Thin Client and the management program

Fig. 1 the structure of the thin client environment

Thin clients are managed at the server, located within the data center. Thin clients connect to servers via web browsers or remote desktop software. Depending on the functionality the user needs, client desktops can be very simple single-application kiosks or a flexible and familiar Windows environment. Because thin clients are computing devices that function as an access device on a network, these solid-state devices connect over a network to a server. In fact, keystrokes, mouse events and screen images are all that is sent between the client and server. This makes the device much more secure than a standard desktop or notebook computer.

To control all thin clients on the server, the server have to install management software. This kind of software can simplify remote troubleshooting. Remote support is greatly simplified. The devices can be shadowed (remotely displayed) with full keyboard and mouse control. In other words, the IT staff can monitor the client desktop without letting user notice that their desktops have been monitored. The purpose of this function is that company wants to take control of all devices to avoid virus attack and easy to maintain.

The management program relates to the concept of panopticism because employees know they might be monitored by the IT or their boss in anytime but they do not know when. They will be aware of their behavior while they are using thin client at work.

I was once working with thin client for two years. In my opinion, this kind of program truly increase the work efficient and employees can concentrate on their work easily. However, employees lost their privacy at the same time.

For more information about thin client : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thin_client