What Is Thin Client Computing?

A thin client is a lightweight computer with no hard drive. Thin clients are centrally managed, with most of their memory, applications, and data stored on a server. This may be a cloud server or an on-premises edge server.

The difference between a thick and thin client is that a “thick” or “rich” client is a full-featured computer, while a thin client computer relies on a server to handle most of its workloads.

Thin clients enable a virtualized business environment, which often delivers cost savings, security, and scalability benefits. By creating an architecture between the thin client device and the server, Intel® technologies enable virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), intelligent desktop virtualization (IDV), and transparent client infrastructure (TCI).

When powered by Intel® technologies, thin clients enable great user experiences with integrated graphics, support for 4K displays, and responsive compute performance. These devices are ideal for helping IT teams:

  • Address complex issues around security and manageability
  • Support remote client solutions related to emerging 5G and cloud technologies
  • Deploy Desktop as a Service (DaaS), the next evolution in VDI
  • Enable Hardware as a Service (HaaS) delivered via managed service providers

Productive User Experiences

Users can work more efficiently with only the applications they need running on their devices.

Low Cost

By design, thin clients generally have lower maintenance and power costs than full-featured PCs.

Small Footprint

Available in a range of form factors, thin clients are great for small spaces where a full-featured computer may not fit.

Thin Client Architectures

An organization’s thin client architecture depends on its specific IT strategy. Here are some key terms to know.

Virtualized Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

VDI is the practice of hosting a desktop OS within a virtual machine (VM) running on a centralized server.

Intelligent Desktop Virtualization (IDV)

With IDV, the client image is divided into layers. The OS and applications are managed centrally, and endpoint devices are managed physically.

Transparent Client Infrastructure (TCI)

TCI splits software and hardware, and then splits computing and storage, while streaming the software over a network.

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Thin Client Form Factors

With a range of form factors to choose from, it’s easy to find the best thin client for the job.

Desktop

Get great compute and rich graphics and media in a desktop thin client.

Explore desktops

All-in-One

Simplify experiences and workspaces with all-in-one thin clients. The computer is built right into the screen—no keyboard needed.

Explore all-in-ones

Laptops

Untether employees to work without wires with laptop thin clients that offer great connectivity and low power consumption.

Explore laptops

Mini PCs

With a small form factor and low power consumption, mini PCs offer excellent value as a thin client building block.

Explore Intel® NUC mini PCs

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Intel® Technologies for Thin Clients

From low-power devices to powerful edge servers that process large amounts of data, thin client hardware based on Intel® technologies deliver the performance, connectivity, and manageability features to accommodate a growing number of applications.

Intel® Processors

Intel® processors come in a range of compute options for every form factor and application. Integrated graphics and substantial compute ensure rich user experiences.

Integrated Connectivity

Intel®-based thin clients offer a selection of integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet connectivity.

Manageability

Intel® processors include features to support IT management. For additional capabilities, including out-of-band device management, look for devices based on the Intel vPro® platform.

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Hardware-Enhanced Security Features

Help protect data and devices with hardware-based encryption and root of trust.

Intel® Software for Thin Clients

Intel enables software for IDV and TCI, including the Intel® Software Solution for Transparent Computing and Intel® Graphics Virtualization Technology (Intel® GVT).

Intel® Xeon® Processors

Intel® Xeon® processors provide responsive performance as on-premises servers or as cloud servers for Desktop as a Service (DaaS).

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Find Thin Clients Powered by Intel® Processors


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Notices and Disclaimers

Intel technologies may require enabled hardware, software or service activation.

No product or component can be absolutely secure.

Your costs and results may vary.

Intel does not control or audit third-party data. You should consult other sources to evaluate accuracy.