Not so long ago, we gave you a quick, high-level definition of what a Thin Client is and got up-close and personal with its anatomy – from the exterior. As promised, here is the same review, only from the internal perspective. So, we’re taking a look at things from the inside out. This will further assist you as ammunition for anyone who is shooting out blank stares if and when you start talking about or get asked “what is Thin Client?” One of the best ways to give a broad-working explanation is to touch base on its internal components and their general purpose.

Thin Client Hardware – An easy-to-understand definition

In keeping with its name, a “Thin” Client endpoint is a lightweight, small form-factor device designed for virtual desktop infrastructure environments – and “Client” is just a fancy term for device. Thin Client hardware is low-cost and highly secure, saves energy and IT resources, and is a fantastic substitute for fat PCs in today’s modern IT world.

As we probably all know, virtualization incorporates the idea that everything is stored on a central server and no longer stored on individual endpoints – not operating systems, programs, or applications. “Endpoint Management Software” is utilized for centralized and easy management, updates, and deployments. This way you, IT professionals, can manage and troubleshoot endpoints located around multiple cities/countries and assist their end users from just one central location.

Thin Client Internal Components – A basic review

What does Thin Client hardware look like? Not so long ago, by way of 10ZiG 5900q Series Thin Client as example – we took a look at a Thin Client device up-close and personal from the exterior. For the internal perspective, we’re going to focus on four major areas inside Thin Client hardware, using the same 5900q Series example – CPU, Memory, Main Board, and DOM. There are no moving parts in a Thin Client. Such as a fan, which is noisy and energy-consuming.

CPU (pictured upper right, peeking out from behind the black panel):

A Central Processing Unit (CPU) for a Thin (or Zero) Client is typically Dual or Quad Core, with GHz ranges and boosts depending on the make and model. This is the brains of a Thin (or Zero) Client, where instructions are processed and calculations are performed.

Memory (upper left removable board):

Computer memory on a Thin (or Zero) Client is an integrated circuit board with Random Access Memory (RAM) chips onboard. Measured in GigaBytes (GB), the capacity of RAM varies per device in coordination with its performance requirements, and make and model.

Main Board (bottom section):

The main board of a Thin (or Zero) Client is where customization can really start to take place. It houses the Disk on Module (DOM) / image, and other options including Wireless, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and Power over Ethernet (PoE), etc., depending on desired function.

DOM (on main board):

The DOM is the storage area of the Thin (or Zero) Client. It holds a customized firmware image, allowing devices to be made to fit into your environment and not the other way around.

So, there you have it! A little bit of “What is a Thin Client 101.” Comes in handy when first introducing these device endpoints for VDI to your company. For more information on the benefits of these noise-free, lower-cost, highly secure, small form factor devices, click here > Benefits of Thin Clients

Free 10ZiG evaluation devices and management software demos are available here > DEMO

A “Virtual Desktop” – What Exactly What Does This Mean?

A traditional desktop environment is one in which its computing hardware and its operating systems and applications are directly located on individual computing devices at physical desktop workstations. A virtual desktop environment is not. In a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) environment, desktop operating systems and applications are virtually located and managed on a centralized, remote server. End users’ data resides on that server and is centrally managed, troubleshooted, and deployed.

Virtual desktop endpoints and endpoint management software allow end users to access their desktop operating systems and applications, etc., as if they were on their computers. The computer user experience is the same in that it allows end users to access, present, and communicate data over a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), with “things” looking pretty much the same, with the exception of a few login screens. So, desktops are virtual, if you will, and not physically located on individual hardware devices.

Some Benefits Of Virtual Desktops

When virtual desktops replace PC desktops, deployment, management, and maintenance becomes easier. Centralized management software is used to enable IT administrators to maintain desktops from one central server, meaning upgrades, application deployments, and virus control can be centrally managed, rather than being handled individually at workstations. This also does not disturb end users’ productivity – desktop fixes, and even new desktops, can get up and running in no time, off-site. Also, IT professionals can focus on other initiatives because management and maintenance of all of their end users’ desktops is centralized, and changes and upgrades are often done in group updates.

