1. Internal operating system

Thin clients usually use customized embedded operating systems, such as Linux, Android or Windows CE, Windows Embeded and CloudV. Equivalent to mini PC, with configuration requirements. Partners can match (install and run) software and store data according to their own preferences.

In addition to running the cloud desktop with the server, the thin client can usually work independently. In other words, when the thin client can't connect to the cloud desktop, it changes back to its original shape and becomes a mini PC. At this point, the user is equivalent to using a new computer. It looks good, but the data is still on the server.

In fact, as long as the intranet is stable, whether it is a thin client or a cloud terminal, there will basically be no server connection.

Cloud terminal is special, because one or more cloud desktop platforms have been set up before leaving the factory, such as Microsoft RDP, VMware PCoIP, Citrix HDX, cloud DTP, NComputing UXP, KVM SPICE and so on. Its configuration itself is limited to running cloud desktop client programs and screen transmission. Simply put, the cloud terminal only provides the login interface of the cloud desktop for the end user, and can quickly start and connect the cloud desktop.

The cloud terminal is equivalent to an input-output intermediary, which is only responsible for transmitting the mouse and keyboard commands of the terminal to the back-end server through the network, and then returning the images and sounds processed by the server.

2. Desktop connection type

Because of the open system, the thin client can support partners to freely install clients of various cloud desktop platforms and support different protocols, such as RDP of Microsoft, PCOIP of VMware or HDX of Citrix. Just like buying a Xiaomi Android phone, we can brush Meizu's Flyme system and Samsung's TouchWiz system, which is flexible and changeable.

Because there is no open system, cloud terminals can only support cloud desktop platforms specified by manufacturers. For example, you can only use the iOS system to buy an Apple phone. Similarly, what kind of zero client should be used depends on the corresponding cloud desktop scheme, and it is concrete that you can't switch at will.

"Simplicity and concentration have always been one of my secrets."

3. Maintenance work

For thin clients, in addition to the back-end server, IT personnel also need to maintain each thin client. Because the system of thin client is customized, its security is higher than that of traditional PC, but lower than that of zero client. Thin clients also need to patch and update software regularly, but the maintenance workload of thin clients is lower than that of traditional PCs and higher than that of cloud terminals.

Cloud terminals basically do not need maintenance and are naturally immune to viruses. IT ape-man just needs to concentrate on maintaining the server, have afternoon tea and have a good game of chicken.

Third, choose

How should I choose?

Why choose a thin client?

The application scenario is complex and requires multiple platforms to be used or switched at the same time.

When the cloud desktop cannot be connected, it can work independently locally.

Note: When switching platforms, the thin client needs to be reconfigured; When used independently, it is necessary to consider whether the application and data storage are only on the cloud host.

Why choose cloud terminal (zero client)?

Yulong cloud terminal has higher security and zero maintenance;

Fast boot, easier to use;

Smaller size, more power saving and longer service life.

With the cloud desktop gradually entering the public's field of vision, the annual shipment of cloud terminals is also increasing. At present, in terms of market share, thin clients still occupy a large share, because as the successor of X86 architecture PC, thin clients have higher standardization and lower R&D costs for manufacturers. Moreover, the thin client system is open and has a wider market audience.

As a latecomer, Zero Client is an exclusive cloud desktop device. Although its research and development cost is high, it is increasingly favored by consumers because of its exclusive sales model, simpler operation and more cost-effective price. Manufacturers are also turning to zero clients.