Thin Client Computing is not new. In fact it was the original way that access to centralised computing ("Mainframes") was facilitated. Strangely enough, today's Cloud first business IT strategies share many similarities with the old Mainframe environments of the pre 1990's tech revolution making Thin Clients as relevant today as they were in the 60's, 70's and 80s.
This comprehensive guide explores the business criteria for adopting thin clients, their advantages, potential challenges, and the key requirements for a successful implementation.
Understanding Thin Clients
Thin clients are lightweight computing devices that rely on central servers for most processing and storage tasks. Unlike traditional PCs, thin clients have minimal local hardware - typically consisting of just a monitor, network card, mouse, and keyboard. Being minimalised, they consume very little power, are silent, quick to boot and store no data.
Types of Thin Clients
- Zero clients: Devices with minimal firmware that boot directly from the network - these are the most commonly deployed in general business environments
- Browser-based clients: Standard devices using web browsers to access services - more advanced version of the "zero" client. Google Chromeboxes and Chromebooks fall into this category
- Shared terminal services: Simple stations for specific tasks and applications - think information kiosks.
What to Look for in a Thin Client
Selecting the "best" thin client is similar to selecting the best laptop - have a clear understanding of the true requirements, the nice-to-have features and an eye for future capabilities.
The key areas to consider are:
- Number and specification of monitors supported: Consider the need for dual or triple monitors, interface types are expected and any resolution requirements for the application set that will be required;
- Peripheral Support: The number, location and type of USB ports will have a large impact on user acceptance. Most thin clients provide excellent support for 3rd party keyboard and mice. Support for webcams, headsets and hardware security keys is a little more device specific.
- Application delivery method: Thin clients rely on accessing the central servers for computing, depending on what central server technology is in use, the selected thin client will need to support this. Support for solutions such as Microsoft RDP, Citrix, VMWare, AWS Workspaces, PCoIP are common, however, there is variance in the level of feature support in each platform.
- Power requirements: The amount of power required and how it is delivered are important - some thin clients can be powered from the network (POE) reducing the need for power packs and on-desk cabling.
- Zero-Touch deployment: Being able to drop-ship devices to locations and be able to have them "just work" from power-on is likely to be a key requirement.
- Over-the-shoulder-support: Having access to a secure connection that enables either remote control, or visibility of the thin client screen may be an essential component of your operational support requirements.
- Firmware upgrade process: There will be occasions when the firmware of the thin clients needs to be updated (be it for functionality or security reasons). Ideally, this process should not require a physical visit to each device.
- Configuration management: Central control and simplified management is a core capability of thin clients, however, maintaining control over deployed configurations and variance between sites needs to be considered.
- Warranty & replacement options: - While warranty term is important, speed of access to replacement hardware may be more critical - especially in remote/regional locations.
- Availability of Supply: Supply chain issues befall all manufacturers at some stage. Be aware of manufacturer/model distribution options, availability and in-country stock holdings.
Thin Client Manufacturers
Over the past decade or so, the following manufacturers have shown a continued commitment to innovation, production and support of thin client devices for the Australian market:
- Amazon (*ETA 2025Q1)
- Dell (Wyse)
- Fujitsu
- HP
- iGel
- Lenovo
- Samsung
Each of the above manufacturers have thin client devices with starting price points at $550 (ex GST, 2024Q3).
Key Benefits of Thin Client Adoption
Successful deployment of Thin Clients into an organisation brings a number of core benefits, among the most valued are:
Enhanced Security
- Centralized data storage reduces the risk of local data breaches
- Limited ability for users to install unauthorized software
- Improved control over data access and monitoring
Cost Reduction
- Lower initial hardware costs compared to full PCs
- Reduced energy consumption and associated expenses
- Decreased IT support and maintenance costs
Simplified Management
- Centralised administration of applications and updates
- Easier support for remote and hybrid work models
- Streamlined deployment and maintenance processes
Extended Hardware Lifespan
- Thin clients typically last 6-10 years, longer than traditional PCs
- Reduced need for frequent hardware upgrades
- Cheaper disposal costs as no requirement for data wipes
Improved Productivity
- Consistent user experience across all locations
- Quick recovery and work resumption in case of device failure
Are Thin Clients suitable for my Organisation?
