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A terminal server is a powerful tool that helps improve the efficiency, security, and scalability of business operations. In this article, we will look at various aspects of terminal servers and help you understand why they are a valuable asset for modern businesses. What is a Terminal Server: Definition and Key Functions At its core, a terminal server is a centralized computing system that allows multiple users to access applications, data, and resources from a remote location. Unlike traditional computing systems, where each user has a separate computer with its own resources, a terminal server allows users to connect to a single server that hosts applications and processes the necessary data. Users can access these applications and data using a variety of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Terminal Server Architecture and How It Works The terminal server operates on a client-server architecture. The server hosts applications, data, and user profiles. Users connect to the server using client devices and access applications and data as if they were running locally on their own devices. The server manages computing power, memory, and other hardware resources by distributing them among connected users. Servers use protocols such as Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) for Windows-based systems and Virtual Network Computing (VNC) for other platforms. These protocols ensure secure communication between the client and the server, encrypting data to prevent unauthorized access. Key Benefits for Business There are several good reasons why a company may decide to implement a terminal server. Centralized management of applications, data, and user profiles. This simplifies the process of updating, patching, and securing, reducing the burden on the administrator. Resource efficiency in the allocation of computing power and memory. The terminal server allows maximum efficient use of the equipment and ensures stable user experience. Remote employee access to applications and data from anywhere with an internet connection, which facilitates remote work and increases flexibility. Centralizing data on the server increases security and simplifies backups, reducing the risk of data loss or theft. Terminal servers can reduce hardware costs because user devices do not require high technical specifications to run resource-intensive applications. Main Disadvantages and Limitations Despite all the advantages, the terminal server has its drawbacks. Server dependency — outage affects many users. The complexity of the initial installation — setting up a server requires deep technical knowledge. Bandwidth Requirements — Remote access depends on sufficient internet bandwidth, which may be limited. Terminal Server vs. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): What to Choose? Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) and terminal servers provide remote access, but they differ in their approaches. VDI provides each user with a separate VM that mimics a traditional work environment. Terminal servers, on the other hand, allow users to share a single server, and applications run on the server itself. The choice between them depends on factors such as budget, technical expertise, scalability needs, and user requirements. VDI is suitable for scenarios where users require resource isolation and extensive configuration, and terminal servers are more efficient at providing standardized applications to a large number of users. How to Choose the Best Terminal Server for Your Business Choosing the right equipment requires a thorough assessment of your business' needs. First, plan your bandwidth requirements. Estimate the number of users and the required resources. It is also necessary to evaluate the performance: the computing power of the server, memory and storage, which will ensure the smooth operation of applications. Choose a terminal server with reliable security features, including encryption and access control. Also, pay attention to a solution that provides easy scaling to accommodate the growing number of users. Consider the availability of technical support and the ease of maintenance of the selected solution. ITGLOBAL.COM Solutions: Features and Advantages ITGLOBAL.COM has been successfully operating in the cloud services market since 2008. It is the only provider of VMware solutions in Russia with more than 15 years of expertise. As a virtualization platform, the provider uses VMware vSphere, which provides dynamic load balancing, high availability, and isolation of virtual resources of various clients from each other at the network level. The ITGLOBAL.COM terminal server service includes: the ability to connect users from external networks to virtual desktops; protection of external connections through SSL encryption based on a certificate issued by a public certification authority; balancing client connections to virtual desktops; event logging; Microsoft application software rental; integration with the RDS infrastructure in another location (if technically possible); enabling two-factor authentication (2FA); enabling Kaspersky Security-based antivirus protection; building a dedicated communication channel (for example, to the client's office). [text_with_btn btn="Contact us" id="50"]Terminal Server Service[/text_with_btn] Conclusion: Why Your Company Should Consider a Terminal Server A terminal server is a powerful tool that allows you to optimize business operations, expand remote work opportunities, and increase resource efficiency. Companies can use the potential of it to achieve greater efficiency and flexibility in a competitive business environment.