Some of the advantages that thin client computing can offer include:

• Lower IT admin costs - Thin clients are almost entirely centrally managed meaning that support staff rarely need to physically attend to a thin client terminal.

• Easier to secure. In the majority of cases no application data ever resides on the thin client because it is stored and processed on a remote server. This minimises the risks from viruses and spyware as well as from physical data theft.

• Lower hardware costs. Thin client hardware is cheaper than a desktop PC because it does not contain a disk, application memory, or a powerful processor. They also have a longer life-cycle before becoming obsolete. The overall hardware requirements for a thin client system, including servers and clients, are much lower when compared to a traditional desktop client-server network due to increased hardware utilisation.

• Lower Energy Consumption. Thin client hardware has much lower energy consumption than desktop computers. This not only directly reduces energy costs but can also reduce the need for air-conditioning systems which can be a significant additional cost saving and contribute to achieving energy saving targets.

• Easier hardware failure management. If a thin client fails, a replacement can simply be swapped in while the client is repaired; the user is not inconvenienced because their data is not on the client.

• Worthless to most thieves. Thin client hardware is useless outside of a client-server environment.

• Hostile Environments. Most devices have no moving parts so can be used in dusty environments without the worry of PC fans clogging up and overheating.

• Lower noise. No cooling fans means that the units are totally silent. This can create a more pleasant working environment.

• Less damaging on the environment. As fewer resources are required to manufacture a thin client PC, they can remain in service longer, require less power to run, and ultimately require less recycling than an equivalent desktop computer, they have a much smaller impact on the environment than a traditional desktop computer.