NComputing VERDE VDI vs ThinLinc

NComputing VERDE VDI is a virtual desktop infrastructure and management solution combining VDI, offline VDI, and remote branch VDI. Organizations can deploy it on-premise, in the cloud, or in a hybrid arrangement. Cloud Branch technology supports remote offices, and the maker says the system can scale from one server to as many as 10,000 clustered servers. VERDE supports Windows and Linux desktops, including Windows 10 and 11 and several Linux distributions. Users can connect through PCs, thin clients, software clients, or HTML5-enabled browsers; listed client platforms also include Windows, macOS, Linux, iPad, and Android. VERDE Remote Access is included for internet connections to office PCs without a VPN. Its Secure Browser runs Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Whale Browser in a minimal Linux container and erases session data when the browser closes. Security features include configurable USB permissions and non-persistent handling of unsanctioned desktop changes. A trial requires a request and redemption key; the FAQ describes 30 days and 10 seats. Continued connections require a per-concurrent-seat license. The product is paid, with no listed price or free plan.

ThinLinc centrally hosts Linux applications and desktops in a data center or cloud, then makes them available for remote access from Windows, macOS, Linux, or a web browser. Its server feature list includes high availability, fail-over, clustering, load balancing, multiple sessions per user, and single-application publishing. Authentication options include passwords, one-time passwords, public keys, smart cards, and Kerberos tickets. Traffic passes through SSH tunnels and TLS, with encrypted pixels sent to clients. ThinLinc includes TigerVNC, noVNC, OpenSSH, CUPS, and PulseAudio. The maker describes the software as suitable for demanding EDA and CAD workloads, including access from different locations. The server allows three concurrent graphical sessions by default; a separate free license file raises this to ten concurrent users. ThinLinc offers free time-limited evaluation licenses. Its free plan is listed at free, for 10 concurrent users. Standard is $122 a year per user and Premium is $168 a year per user; both are billed in advance for 12 months and cover 1–10 users.