A virtual desktop environment saves money mainly because it saves time, energy, and effort. Everything runs more efficiently and more safely. Less IT resources are required, and the rate at which IT can troubleshoot increases. Therefore, productivity all around goes up, while expenses go down. As a long-term investment, virtual desktop endpoints can ultimately be less costly due to energy/electrical savings and the fact that the hardware, by nature, lasts longer than a typical PC and comes at a much lower price point. Plus, with the right free centralized management software selection, you’ll save money with unlimited user licenses.

Virtual Desktop Providers – An Intro. To The Major Providers

An important part of a virtual desktop set-up is finding the right provider who will supply your desktop platform and protocol for remote connection and display. Features within virtual desktop platforms and protocols do vary and are continually being updated, so it is essential that they be just the right fit.

With VMware Horizon 7, end users have access to everything they need in one digital workspace – virtual desktop protocols and applications are provisioned through a single VDI and app virtualization. The Blast Extreme protocol is optimized for mobile Cloud and supports a broad range of endpoints, whereas PCoIP is more desktop-optimized for published apps or an entire remote desktop environment. Citrix Virtual Apps & Desktops provides a complete virtual app and desktop platform for Windows, Linux, web business applications, or full virtual desktops. Citrix Ready protocols include HDX for entry-level devices, HDX Premium for high-end devices including needs like Skype for Business, and HDX 3D Pro for 3D graphic-intensive performance devices.

The Remote Desktop Protocol by Microsoft virtual desktop set-up provides an end user with a graphical interface to connect to another computer over a network connection, enabling a viable VDI environment. As well as Parallels Desktop for Mac, a hardware virtualization software that maps the host computer’s hardware resources server directly to the virtual machine’s resources.

Cloud-based platforms are also an option. Amazon WorkSpaces provisions either Windows or Linux desktops in just a few minutes and quickly scales to provide thousands of virtual desktops to workers across the globe. End users get a fast, responsive desktop of their choice that they can access anywhere, anytime, from any supported device, which can make for a successful virtual desktop set-up. Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform are also available.

Virtual Desktop Endpoints – Do I Have Choices?

Yes, you do have choices. There are several types of virtual desktop endpoints, from good old-fashion standard fat PCs – to laptops, tablets, or mobile phones – to Thin Clients & Zero Clients – basically, any hardware device that is internet-capable and granted security rights to connect to a related network. Even printers, POS terminals, and smart meters qualify as endpoint devices. In a world full of endpoint options, it is important to determine which endpoint may be just right for you.

The key is to start to look at your end users. Determine their current and desired usage. Take into account who is doing what, and what they want to be able to do, from a computing standpoint to help lead you in the right direction. By pinpointing specific needs, it helps to narrow the scope. Thin & Zero virtual desktop endpoints are designed to be optimized to work with specific end user requirements, from task users to power users. It’s not always about the newest, or fastest, or coolest device that is on the market. Really, it’s all about the right fit.

Virtual Desktop Endpoints With 10ZiG Thin & Zero Clients

With a virtual desktop set-up, the right VDI benefits from the right endpoints really do make a difference. 10ZiG Technology has cutting-edge endpoint devices with endpoint management software for part of your virtual desktop environment. A world-market leader in Thin Client & Zero Client endpoint hardware, 10ZiG provides leading VDI benefits with Intel and AMD based Dual and Quad Core Thin Clients & Zero Clients for VMware Blast Extreme & PCoIP, Citrix HDX and Microsoft environments – in addition to the widest range of Teradici PCoIP Zero Clients on the market. 10ZiG offers FREE, no-obligation demo devices, local Technical Support teams based in the U.S. and Europe, and provides endpoint management software (The 10ZiG Manager™) with Cloud capabilities completely FREE with UNLIMITED licenses supported.

Zero Client Definition

In a world full of endpoint device selection for VDI (virtual desktop infrastructure), Zero Clients are certainly not taking a back seat to laptops, tablets, mobile phones, or even Thin Clients, for that matter. What is a Zero Client? What a strange name – “Zero Client.” A Zero Client endpoint device is a small, powerful, piece of hardware that helps to cut down spending, power consumption, space, noise, lack of security, along with more benefits… when used within a VDI environment. (sample pictured below) A Zero Client has super-fast boot-up time, requires very little IT maintenance, and is a nearly completely OS-free (or, “Zero” OS) VDI experience.

