The Linux Terminal Server Project is a software package that allows many people to use the same computer simultaneously. LTSP* is a flexible, cost effective-solution that’s enabling schools, businesses and organisations of all kinds all over the world to install and deploy open source desktop workstations easily. A growing number of Linux distributions include LTSP as an installation option that’ll be ready and working quickly and conveniently.
Thin clients (also known as terminals) can be bespoke shiny new units or legacy PCs and may be used for conventional tasks: to browse the web, send email, create documents, graphics and run other desktop applications.
LTSP not only improves Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), but more importantly provides increased value over traditional computing solutions.
LTSP workstations can run applications from Linux and Windows servers.
Linux thin clients have proved to be extremely reliable because they’re tamper-proof (ideal for public access suites) and Linux is a very secure, stable operating sytem.
LTSP thin clients also have very low power consumption as they contain no moving parts like hard or optical drives and have only minimal memory. This also means thin clients are quieter than conventional desktop PCs. These are important factors to consider when looking at ‘greening’ your ICT and making it more environmentally friendly.
LTSP is distributed under Version 2 of the GNU General Public License (GPL), meaning it’s free of licensing fees and always will be.
At Bristol Wireless we’ve been using LTSP since our inception. We’ve found it to be very reliable both for running our lab in Bristol, as well as providing public access/training suites in both fixed locations and in the field.
Please contact us for more information on LTSP or to arrange a demonstration. Alternatively, download our non-technical LTSP leaflet.
* LTSP is a registered trademark of DisklessWorkstations.com, LLC
