Thin-client company IGEL Technology can turn a laptop into a thin client with the latest version of its Universal Desktop Converter software.
The growing popularity of wireless networks has given rise to laptop thin clients. But instead of offering its own hardware, IGEL decided to offer software that companies can install on laptops they already have, while also allowing the flexibility to buy ones they want, according to marketing director Frank Lampe.
A license for Universal Desktop Converter 2 costs €59 (US$80), without value-added tax, and turns any x86 laptop into a thin client by installing the latest version of IGEL's customized Linux v5 operating system. The license also includes IGEL's management tool, a combination that helps the company win a lot of deals, Lampe said at the Cebit trade show in Hanover, Germany.
Because the old operating system is replaced, the laptop can exclusively be used to access applications in Citrix XenDesktop, VMware Horizon View or Microsoft Remote Desktop Services environments.
Having the freedom to choose the hardware lets companies pick a thin client and notebook combination to meet their specific requirements, including the ability to provide international offices with country-specific keyboards, according to IGEL.
Universal Desktop Converter software can also be used to convert desktops to thin clients.
For enterprises that don't want to get rid of the traditional operating system -- which, for example, is difficult if employees are allowed to bring their own laptops -- IGEL offers the software thin client packaged on a USB stick. In this case, the local hard drive is typically screened off from the user. As a result, malware such as viruses or Trojans are unable to get into the company network directly.
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