In its purest definition, a Zero Client has no operating system (OS) and no local storage as an endpoint device. This is much different from a traditional computing desktop environment, where for example, PCs have everything directly on the individual local desktop. It is even different from a Thin Client device, which has some degree of an internal operating system and some local storage for customization of end-user applications. With Zero Clients, all desktop applications are provisioned and centrally managed from a remote server. An on-board processor is designed to handle solely one specific protocol like VMware PCoIP or Blast Extreme, Teradici PCoIP, Citrix HDX, Microsoft RDP, Parallels RAS, etc.

Zero Client Hardware

As mentioned, a Zero Client is a relatively small piece of hardware – lightweight, quiet, and efficient – which does not take up that much space. The end user’s OS is hosted on a centralized server, along with applications, yet the user experience is still nearly exactly the same with the exception of a few minor steps (usually) when logging in. Note: it is important to realize that Zero Client set-ups are more often than not customized with a very minimal degree of OS and storage-nonetheless, still providing end users with the truest, “nearest to zero” experience possible.

The makeup of a Zero Client’s hardware tends to be this – a typical Zero Client is roughly under two pounds and on average, is around seven to eight inches tall, and under two inches wide. Typically, they feature a dual or quad core processor, DVI, DisplayPort or HDMI ports, a range of USB ports, optional wireless, and optional VESA mounting. They usually will also include Line Out, Mic In, and will support multiple monitor set-ups. Zero Clients are optimized for a either a Citrix, VMware, Parallels RAS or RDP environment – and have the ability to transform between any solution with just a simple firmware upgrade.

Sample Zero Client Product Specifications

Zero Client Benefits

As described above, Zero Clients have next to no internal storage or processing capability for the end user – everything is stored away on a remote server and managed centrally by IT staff. Fast boot-up times, little to no maintenance or involvement from IT, and high graphic capabilities are just some Zero Client benefits. You also get the very highest level of security with the very lowest level of power-consumption. Endpoints are secure from potentially spread viruses from bad downloads, and all access, files, and programs can be put on “lock-down,” so to speak.

A Zero Client device will usually boot quickly (under 20 seconds) into a specific VDI sign-on screen in a completely locked-down environment. It also tends to be more flexible if the VDI technology being used during the lifecycle of the device changes. And, cost implications tend to be less with Zero Clients. The Zero Client end user also gets that extremely quick boot-up time and starts the end user at the VDI sign-on screen when logging in. Finally, high-resolution graphics are some of the best displayed on Zero Clients.

Zero Client VDI Environment

Zero Clients make virtual desktop infrastructure easy. In a VDI environment, a Zero Client offers an out-of-the-box, locked-down environment, support for a specific protocol, no distracting applications running in the background, no virus exposure, a quick installation and deployment with no additional configuration, quick boot-up times, and little-to-no maintenance requirements – all of which all leads to improved productivity of resources.

From the end user side of things in terms of VDI, if someone is having a Zero Client endpoint issue – like a virus, or a suddenly needs an upgrade, or say there was a system failure – he/she is not waiting around with nothing to do until IT physically shows up at their workstation. Instead, they are able to get back to work nearly ASAP. From the IT side of things, with Zero Clients & VDI, admin professionals can focus on other initiatives because the management and maintenance of all of their end users is centralized, and changes and upgrades are done in group updates. The fact that the admins don’t have to physically touch the Zero Client hardware for device set-up or troubleshooting offers them time to work on other projects.

Other than a few login differentiations, front end (what the end user sees) desktop virtualization with Zero Client endpoints looks and feels just like a traditional desktop experience. When logging in, each user sees their personal desktop just as they normally would, up to and including preferred settings. And, the end user can now obtain this same desktop anywhere – regardless of hardware device.

Zero Clients With 10ZiG

10ZiG Zero Clients deliver a powerful, secure, and easy-to-manage endpoint device. Our Zero Clients harness the power of VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft, supporting all their latest protocols including Blast Extreme, PCoIP, HDX, and RDP, to deliver a seamless desktop virtualization experience. With 10ZiG NOS™ Zero Clients, you will experience lightning-fast boot-up times of seconds, simple and intuitive configuration locally or automated via our centralized management tool (The 10ZiG Manager™), and the absolute lowest usage of power consumption – as low as 5 watts.

10ZiG Redefined Zero Clients

The 10ZiG Zero Client lineup below provides a solution for all user types, from task workers up through the most demanding power users.

