Thin client vs fat client, Opinions? - TechRepublic
General discussion
June 20, 2002 at 11:41 AM

Thin client vs fat client, Opinions?

As part of my duties I currently manage a network of about 20 stations with a single NT server on a single domain (very basic). I’m now faced with expanding to about 50 stations and have been suggested with a thin client set-up. My knowledge is somewhat limited, but I understand that I will need a more powerful server, special licensing and can use less powerfull stations (terminals).

My questions are:

1. Would this be advanatageous, and why?
2. How is the licensing for each terminal handled?
3. Whould I still need OS installed on each station?
4. Would I be able to install one copy of office XP on server and allow each terminal user to use it without purchasing 50 licenses for office?
5. Would I need multiple servers, what specs would be recommended?

As I stand now I don’t feel that the thin client is for my company mainly b/c some of the software we use does not support nor recommend the thin client. (Mortgage loan handling/tracking software) I also don’t seea cost savings since a more powerful server is required with additional licensing.

If so can anyone provide me with ammunition so I can back my aurgument against the thin client setup.

Thanks

This discussion is locked

All Comments