Benefits

The benefits of thin client computing with the PL/B Application Server include:

• Deployment - Since only the small Client Interface is installed remotely, deployment of applications is done on the local server. No PL/B programs or data files are installed remotely and no wasted time traveling to remote sites or worries that the remote site is running an outdated version of the application. To deploy a new application or upgrade, simply copy the files to the server. The Client Interface may be deployed via a simple Internet download.

 

• Security - The Client Interface communicates with the Application Engine via the TCP/IP protocol. The server can be configured to limit access to specific remote addresses. Additionally, the communication protocol between the client and the server is encoded and compressed.

 

• Scalability - The Application Server provides a degree of scalability not seen before. Small remote offices can access corporate data without the need for complicated servers or communication devices, system administrative costs, or additional personnel. The corporation can rest assured that the valuable data is secure and available to authorized users. Large enterprise users can employ additional servers as needed to support new applications or additional users.

 

• Programming - The most revolutionary aspect of the PL/B Application Server is that there is little or no programming required to implement the Application Server Solution. Existing programs will execute without even a recompile. Realistically, some thought regarding the deployment of the application in the new environment should be given.

 

• Performance - Since no browser technology is employed in this solution, Sunbelt is free to tune both the client and server processes for optimum performance. Communication messages are compressed and intelligently buffered adding to the overall performance. Beyond the operating systems, there is no reliance on external programs.

 

• Additional Return on Investment - Most corporations have a tremendous investment in application software. With the Application Server, that investment is preserved while transitioning to thin clients. There is no new language to learn, no files to be ported, and no "new way" of designing your applications.