by Greg Shields

To best explain this behavior, consider the Outlook client. When connected to an Exchange Server, this client has a high expectation of good network performance between the client and server. But there are times when that Outlook client cannot be in close network proximity to its server, such as when the user is in a remote office or is working over a VPN line. In either of these cases, Outlook is likely to experience low performance because the network cannot provide for the load required by the client.

One very effective use of Terminal Services is in just these circumstances. By installing a Terminal Server in close network proximity to the “server” half of a client/server application, the Terminal Server can handle the bandwidth-intensive client-to-server communication. At the same time, it will serve up the user interface (UI) to the user through the not-intensive RDP.

Always keep in mind the low-bandwidth and/or high-latency benefits of RDP and how it impacts where you may position your Terminal Servers. Be conscious about where you position your Terminal Servers in relation to those servers your applications work with as well as the position of users who run your applications.

RDP used by Terminal Services is “thinner” than most protocols used by client/server applications today. As such, it can often be an excellent solution for hosting applications for remote offices and users when the performance of local clients just won’t work for your users.

About the Author

Greg Shields is an independent author, speaker, and IT consultant, as well as a Partner and Principal Technologist with Concentrated Technology. With 15 years in information technology, Greg has developed extensive experience in systems administration, engineering, and architecture specializing in Microsoft OS, remote application, systems management, and virtualization technologies. He is a Contributing Editor and columnist for TechNet Magazine and Redmond Magazine, and serves as the Series Editor for Realtime Publishers, the world’s leading provider of high-quality content for the IT market. Greg is a highly sought-after and top-ranked speaker for both live and recorded events, and is seen regularly at conferences like TechMentor Events, Microsoft Tech Ed, VMworld, and more. He is a multiple recipient of Microsoft “Most Valuable Professional” award.