What is a thin client?

A thin client is a computer designed primarily for accessing software and resources remotely over a network, rather than running applications locally on its own hardware. It’s called “thin” because its role requires only a simple, lightweight design. And lightweight specs too.

What’s the difference between a thin client and a thick client?

In the context of thin-client computing, the terms “thick client” (or “fat client”, or “rich client”) may be used to describe a computer that runs its own operating system and applications, and stores data on its own internal hard disk.

Why would you use a thin client?

Thin-client hardware is cheap and simple, reducing purchasing and energy costs for businesses. Companies can also gain efficiencies by hosting a central pool of server-based processing and storage resources for all workers, rather than giving a complete computer to each employee.

Related reading: How ScalaHosting can provide the flexibility website owners need

Are thin clients easy to manage?

Thin clients often run a stripped-down operating system whose sole function is to enable access to remote applications; this means there’s very little need for desktop support, compared to conventional thick clients. Simple, integrated hardware designs are also less prone to hardware issues than full-fat personal computers, and if a unit does fail it can be instantly swapped out. A thin-client architecture does require businesses to manage and maintain server-side applications and user profiles, but this is generally more efficient than managing dozens or hundreds of individual systems.

What are the disadvantages of thin-client computing?

Thin-client computing requires a fast, robust network connection: if the company LAN goes down, employees using thin-client hardware may be completely unable to work. Connectivity issues can also affect home workers using domestic internet connections, or travellers who may not have reliable network access in all locations. 

Can a thin client use Wi-Fi?

Thin clients can work over any type of connection supported by the underlying OS, and that includes Wi-Fi. However, if Wi-Fi coverage is patchy then interactive services may provide sluggish or glitchy performance, damaging users’ productivity and general satisfaction.

Can you install a printer on a thin client?

Because thin-client platforms don’t tend to run full desktop operating systems, you can’t necessarily expect plug-and-play support for peripherals such as printers or scanners. However, it may be possible to use them with server-side drivers.

Do thin clients have storage?

Thin clients normally have only enough storage to accommodate the local operating system. And for reasons of security and reliability, this may be configured as read-only – so from the user’s point of view the client may well have no accessible storage. The expectation is that they will create, store and access all documents and files on the remote system.

What is the difference between a thin client, a zero client and a dumb terminal?

While a thin client has minimal storage, a zero client has none at all. Its embedded firmware handles the network connection; beyond that, the system acts solely as a remote display, keyboard and mouse for an OS and applications running on the server. A client like this may also be called a dumb terminal, although that’s a more old-fashioned phrase that suggests a text-only interface.

What are the three types of thin client?

The classic model of thin-client computing involves users logging on to a central server, which hosts the main OS and applications. This is often called a shared services or terminal services architecture.

An alternative is the virtual desktop approach; here, each user has their own installation of the OS and applications, just as they would with a personal computer. However, their personal environment is hosted inside a virtual machine running on the server and is always accessed over the network.

A third type of thin-client architecture is the browser-based model, where application services are provided via a web interface. This enables them to be accessed from any device capable of running a standard web browser.

How much does a thin client cost?

Basic thin-client systems can cost as little as £100, from suppliers such as Dell, HP or Thin Client Shop. That price includes a keyboard and mouse, plus enough RAM and storage to run a remote desktop session. The system may also come preinstalled with an appropriate operating system, such as Windows IoT Enterprise or a minimal Linux derivative. If you need a more powerful computer that can also run local applications, compact, low-power PCs range in price from £200 to upwards of £500.

Is a laptop a thick or thin client?

A laptop running Windows or macOS would normally be considered a “thick” client, as it can run applications and store data locally, without needing a network connection. However, it can also access thin-client services, either using remote viewer software such as Microsoft’s Remote Desktop or via a web-based approach.

Is a Chromebook a thin client? Is a Raspberry Pi a thin client?

Chromebooks and Raspberry Pi systems are popular choices for thin-client duties. They’re cheap to buy and easy to manage and come with built-in support for browser-based client computing. It’s also possible to install software on them to access a virtual desktop. However, these devices can’t be solely categorised as thin clients, as they also run applications locally and support local storage and peripherals.

Related reading: All Chromebook Plus laptops compared

How do I turn my computer into a thin client?

You can access thin-client services from almost any computer, using either a web browser or suitable remote viewer software. So if you want to turn your computer into a dedicated thin client, all you need to do is disable any extraneous software and services, disconnect any unneeded peripherals and components, and configure the OS to automatically connect to a remote host at startup.

Can I install Windows on a thin client?

Most commercial thin-client systems use commodity hardware, so in theory, they might be able to run a desktop OS. However, such systems are normally locked down to prevent tampering – and since they’re equipped with low-power CPUs, and minimal memory and storage, the user experience of running Windows would likely be poor. 

Are thin clients good for gaming?

Although the thin-client concept has historically been associated with big corporations, it’s gaining popularity in online gaming. Streaming services such as Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud and Nvidia’s GeForce Now allow subscribers to enjoy state-of-the-art 3D experiences on cheap, lightweight hardware, with the demanding graphical processing handled by a remote server. It’s quite possible that, within a few years, the thin-client model will be the norm for video games.

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