February 4, 2002
(Computerworld)
Server-based applications feeding thin-client systems can cut hardware maintenance and upgrade costs. Read how IT departments are seeing fewer end-user problems and better control over applications and data using such deployments.
Tech Check
Is thin-client computing sufficiently scalable and robust for mission-critical enterprise use? Yes and no, say users.
Is Thin Client Enterprise-Ready?
Sure, thin clients offer a lot of advantages. But are they good enough and scalable enough for critical enterprise applications?
Case Study: Cleaning Up Remote Sites
One company's thin-client implementation has allowed it to simplify software updates and expand corporate e-mail.
Case Study: Big Bank, Slim Software
Wells Fargo is using Citrix MetaFrame to cut branch office servers and reduce total cost of ownership by 75%.
Case Study: Feeding Off the System
With servers in Italy and clients in Pakistan, the World Food Bank shows it can move in and set up shop in a matter of hours.
Q&A: The X Factor Online exclusive
Computerworld asked Steve Swales, chairman of X.org and a senior manager at Sun Microsystems, about the strengths and limitations of the X Window System standard for thin-client computing—and how it will evolve.
Thin Clients for Tough Times Online exclusive
Computerworld asked Steve Kaplan, a vice president and general manager at Vector ESP Inc. and co-author of Citrix MetaFrame for Windows Terminal Services: The Official Guide, about what thin clients can and can't do.
Tarantella: Beyond Windows Online exclusive
A middleware approach to thin client offers considerably more than just Windows applications.
Thin-Client Software Online exclusive
A look at several different thin-client systems.
$497 million
Total virtual user interface software sold in 2000.
15.4%
Compound annual growth rate through 2005.
$497 million
Percent of virtual user interface software sold for Windows operating systems.
Steady Growth: Virtual user interface software revenues, 2001 - 2005
Year
$millions
2000
497
2001
582
2002
675
2003
776
2004
892
2005
1017
Source: IDC