• 10ZiG 4448 Series Zero Client
• 10ZiG 4548 Series Zero Client
• 10ZiG 5848q Series Zero Client
• 10ZiG 5948q Series Zero Client
• 10ZiG V1200 Series Zero Clients

About 10ZiG Technology

10ZiG Technology has the perfect Zero Client endpoint devices, plus endpoint management software, as part of your VDI virtual desktop solution. A world-market leader in Zero Client & Tin Client endpoint hardware, 10ZiG provides leading VDI benefits with Intel and AMD based Dual and Quad Core Zero Clients & Thin Clients for VMware Blast Extreme & PCoIP, Citrix HDX and Microsoft environments – in addition to the widest range of Teradici PCoIP Zero Clients on the market. 10ZiG offers FREE, no-obligation demo devices, local Technical Support teams based in the U.S. and Europe, and provides endpoint management software (The 10ZiG Manager™) with Cloud capabilities completely FREE with UNLIMITED licenses supported.

Endpoint management software with no hassle

Who needs hassle? Your IT philosophy should be this – why should you settle for the disappointment of centralized management software and tech support that may cost you money? Look for endpoint management software that is simple, user-friendly, and highly functional with all the technical advances and support you deserve. It should come at no-cost and include an unlimited number of users/licenses. It should make endpoint management, configuration, and deployment efficient and effortless.

Endpoint management software that’s always FREE

It really is as simple as that. Your endpoint management software should always be FREE with endpoint device purchases. Tech Support for a number of years should also come complimentary with the right software program from the right vendor. This should cut your research down if you’re new to looking for endpoint management software, and your frustration down if you’re paying for one right now and realizing that you should not be. It certainly makes you think, right?

Endpoint management software that’s easy to use

Why make things difficult? With the right endpoint management software, IT Admins can remotely control any endpoint, including x86 devices to laptops, tablets, Thin & Zero Clients, etc., into one centrally-managed and easy-to-use platform. By connecting via a LAN/WAN or the Cloud, you should be able to manage large volumes of endpoints located remotely in cities across the country, or anywhere in the world. Set-up and updates should be easy, and support should be readily available.

Endpoint management software with good Tech Support

Let’s face it, questions are going to come up and you’re going to have bumps in the road. Things that shape the best endpoint management software sometimes have nothing to do with technology. How about an easy-to-understand, U.S.-based support team? Great endpoint management software should be easy to work with and expedite management of your endpoints with efficiency and offer all the tech support that you could possibly need.

Endpoint management software with advancing tech features

That’s right, “advancing.” Your endpoint management software should be ever-evolving when it comes to tech, security, and management features, both in and out of the Cloud. Some key things to look for and/or ask about with endpoint management software are – Is it Cloud-Ready? Does it have Role Based Access? How easy is its Automatic Configuration & Firmware Versioning? How in-depth are its Reporting features? What about its Power Management, Task Scheduling, Shadowing, etc.? Does it have Distributed Firmware Versioning? And, what new features will soon be added?

Endpoint management software with quality endpoint devices

At this point, we can make things really easy for you. Did you know that The 10ZiG Manager™ is fully-free, easy-to-use endpoint management software provided to all 10ZiG customers using Linux and Windows based Thin Clients as well as 10ZiG NOS™ Zero Clients running on VMware, Citrix, Microsoft and Parallels RAS platforms? The 10ZiG Manager provides IT Admins the choice of managing endpoints via traditional LAN/ WAN or the Cloud, using either our Desktop Console or Web Console; both platforms come with a variety of features that make managing large volumes of endpoints a breeze, regardless of your location. And, it is always FREE.

10ZiG Technology offers Thin Client & Zero Client endpoint devices for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), providing leading Intel and AMD based Dual and Quad Core Thin Clients and Zero Clients for VMware Blast Extreme & PCoIP, Citrix (HDX, HDX Premium, HDX 3D Pro), and Microsoft environments, in addition to the widest range of Teradici PCoIP Zero Clients on the market.

“10ZiG Manager Client Management Software is fantastic! The software is very comprehensive, well laid out and easy to use – and FREE! Most other vendors charge a pretty hefty fee for their Client management tools. 10ZiG is better than others I have seen, and it is included at no charge!” — G2 Crowd Review