USB Passthrough on Thin Clients: The Simplest Solutions for Seamless Device Integration

Contents

1. Thin Clients Challenges
2. Benefits of USB Passthrough for Thin Clients
3. TOP apps for Thin Client USB Redirection
   3.1. USB Network Gate
   3.2. VMWare Horizon
   3.3. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops
   3.4. Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS)
4. USB passthrough challenges
5. Conclusion

Challenges of Using Thin Clients and VDI USB Redirection

Thin clients are efficient in accessing virtual desktops, but they face limitations when it comes to integrating USB-dependent devices. Without thin client USB passthrough, devices like USB drives, smart card readers, and printers can’t be used effectively in remote environments, leading to:

Decreased Productivity: Workers must frequently switch between local devices and remote systems, which slows down their workflow. Attached to a thin client, a USB peripheral is available in a local session only. It does not seem possible to access a USB zero client device from a remote session.

Increased Complexity: Managing specialized devices, such as biometric scanners, becomes more complicated without seamless integration. Not all types of USB devices can be redirected using native methods, and even if the device is supported it can still work incorrectly in many cases.

Higher Costs: Businesses may have to invest in additional hardware or software to make local devices accessible in virtual setups. When a USB device connected to a thin client is redirected to the server via RDP, all other thin clients are able to access that device, which can be an issue.

The need for USB passthrough is clear: businesses require a way to utilize USB devices in VDI or RDP sessions without complicating their systems or incurring additional costs.

To make things simpler, only those devices that have been shared on the host machine will be shown in the guest OS in your RDP session. Also, you’ll be able to use the option of searching for shared devices on the network.

2. VMware Horizon

VMware Horizon is a robust VDI USB redirection solution that supports USB passthrough for a wide range of devices. Ideal for larger organizations with more complex IT needs, it ensures smooth integration of USB devices into virtual environments with zero client USB redirection.

Key Features:

• Supports high-performance USB redirection for fast, seamless device integration.
• Security features for managing sensitive devices, like smart card readers.

3. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops

Citrix offers comprehensive USB redirection in its virtual desktop solutions, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require flexibility and enhanced device management. While the company’s VDI in a box USB redirection solution is no longer supported, its USB redirection Citrix VDI software provides advanced functionality.

Key Features:

• Device-specific redirection for easy integration of USB printers or scanners.
• Encrypted communication for secure USB redirection.

4. Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

For businesses using Windows Server environments, Microsoft RDS offers basic USB passthrough functionality. It’s a cost-effective choice for small businesses that need to integrate USB devices into a Windows-based virtual environment.

Key Features:

• Native USB redirection for Windows environments.
• Cost-effective for simpler setups.

Challenges of USB Passthrough in Thin Client

While USB passthrough offers numerous benefits, there are a few challenges:

• Network Latency: High-latency networks can impact the performance of USB devices, particularly for devices such as webcams or biometric scanners that require real-time processing.
• Device Compatibility: Not all USB devices may function optimally in a virtualized environment, so thorough testing is essential.
• Security Risks: Allowing USB passthrough can expose systems to security threats. Strong access control and monitoring are required to mitigate these risks.

Conclusion

USB passthrough is crucial for businesses utilizing thin clients and VDI solutions, enabling seamless integration of USB devices with virtual desktops. Options like USB Network Gate, the simplest and most user-friendly solution, allow businesses to implement USB passthrough with minimal setup and no hassle. Whether you're using VMware Horizon, Citrix, or Microsoft RDS, the right USB passthrough solution ensures that your team can remain productive and secure while using essential USB devices in virtual environments.