global Thin Client Market by IDC revealed that organizations are deploying thin clients to save costs otherwise incurred by managing and maintaining PCs.
However, the adoption rate of thin client computing has remained relatively low. This is because of a few misconceptions regarding deployment of Thin Clients in the workplace, which has kept enterprises away from embracing the technology.
In this article, we are going to discuss some facts about thin clients and address the common misconceptions that prevent organizations from using these devices.
Rebuilding IT Infrastructure from Scratch
Most businesses come up with common questions such as; do they have to redesign their entire IT infrastructure from the very beginning? How much time will it require to deploy thin clients? How much IT support will they need in case of any discrepancies or tech failures?
Here is the thing. Deploying a thin client does not mean that you have to redesign and rebuild your IT landscape from scratch. It requires relatively less time to get systems up and running. At the same time, you can reduce IT support and workload complexities for the end user.
When it comes to introducing applications, desktops, users or services, just set up the thin client once and leverage the device whenever necessary. Moreover, thin clients also minimize the inspection of networks because administrators only need to address them on a single server rather than each individual PC.
Higher Costs
One cannot deny that IT upgrades are often a tedious and worrisome process. In a thin client setup, you do not really need to frequently repair, replace or maintain your equipment. The reason is Thin Clients have limited internal components, which means they are less likely to break. It will help you save cost in the long-run. Moreover, changes associated with company devices can be done gradually and not on a large scale at once.
Thin Clients are made of low-cost hardware as compared to fat clients. This leads to a reduction in power consumption as well as costs required for additional client terminals. Thin clients come in a minimalistic design that involves no moving parts and therefore require less maintenance, little technical support and last longer.
Transitioning IT infrastructure to a completely new setup is a tough decision, especially when companies have limited budgets. If there are doubts about whether a VDI environment is suitable for your business, a safe option is to go for PC Repurposing Software.
It helps you utilize your outdated computer or laptop and transform your tech into a secured and centrally managed thin client while connecting to any remote computer or backend system. Cloud Desktop OS allows you to switch to VDI environments without incurring huge costs. PC Repurposing is a quick and easy way to reap the benefits of VDI in a cost-competitive way, and it works well especially for startups.
Less Secure
A Thin Client server comprises a single endpoint, which might be vulnerable to security threats. Consider the risk involved in networks with multiple endpoints retaining data and applications. It would be difficult to oversee and manage these endpoints as compared to a single one.
This assumption is not true. With Thin Client devices, access to desktop applications is more secure and reliable. This is because of better datacenter security and the ability to shift to a backup server in case of any disruptions.
Thin Client devices, owing to their architecture, are also less vulnerable to viruses, malware, and worms. However, a thin client is of no use when disconnected from the network because there is no data inside the device. To prevent this, be sure to have a reliable network connection.
Moreover, costs and security risks are higher in using traditional systems when it comes to deploying applications on a number of servers and user devices. In the case of Thin Client solutions, sensitive data remains highly secure, thus reducing overall management expenses.
Note: government and military institutions usually demand high levels of security, due to sensitive data of the state and public. To add more security to VDI environments, you can always consider using Zero Clients instead of Thin Clients. They are more secure as they do not need frequent updates or have removable storage on the device.
Low on Performance
Loss of performance is usually associated with thin client devices, which is again a common misconception. According to general perception, those who work on multimedia (HD Videos, animations, graphics) in VDI environments can overburden the servers, causing poor performance.
However, Thin Client technology has proved to be faster and more efficient as it is able to run bigger applications without compromising on efficiency and performance. Furthermore, virtualized applications offer high definition and enhanced user experience from any device on any network.
Even for high graphics and multimedia content, thin clients offer seamless experience without any interruptions or delays. For instance, ClearCube CD8815 is an enterprise-grade Thin Client capable of delivering dynamic computing and graphics performance in VDI setups.
Mobile Devices make Thin Clients Outdated
With multiple configurations to choose from in the market, Thin Client Computing is ideal for both small and large organizations. However, in big companies, an overwhelming number of employees work on different mobile devices such as iPads, notebooks, and laptops, which might lead to potential security risks.
How is this so? Mobile devices are susceptible to unauthorized user access, device theft, viruses, and data theft. Thin Client technology supports the use of mobile devices and ensures the protection of potential external threats. This is because information and applications are stored on a centralized server.
To Thin Client or not to Thin Client?
Businesses must address today’s fast-paced landscape and the rising cost of operations in order to stay ahead of competitors. Traditional IT infrastructure is becoming outdated which can, not only increase costs, but also result in less flexibility, mobility, and scalability.
However, when it comes to Thin Client computing, you receive unparalleled flexibility, performance, scalability, and efficiency benefits. Transitioning from old infrastructure to a new one does not involve staggering expenses and doing so can reduce your TCO.
After addressing the misconceptions regarding thin client, we recommend you to go for it without a second thought. However, it is your choice whether you go for Thin Client or still rely on traditional IT infrastructure.
ClearCube Technology provides assistance to enterprises in deploying the right Thin Client solution for their IT infrastructure. You can request a Free Demo by simply filling out our form.
