thinclient

A thin client is a lightweight computer designed to offload most processing and storage to a remote server. The local device provides input/output and handles only basic tasks, while applications, data, and operating system components reside on a centralized server or in a data center. Thin clients rely on network connectivity to access remote resources and typically present a local user interface that mirrors a full desktop or application environment.

In practice, thin clients use small form-factor hardware or firmware-only devices and run a minimal operating system. They execute client software and establish sessions with remote resources using display protocols such as Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), Citrix ICA/HDX, or VMware PCoIP. Because most processing occurs remotely, local storage is limited and data protection emphasizes centralized controls.

Deployment models include virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), hosted desktops, and published or streamed applications. Thin clients are common in enterprises, education, and call centers where centralized management, consistent configurations, lower hardware costs, and reduced energy consumption are advantageous.

Advantages include lower upfront cost, simplified software management, easier fleet-wide updates, and improved security since data typically stays in the data center. Drawbacks include reliance on network connectivity, potential latency, and reduced performance for graphics-intensive workloads or specialized software that requires local processing.

History and variants: The idea evolved from diskless workstations and network computers in the 1990s. Modern thin clients may be x86- or ARM-based and include features such as secure boot and a trusted platform module. Some devices are zero clients with no local operating system, effectively acting as network terminals.

Related concepts include zero client and virtual desktop infrastructure.