Praim recently published, in #Praim4Beginners, some introductory articles which outline some of the fundamental principles of Thin Client computing. To continue this thread, In this #Praim4Beginners article we are going to explore the importance of thin client management and the role of ThinMan management console.
Thin client technology has predominantly existed as virtual desktop computing started to be more pervasive, be it shared desktop or VDI. This computing model has focused on the benefits for the use of centralised desktop delivery with the potential objective of a “no touch” desktop being one of the biggest efficiency gains.
Using a thin client as the endpoint will go a long way But, in order to achieve the maximum savings and efficiency, the endpoint solution must be centrally managed. better if with a management tool that can achieve efficiency, effectiveness and scalability goals for the whole infrastructure.
The essential functions that centralised management must provide include:
- Configuration – Defining how the endpoints connects to the service.
- Update – Applying firmware and client version changes.
- Audit – Defining what units are part of the infrastructure.
- Security – Applying appropriate network governance to the endpoint and the management console in an easy way.
- Support – Providing tools to assist with regular user issues.
The more advanced features include:
- Manage both Windows and Linux based devices.
- No-touch configuration – Device’s automatic configuration on network connection.
- Network detection – Configuration based on sub-net location.
- Group allocation – Assigning settings based on either automatically or manually defined groups.
- User based policies – Specific configurations based on user logon.
- Authentication security – The ability to enhance logon security to incorporate two factors authentication.
- LDAP integration – Complete connection to Active Directory to complement user security and authentication.
- Power management – Power on remote devices on separate VLAN, Network and even external sites via remote Wake-on-LAN procedures.
- Scheduled and event-based activities – Configuring activities, such as Wake on LAN, updates, to happen based on time or actions.
- Write filter management – Stop, start and configure the file system as well as the registry for all Windows Embedded devices.
- Windows application deployment – Adding software and configuring Windows endpoints.
ThinMan Advanced offers all the features above mentioned, and even more advanced features aimed at scalability and management of large network infrastructures (especially with remote offices), advanced admin tools and support for business continuity and enhanced end user management. A ThinMan Basic free version with limited functionality is also available, useful for testing and managing small infrastructures.
