>My concern about CTXS is that as new applications are written, won't they be Web applications, and therefore not need ICA? I completely understand the logic of ICA for Windows Applications, but I just wonder how many more Windows only applications will be written. Everyone seems to be focused on the Web.<
Alan,
Jay hit the nail on the head with his explanation of using Citrix to access programs residing on the corporate web server via a web browser either on the LAN or WAN, or from anywhere in the world for that matter. But I don't think that's what you meant to ask.
I believe when you said, "Web applications" you meant to say, " Java applications." Well that's a good question. Java was developed to actually send Java apps (tiny programs) directly to your desktop from the server. Once on the desktop it is processed and used. It has nothing really to do with the Citrix solution of sending nothing to the desktop (except screen refreshes generated by the server). Both are meant to be solutions to the bandwidth and multiple platforms problems.
Supposedly (according to SUNW) there are thousands of people working on Java apps. Where they are? I don't know. I know that Corel dropped it's WordPerfect Java version recently (I think it was Corel) and I have read of others. My feeling is Java won't make it. But I could easily be mistaken!
If Java did turn out to be extremely popular, this of course would not be good for Citrix. Java and Citrix don't mix. Both are completely different solutions to the same problems. Java is meant to send software down the pipe, Citrix avoids it like the plague. But thin client networking is going to be huge. I'm sure there will be more than enough room for one winner. That is to say, unless Microsoft squashes everyone with their NT software.
Hope this helps,
MikeM(From Florida)
PS I earlier posted that I don't understand why Citrix doesn't promote remote networking and VPN abilities. Well yesterday I got an advertisement in the mail from Citrix (pure coincidence), and it was solely devoted to promoting the remote networking solution. They gave 5 real world examples of the benefits of using Citrix's WinFrame as a remote access solution. Very impressive examples. |