Lets be clear, a Thin Client approach is not for everyone! Organisations well-suited for thin client deployment exhibit a number of the following characteristics:
- Distributed and/or rapidly changing workforce
- Data security requirements that may include restrictions on where data can be stored
- Standardised application usage (e.g., single ERP or CRM system used by majority)
- Cost-sensitive IT budget
- Limited technical support capabilities in remote locations
- Frequent application refresh cycles
In practical experience, we have seen Organisations as small as 10 users gain significant benefit from a thin client/centralised computing solution, conversely, we have also worked with large organisations where there was little benefit. There is no simple, one approach fits all businesses. It is an area where there is no substitute for the hard won experience of a consulting team who've been there before.
Considerations and Potential Challenges
While thin clients offer significant advantages, businesses should be aware of the following potential challenges - not all will be relevant, but they do not careful consideration and potential mitigation before the first thin client hits a desk!
1. Network Dependency
- Reliance on continuous network connectivity
- Performance issues during network interruptions
2. Server Infrastructure
- Initial setup costs for robust and reliable server infrastructure
- Need for high-performance servers and redundant systems
3. Application Compatibility
- Some software may not be compatible with thin client environments
- Limited suitability for tasks requiring high local computational power
4. User Experience
- Potential latency issues, especially with graphic-intensive applications
- Limited flexibility for user customization
5. Bandwidth Requirements
- Substantial collective bandwidth needs in large-scale deployments
Requirements for Successful Deployment
To ensure a smooth deployment of thin client based computing, the following focus areas are key:
- Robust network infrastructure: high reliability with sufficient bandwidth for peak usage. Be mindful that Thin Clients tend to have sustained bandwidth utilisation rather than peaks and throughs as is associated with traditional computing
- Scalable and redundant server architecture: as processing for all user sessions is handled by the core servers, they MUST be resilient, have sufficient compute and memory capacity to handle expected load and ideally be able to scale (both up and down) to effectively manage peaks and reduce costs during lulls.
- Comprehensive security measures: the security requirements and approach for user access are similar to a traditional computing environment, the main area of difference is in administrative and support access.
- User training and change management programs: a well deployed thin client environment will provide a user experience that, is comparable to a traditional windows experience. Areas that require review and user engagement typically involve personal application preferences, specialised peripherals and data ingress/egress.
- Evaluation of application compatibility and performance requirements: Organisations without a clear Standardised Operating Environment (SOE) for their application stack may face challenges with efficient management of the centralised computing environment. As the environment is shared between many users, compromises and additional testing may be necessary to arrive at a solution that works for everyone. Care will be required if high quality graphical applications or real-time video collaboration are core requirements.
- Effective print management solutions: having a clear set of policies on who is allowed to print where is essential - as thin client devices rarely support windows print drivers, there may be a requirement for the pre-installation of known print drivers and settings into the centralised servers. Alternately, recent cloud based print systems can allow for just-in-time management of printing to (almost) any location.
- Planning for peripheral integration and support: similar to effective print management, an understanding of any core peripheral requirements is essential. The thin clients themselves may not recognise the device, or provide local support natively, however, many are able to "pass-thru" the connection to the centralised server environment and utilise the deployed drivers.
Use Cases and Applications
Thin clients (and the associated centralised computing) are particularly well-suited for:
- Call centers and customer service operations
- Health and Aged care environments requiring secure access to patient data
- Financial institutions with strict compliance and security needs
- Educational institutions managing multiple computer labs
- Retail environments with point-of-sale systems
- Manufacturing facilities requiring access to centralized data and applications
Conclusion
Thin client computing remains a compelling solution in the age of "Cloud First" IT strategies for organisations seeking to optimise their IT infrastructure, enhance security, and reduce edge hardware related costs.
By carefully evaluating the core needs, addressing potential challenges, and implementing a well-planned transition strategy, businesses can leverage the benefits of thin client technology. This in turn drives efficiency and productivity across their operations reducing business as usual IT spend and enabling innovation in other areas.
As the cloud first strategies of many organisations evolve, thin clients are likely to play an increasingly important role - offering flexible and scalable solution for businesses of all sizes.
