XenApp

XenApp is a line of application virtualization software from Citrix that delivers Windows applications from a centralized server to end users over a network. Rather than installing an application on each client device, XenApp hosts the application on a server or virtual machine and streams its user interface to the user’s device using the ICA/HDX protocol. Users interact with published applications as if they were running locally, while execution occurs on the host server.

Architecture and components: A typical XenApp deployment includes Delivery Controllers that manage application publishing and session lifecycle, Virtual Delivery Agents installed on server OS instances to host the apps, and a central data store (often a SQL database) containing configuration data. End users access published apps through a storefront such as StoreFront or the Citrix Workspace app. Licensing is managed by a Citrix License Server. Administration is performed with Citrix Studio, and monitoring with Citrix Director. Publishable apps can be delivered as RemoteApp programs or, in some configurations, as full hosted desktops.

Deployment options and use cases: XenApp supports on-premises, cloud, or hybrid deployments and can deliver applications to devices running Windows, macOS, Linux, as well as mobile platforms and web browsers via the Citrix Workspace. It is commonly used for centralized management, security, and scalability in environments that require remote access to business-critical Windows applications, often in conjunction with other Citrix virtualization technologies.

Branding note: Since about 2018–2019, Citrix positions the product under the Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops umbrella, with XenApp referenced as part of the legacy lineage. The core functionality described above remains central to the product family.