We believe that the key to creating a hyper-scalable, cost effective and maintainable university computing infrastructure is to use a network-centric architecture. In all our projects we promote the use of free and open source software and the use and reuse of existing computing infrastructure and hardware. Thin client technology helps reduce the amount of time and energy needed to maintain computer labs and older computers, no longer powerful enough to run the latest operating systems, may be re-purposed as thin client machines, extending the useful life of the machines by several years.
Using open source operating systems removes almost all instances of computer viruses (a huge problem in emerging countries) and removes the temptation to use cracked and pirated versions of proprietary software. In our experience staff and students have little difficulty in switching to an open source operating system, in fact, having made the change, many prefer it.
Digital Campus supports and trains ICT teams in their implementations of thin client architectures and use of open source software. Read more about how Digital Campus is using thin client technology to improve student computer access.