Kanter defines thin-client/server computing as a computing model in which 100 percent of the application processing is done on the server. The book focuses on the technology developed by Citrix Systems to support this computing model; this software is designed for use with Windows platforms. Thus, the book appeals to a specialized audience and is not a general-purpose treatment. The discussion is at a management level rather than a detailed technical level.

The first two chapters provide a useful general introduction to thin-client/server computing. Kanter explains the basic model and provides motivation for the use of this model. He then discusses management issues, such as scalability, and examines specific distributed architectures that can support thin-client/server computing.

Following these general chapters, the remainder of the book concentrates on the Citrix solution. Because this book is published by Microsoft Press, one can assume that this solution has the support of Microsoft for use in the Windows environment. Chapter 3 introduces the components of the thin-client/server architecture, indicating what software is needed on a Windows workstation and what software is required on the NT server. Chapter 4 describes the range of hardware and software platforms that are supported for the client side of the architecture. Chapters 5 and 6 provide guidance and details for configuring and using the architecture. Chapter 7 shows how to use this software for Web-based client/server computing.

Chapter 8 contains nine case studies on the use of the Citrix software. The presentation is in the style of an executive summary, without many implementation details. Nevertheless, this chapter helps readers understand how the thin-client/server model can be exploited.

The book is clearly written and will prove useful to those who want an introduction to thin-client/server computing using this software.