Problem

We are considering moving to a new server to run AGRIS... There are mixed opinions on if we should use Citrix solution vs Microsoft's Remote Desktop Protocol server solution.  What do I need?

To Citrix or Not to Citrix – that is the question

Citrix provides great solutions where remote graphical screen refreshes are required.  Examples are art, photography and other diverse image display requirements when connected remotely to a server. 

Microsoft RDP also provides solutions for most remote connections to display screen refreshes in a timely manner.

Looking back in time

As the technology continues to advance, the gap between both options continues to narrow while distinguishing features continue to compete to provide the competitive advantage to both companies.  

Greenstone's perspective

We views both solutions as an excellent choice as long as you understand and apply the proper tool for the correct environments.  

How do I decide?

• Does your company:
  1. Plan to share / publish applications with low graphic requirements remotely (examples spreadsheets, word publishing, AGRIS commodity management)?   
  2. Do you have significant bandwidth to your remote locations to allow connectivity?

Microsoft RDP may be the best solution for you. 

• Does your company:
  1. Have locations in very remote locations with sub-optimal internet connections?
     1. Can every employee at the location surf the internet while streaming video and or music without interruptions?  While Greenstone does not recommend this behavior across business communication infrastructure, it is a really a good test to aid your decisions.
  2. Does your internet speed increase around 8 AM and slow down around 2:30 - 3:30 PM (time that school dismisses for the day)?
  3. Use AgroGuide or other programs with a graphically intense screen displays that need to be communicated and changed as part of the daily process?
  4. When you want to download a 10GB file, do you plan to start this process after work and then check on success the next morning?

If any of these are true, then your company may need to consider the following:

1. Increase your remote bandwidth
2. Ensure your RDP server is sized correctly to upgrade to Citrix if needed.
3. Take advantage of Citrix communication options instead of Microsoft RDP server connections. 

This suggestion is based on many factors but should be considered when performance of the screen refresh rate is too slow.

Please work with your Information Technology / hardware provider to better help your team size your server correctly for the future... not just for today.

Related articles and links.

https://www.citrix.com/products/

https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa383015(v=vs.85).aspx

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