Terminal Server, a component of Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2000, allows the delivery of Windows-based applications and the Windows desktop itself, to a variety of Windows based devices and some Apple Macintosh computers. With the addition of Citrix, the number of end-user devices that can be connected increases even further.

When a user runs an application on a Windows Server 2003/2000, all of the application execution takes place on the server and only the keyboard, mouse, and display information are transmitted over the network. Each user sees only their individual session, which is managed transparently by the server operating system and is independent of any other client session.

Installation and Implementation of Terminal Services

As with any server installation, the implementation of a Terminal Services environment requires careful planning and liaison between Mountain Software and the client. Ensuring that all users are able to connect to the network, work remotely and receive full functionality requires extensive discussion and clear project management. However, because existing PCs can be utilised the cost of implementing such a solution is not necessarily expensive and can give a number of other benefits to your business.

Once this information is collected and the solution has been implemented, the control of the network is immediately centralised as all the programs used within the Terminal Services environment are installed on the server. This makes administration of the network much easier and support is instant as any problems encountered by users can be resolved on the server that runs the applications ensuring fast response times. Application upgrades are straightforward requiring a single update on the server which is then immediately available to all users.

Key benefits of Terminal Services

Low cost of implementation - it is very likely that existing hardware can be utilised removing the need for expensive PC upgrades Easy to support - as users work on the server, any problems experienced by a user can be easily resolved through remote control of the user's session, leading to a fast response time to most problems Application control - all applications run on the server so any upgrade to an application on the server will impact all users at the same time. This removes the need for individual PC upgrades and reduces system downtime Fast remote access - as only a limited amount of information is passed over the network, access to data from a remote location is very quick. Remote workers can experience a similar level of performance to people on the network