A terminal server provides a way for multiple users to access network resources and software applications. Users log in to the terminal server from remote locations through secure connections and access the server as if they were working at a desktop.

Another type of computer terminal server allows users to access non-networked devices through a serial port. Terminal servers can be useful in a variety of ways, including:

1. Terminal services provide a way for employees to work from home or other remote locations.

2. Technicians and network administrators can use terminal server tools to troubleshoot problems from a distance.

3. Serial terminal servers can be used to share serial devices over a network.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out how to configure terminal server

Terminal server software is included on Windows servers. For Linux, LTSP is a popular package that allows clients to connect to a Linux server. Before getting started with terminal services, learn how they work and read up on the best practices and resources for a successful implementation.

I recommend: An overview of terminal services for Windows Server is available from Microsoft. Support resources include chats, forums and newsgroups. Microsoft TechNet provides a more detailed study of terminal services, including architecture and processes. Linux server users can download a copy of LTSP for Linux from the Linux Terminal Server Project website. The site covers topics related to configuring and supporting terminal services in Linux.

Configure terminal server client software

For users to connect to your network terminal server, you must first configure client software on their computers.

I recommend: New Windows PC operating systems include Remote Desktop, client software that is used to connect to a terminal server. If you have older operating systems, from Windows 95 to 2000, download the client from Microsoft. It's easy to set up simply by entering the Internet protocol (IP) address of the server to connect to. You can also download rdesktop, a free, open source client that connects Unix and Windows clients to a Windows terminal server.

Get a serial-to-Ethernet remote terminal server

Serial-to-Ethernet terminal server devices are used to access devices that don't have Ethernet ports, such as bar code readers, scanners, cash registers and other point of sale devices.

I recommend: Terminal server providers include Lantronix, Aaxeon and Perle. The number of server ports range from 8 to 48 and include compact and rack mount servers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When choosing online terminal servers for serial devices, look for power over Ethernet (POE) capability. With POE, power comes from the network. It allows for a more flexible install since you don't need to place the device near a power outlet.
• •  Before implementing terminal services, you'll need to set up your firewall to allow remote connections to the server through transmission control protocol (TCP) or user datagram protocol (UDP).