HP D7171A - NetServer - LPr Applications page 6

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Tier Three
Database
Server
Tier Two
Terminal
Server
Tier One
Thin Clients
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A thin client is basically a simplified desktop device that provides reliable and fast access to any
networked resources. Thin clients have no local hard drive, no local storage and do not require
a large or complicated desktop operating system to function.
Thin clients address the need for an extremely reliable, secure and compact desktop device
that offers the familiarity of a windows-type graphical user interface. Thin clients are often
deployed in "task-based" offices where the user needs access to one or a few specific
applications.
MediaOne, a provider of cable television, high-speed Internet access, telephone and television
services, uses the HP NetServer LPr in a thin-client computing environment. The servers are
part of the front-end of a multi-tier business applications system used for computing their
financial, accounting, payroll and tax requirement and for managing their centralized reporting
and information gathering functions.
Emerging Services including applications service providers (ASPs) and outsourcing
A new market segment is developing whereby organizations outsource the information
technology (IT) portion of their infrastructure. The ASP, a specialist organization, hosts and
possibly supports one or more applications as well as the infrastructure (hardware and
software) and provides access to the Internet. These services are provided on behalf on the
primary company that needs to outsource IT functions. The application service provider,
depending upon the client's requirements, will either dedicate an entire server to a client
Database
Server
Application
Servers
Multiple
Applications
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