Virtualization technology is enabling new interest in thin client implementations. This note explores the different virtualization approaches to thin client deployment and their individual pros and cons. The approaches explored include:
- Application Streaming: applications are delivered on demand to user terminals.
- Application and Operating System Streaming: Operating systems and/or applications are delivered on demand to user terminals.
- Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): PC operating systems and software are installed on virtual machines (VMs) which are hosted on data center servers and accessed from user terminals.
- Application/OS Provisioning: applications are delivered on demand to a server hosting virtual machines which are then accessed by user terminals.
As virtualization technology evolves, enterprises should explore the new options that are available for thin client deployment.