A Discussion of Thin Client Technology for Computer Labs

TL;DR

This paper surveys thin client technology in educational computer labs, discussing its benefits, drawbacks, and suitability compared to traditional setups to improve cost-efficiency and performance in educational environments.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of thin client technology, addressing misconceptions and identifying scenarios where it outperforms traditional computer lab solutions.

Findings

Thin clients can reduce costs and maintenance in educational labs.

Certain educational scenarios benefit more from thin client deployment.

Misconceptions about thin client limitations are addressed and refuted.

Abstract

Computer literacy is not negotiable for any professional in an increasingly computerised environment. Educational institutions should be equipped to provide this new basic training for modern life. Accordingly, computer labs are an essential medium for education in almost any field. Computer labs are one of the most popular IT infrastructures for technical training in primary and secondary schools, universities and other educational institutions all over the world. Unfortunately, a computer lab is expensive, in terms of both initial purchase and annual maintenance costs, and especially when we want to run the latest software. Hence, research efforts addressing computer lab efficiency, performance or cost reduction would have a worldwide repercussion. In response to this concern, this paper presents a survey on thin client technology for computer labs in educational environments. Besides setting out the advantages and drawbacks of this technology, we aim to refute false prejudices against thin clients, identifying a set of educational scenarios where thin clients are a better choice and others requiring traditional solutions.