Parallels Thin Client Server
The key features of Thin Client Server are enabled in the Device Manager component of Parallels RAS:
- Converts Windows devices running Windows 7 to 10 into secure kiosk-like modes
- Benefit from secure access with control over connected devices
- Reduces IT budgets from unnecessary hardware purchases and infrastructure upgrades
Thin clients are commonly used to reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) and maintenance, while providing the benefits of secure fully fledged workstations when used as a VDI solution.
Added Security with Thin Client Server
The Parallels RAS Device Manager allows administrators to convert Windows desktops running Windows 7–10 into limited devices similar to thin clients using the “replace desktop” feature. This feature limits users from changing system settings or installing new applications, providing administrators with a higher level of control over connected devices.
Not only does this improve security, it helps employees focus on specified business-related applications, increasing work efficiency and boosting overall business growth.
Secure access with kiosk mode functionality
Access can be further secured and customized by enabling Windows 10 kiosk mode, which disables power cycling functions such as reboot and shutdown. Kiosk mode allows users to perform a limited set of functions specified by an administrator, ensuring access to sensitive corporate data is secured.
Legacy machines using older operating systems (OSs) such as Windows 7 pose a security threat—but replacing them is costly. The Parallels RAS Device Manager provides a low-cost solution that allows IT departments to secure their network without expensive hardware by leveraging kiosk mode functionality.
End users cannot access the taskbar, Windows Explorer or any other feature that allows them to change system settings—they can only access resources published from Parallels RAS. With this functionality, administrators gain more control over endpoint devices.
Shadow a Windows device
Admins can gain full access to a Windows desktop and control applications running locally on the device, as well as any remote applications published from Parallels RAS. Moreover, admins can control log off, power off, power on and change system settings on Windows devices.
Windows Server also offers session shadowing. However, compared to Parallels RAS, it has limited options and is confined to specific Remote Desktop Services (RDS) sessions. Technical issues outside those RDS sessions cannot be resolved.
Thin Client Server Overview
- Thin clients are used to access virtual machines (VMs) hosted on a remote server.
- Published resources, such as applications and desktops, are accessible from thin clients.
- The benefits of a thin client server include secure access, legacy hardware recycling, minimal software maintenance and augmented support.
Thin Client Server – Lower hardware and maintenance costs
Prolong the life of PCs with legacy operating systems by converting them into secure pseudo thin clients. Deploy virtual desktops and applications through Parallels RAS onto pseudo thin clients and manage them from a centralized management console. Updating applications and desktops is easier and faster for the IT department.
Thin Client Server – Virus protection for legacy hardware
The Parallels RAS Device Manager provides thin clients with access to virtual desktops and applications without worrying about the underlying operating system. IT admins can restrict access to a machine's underlying OS to secure workstations from potential viruses and malware.
Thin Client Server – Improved local device support
Enable instant, secure and fully managed connections between remote workstations anywhere with Parallels RAS Device Manager. Shadowing allows IT admins to offer remote assistance to any user. Technical support teams can connect to remote devices and manage them as if they were sitting in front of them.