This has been a major argument, and I mean argument, for as long as I have been supporting computers. There are two camps on this issue. The subject is worthy of a well-researched post, which I may just do if I can't find one already written here on Tech Republic.

In a nutshell, yes, we leave our computers on 24/7/365. I mentioned three reasons in my post: 1) patch updates, 2) AV scans and 3) evening and weekend remote desktop support for the IT staff.

I can think of one more reason: remote backups. Although I don't employ remote backups, it simply doesn't work if the power is not on. We have our staff turn off the monitors at night and on the weekends but we leave the computer on.

As far as security issues: In my opinion, the security risk is no greater with our computers on while logged off and unattended than if they are when in use during regular busines hours. They are still behind my corporate firewall.

Your comment about PCs vs dumb terminals or thin clients is also worthy of another post. I'll bet it has been adressed here on TR. If not, let's tackle it. Thanks for bringing up both these issues.