Netwerkterminals

Netwerkterminals, or network terminals, are client devices designed primarily to access resources hosted on a network rather than to perform substantial local computation. They present an interface for users to interact with remote servers or applications, and often rely on central services such as a terminal server, a desktop virtualization platform, or a mainframe host.

Historically these devices were simple character terminals connected to mainframes via serial or network links; today they are more likely thin clients, network computers, or software clients that run a minimal operating system and boot from the network. They can display graphical desktop sessions, administer remote consoles, or provide access to specialized apps via protocols such as SSH, RDP, VNC, or X11.

In modern deployments, netwerkterminals are used for centralized management, improved security, and energy efficiency. IT departments can deploy a single image to all terminals, enforce updates, and monitor usage from a central server. Devices include dedicated hardware thin clients and software clients on general-purpose hardware.

Advantages and limitations: Advantages include centralized resources, simplified maintenance, consistent user environments, and reduced local storage. Limitations include reliance on network connectivity and server capacity, potential latency, and the need for robust security and access control.

Related topics include thin clients, desktop virtualization, terminal emulation, and network computers.