Windows Over Web (WOW) or the thin client
technology brings to the front, a new approach to program and
application development. The technology is known as "thin client"
technology as it reduces the software resources and computer hardware
needed at each individual desktop.
The Understanding
Thin clients
use centralized software provided over internal
networks to serve a combination of PCs, Windows-based terminals and
other network computing resources.
Cost savings also result from
less frequent
desktop servicing requirements caused by software
and hardware conflicts or installation problems.
WOW technology greatly helps
remote agents and
home based
support centers. With secure applications, employees can work from
remote offices and from the convenience of their homes using the
same applications that are running in the office. Thin client technology
helps enterprises:
- Reduce costs
- Increase security
- Achieve quick deployment
- Improve manageability
It offers a
viable alternative to the desktop PC for many,
making
access to business data and applications easy, secure and
affordable. With a thin client system, the client
sends keystrokes
and
mouse movements to the server over the network or dial-up
connection, and the
server sends back changes in the display.
Any PC can be a client, but because very little processing is performed
at the desktop, businesses can also use
low-cost terminals that
have no moving parts (no hard drive) and a generally small amount of
memory (RAM). Since each client is just a
terminal, all data and
settings-and even the applications-are on the server. To back up
everything for all the users, the organization only needs to
back up
the server. And for
disaster recovery, backups are easier
and more centralized, making it easier to take the backups off-site.
Features of WOW/Thin Client Technology
- Web applications can be developed without a browser
- Traditional programming techniques can be used with thin client
software
- Server based computing toolkit for defining PC Windows
- Server applications written in C, Cobol, or other compile
language
- WOW Software can communicate with one or more server
applications
- Separate windows client running on each user PC.
- Thin client software does not need to be updated when server
application changes
- Server based computing API set of functions to control the
display of Windows
- Thin client software functions with Linux windows software
- Thin client software functions with Unix windows software
- Full graphics and multi-media support
