NComputing Frequently Asked Questions

What is NComputing?

Simply put, the NComputing technology allows multiple people to simultaneously access the resources of one shared computer. NComputing provides the software, protocol, and hardware to do this in a very simple and cost-effective manner.

Who is using this technology?

With over 3 million desktops currently powered by NComputing all over the world, the customer base is comprised of every type ranging from small villages to Fortune 500 companies. These customers all have a few things in common; multiple computers with a desire to cut costs, reduce energy consumption, and save time by managing fewer computers while maintaining or growing the number of workstations in their organization.

Can I be compliant with Microsoft by using NComputing?

Yes. In November of 2009, Microsoft and NComputing formed an official alliance and as such, maintain a close partnership. For detailed information on what licenses need to be purchased in order to be compliant with Microsoft while using NComputing, please visit http://www.fireflycomp.com/content/licensing

How much does the solution cost? What all do I get?

Pricing is contingent on three things; product line, quantity purchased and current promotions. With these factors, the range of cost per seat is anywhere from $60-$185. The NComputing products come bundled with the access device, NComputing’s software (vSpace), and NComputing’s proprietary protocol (UXP), along with a three year warranty. The X and L series products do not come with patch cables to connect to the host machine, however the U-series comes with a USB cable to connect to the host. The per seat cost does not include host machines, peripherals or licensing, which FireFly can supply

Can each user be doing something different simultaneously? Do they all have to be doing the same thing?

Out of the box, each user will be presented with the same applications as the host computer, but do not need to be running the same application simultaneously. Furthermore, each user can save their own settings exactly the way they would if they were using a PC

So I must need a spendy and powerful host computer, right?

The host machine doesn’t need to be as powerful as you may think. A host machine running Server 2003, has a multi-core processor and 2+GB of RAM can easily support 10 users that are simultaneously web browsing and running your basic MS Office Suite applications

What happens if the shared host computer goes down?

There are many pros to having multiple people share one computer. You’ll have one computer to manage, one computer to update, one computer to clean if infected, and when it’s time for a refresh — one computer to purchase. However in the event that the host computer were to go down, all users sharing that computer will also be left without a workstation. The L-series does come with features to help soften this blow, but having a few back up host machines may be a good idea

How will I know what hardware and software is compatible with NComputing?

NComputing has strived to become compatible with as many pieces of hardware and software possible that are commonly used today. However, upon qualification, we will provide you with an evaluation unit to test the hardware and software used in your environment. Everyone’s environment is slightly different, and as such thorough testing is strongly recommended

Does NComputing work with Linux?

Yes, however only certain NComputing products work with certain variations of Linux. Please check with your FireFly sales representative for further details

NComputing Frequently Asked Questions

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