What is a PCoIP Zero Client?

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Answer:

While there are many uses of the term, Teradici defines a PCoIP Zero Client by the following key attributes:

  • Near zero maintenance
  • No OS and application updates/virus checks required
    • No Windows OS (locked down Linux/BSD or RTOS is OK)
    • No ability to load local applications (e.g. web browsers)
    • Only exposes remote desktop to client
  • No client updates are required for host OS or host application changes (e.g. no client updates when a host moves to support Windows 7 or 8...)
  • Client updates are automated (see Management Console or image server)
  • Investment protection and future proof graphics
    • Sufficient capabilities to support imaging needs for the life of the zero client
    • Support for any future 3D and video requirements
    • Only host-rendered, high-performance PCoIP Zero Clients can provide this
      • No waiting for updates to use new host OS or host applications
      • No risk that client hardware is unable to support new graphics/video updates

A PCoIP Zero Client refers to a zero client that supports Teradici's PCoIP protocol.  (For a list of current products see the Teradici web site).

PCoIP Zero Clients are compatible with PCoIP hardware and software encoders to ensure compatibility.

The benefits of PCoIP Zero Clients:

  • Low/no maintenance
    • No Windows OS
    • No "second Tuesday" OS patches
    • No anti-virus, anti-spyware required on the client
    • No device drivers to update
  • Exceptional security due to no local storage of user data 
    • Send display pixels only to the client
    • No hard drive
  • Investment protection
    • Datacenter host determines performance (VDI or dedicated remote workstation)
    • No CPU, flash or memory limitations 
    • Future proof imaging including 3D and any video (requires a hardware PCoIP Zero Client)
    • Longer life cycle than Thin Clients
  • Increased reliability due to no moving parts
    • No hard drive
    • No fan
  • Low power and heat
  • Superior USB authorization (requires a hardware PCoIP zero client)  

See also:

What is a PCoIP Remote Workstation Card?