NetPCs are cheaper alternatives to traditional personal computers with limited software, hardware, processing speed, and memory, but a strong emphasis on networking. They lack CD-ROM drives, floppy drives, and hardware expansion slots. They were initially created for businesses to improve connectivity and productivity. They commonly function as advanced terminal devices and support business-related applications.
A netPC, often referred to as a diskless PC or network PC, is an inexpensive alternative to the traditional personal computer. NetPCs run many common applications; however, they’re significantly scaled back in software, hardware, processing speed, and memory, but retain a strong emphasis on networking. For this reason, netPCs are often cheaper to buy than a traditional personal computer and are more commonly used by large companies.
Some people attribute the inception of the networked computer to a concept developed during the mid-1990s, the netPC made its wider debut as a cooperative effort by some of the leading names in computer manufacturing and was initially created with businesses in mind. The purpose of the network computer was to help people in different industries keep costs down and improve both connectivity and productivity. These machines were generally designed to focus on exchanging data that could be handled locally or as a standalone computer in case the network went down at any time.
Unlike the more common personal computer, the netPC usually lacks a CD-ROM drive, floppy drive, and hardware expansion slots. This design is intended to not only lower the price, but to help maintain efficiency and focus by limiting the number of detours, as well as ensuring the integrity of the device. The outer casing of these machines is usually sealed or locked to help prevent reconfiguration of the computer hardware included.
The original incarnation of the netPC did not include or require any specific operating system, as it was a non-proprietary platform. As larger companies began developing diskless PCs, specific operating systems and many of their common applications became standard. Most netPCs have become capable of performing basic functions such as web browsing and email, as well as more complex functions such as booting into multiple operating systems.
While capable of performing a number of other functions, the netPC is commonly used as an advanced terminal device. These machines are designed to support a variety of business-related applications, but may also include software that makes other machines within the network more accessible; general maintenance easier and more cost-effective; and finally, more portable data. Also, most diskless PCs contain a hard disk drive that is widely used to store a temporary cache. This feature is meant to replace permanent data storage and hence, will make your machine run faster.
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