Microsoft Terminal Services featuring Hardware and Software Solutions from HP-Compaq, Wyse, and Visara

Evolution of the Corporate Network
Not too long ago, most corporate data networks were based on mainframe computers with so-called “dumb terminals” that provided only a rudimentary user interface, offered little scalability and even less flexibility.

The advent of peer-to-peer PC networking changed the face of the corporate network by giving users the power to “multi-task”; utilizing a wide variety of software applications and network resources all on a single machine. But for all it’s advantages, PC networking introduced new problems of it’s own.

For every networked PC there is a certain amount of maintenance and management that is absolutely necessary to assure reliability and service. Even managing small networks can require a large investment of time and resources when you consider factors such as virus prevention, hardware upgrades, service packs, and security updates, not to mention the occasional human error.

Why Thin Clients?
Unlike “dumb terminals” Thin Clients provide users with a familiar Microsoft Windows desktop interface, and access to all of the applications and resources available in a traditional desktop environment.

But, the single greatest advantage that Thin Clients present over traditional PC workstations is a Centralized Management Model that offers rapid software deployment, upgrades, and desktop management. In simple terms, data and software is stored only on a server, so upgrades and updates are immediately available to end users.

The Centralized Management Model also expedites hardware deployment since each new Thin Client added to the network utilizes the software and resources that are already installed on the server. Rather than wasting hours installing software on a new workstation, users can simply plug a Thin Client into the network, log onto the server, and start using the same software that’s available to all of the other users on the network.