What is a terminal server and how do you use it?

2 Terminal server types

There are various types of terminal servers, depending on the protocol or technology they use to connect the terminals and the host. Microsoft's Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a popular choice, allowing users to access a Windows-based host computer or network from any device, with features like printing, audio, video, and clipboard sharing. Telnet is an older, simpler protocol often used for testing or troubleshooting, but it is not secure. Secure Shell (SSH) is a more secure and versatile protocol that encrypts data and authenticates users, with features such as file transfer, port forwarding, and tunneling. X Window System is a graphical protocol used to access Unix-like operating systems such as Linux or macOS, with capabilities like displaying multiple windows of different applications on the terminals, keyboard and mouse input, clipboard sharing, and sound output.

3 Terminal server benefits

Using a terminal server for computer networking can offer several advantages, such as cost savings, scalability, security, and accessibility. Cost savings can be achieved by allowing multiple users to share the same resources and applications on the host. Furthermore, scalability is improved by adding more resources or sessions to the host without needing to upgrade or replace the terminals. Additionally, security is enhanced by storing data and applications on the host rather than on the terminals. Lastly, accessibility is improved by allowing users to access data and applications from any location or device, as long as they have a connection to the server. This also enables users to switch between terminals without losing their work or settings.

4 Terminal server drawbacks

Using a terminal server for computer networking can have some drawbacks, such as affecting the performance of data and applications due to the speed and reliability of the connection between terminals and the host. The server may become overloaded or unstable if there are too many users or sessions running on the host. Additionally, compatibility can be limited since data and applications must run on the host's operating system and platform. Users may not be able to use some features or functions of the applications, or display them properly, if they are not compatible with the server's protocol or technology. Furthermore, control can be reduced since the server has authority to manage, configure, or update the data and applications. Users may not be able to customize or modify the applications or access some resources or settings if they are not allowed by the server.