How Can Terminal Services Help Your Network?

Thanks to the cloud computing, there's a lot of chatter these days about doing your work remotely. The idea of accessing your data from anywhere on any device is an exciting prospect, but it is not a new one. Windows Terminal Services (renamed Remote Desktop Services in Windows Server 2008 R2) has had this ability for many years, and it is still a great remote service option for your network.

Even though Terminal Services have been around since Windows NT (circa 1996), new advancements in hardware technology have really opened the doors and allowed for Terminal Services to upgrade and do more for your network. For example, the old standard for networks used to 10 Mbps, which is barely enough juice to run multiple applications. Server hardware has grown to the point where it can now run multiple operating systems. Thanks to more powerful network hardware, Windows Terminal Services can pull off these four services that can enhance the productivity of your network.

Servers Handle the Workload
Terminal Services allow servers to handle your company's heavy computing workload. This means that your desktops processes less data, and can accomplish more with less. As much as every employee would love to get a new computer, purchasing a new workstation is a major expense. If you can extend the life of your computers by letting Terminal Services take the load, then your bill to replace hardware will be much smaller. When it is time to foot the bill for new hardware, using Terminal Services means that you will not need to buy expensive high-performance machines. Also, setting up a new PC is easier and more cost effective.

Minimal Configuration Setting for Desktops
With Terminal Services, you can improve the performance of your workstations across your entire network by configuring each desktop to run at a minimal configuration. When adjustments are made, like media files minimized to their smallest size, desktop provisioning (the providing of data to a user's desktop) will take a lot less out of your servers, allowing you to free up network resources and make room for growth.

Use One Software Application on Multiple Desktops
Terminal Services allow you to install individual applications on your server instead of on the hard drive of each workstation. This makes software maintenance much easier; because now, instead of going through and updating the software on each and every PC, only one security patch will need to be installed.

Replace Your Desktop Management Software for Terminal Services
Not every company will need to do this, but it is possible to switch out your desktop management software for a Terminal Services environment. This will help if you are trying to cut back on fees and expenses associated with desktop management software. This may not be an option for every desktop management software. XFER will be happy to review your software and recommend what can be traded for a Terminal Services environment.

If your company is running a computer network with servers and workstations, then you are likely already using Terminal Services. XFER can work with you to show you how to maximize Terminal Services for your business.

Maybe your business is growing and you currently only have a few workstations. If you are looking to upgrade to a server that runs Terminal Services, then XFER can help you set this up. Call XFER at 734-927-6666 / 800-GET-XFER to learn more about how Terminal Services can improve the efficiency of your network.