Types of VDI Thin Clients
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) thin clients are specialized computing devices designed to connect to centralized virtual desktops, offering secure, efficient, and scalable access to enterprise resources. Unlike traditional PCs, thin clients rely on server-side processing, making them ideal for organizations prioritizing centralized management, security, and reduced IT overhead.
Available in various configurations, VDI thin clients cater to diverse workloads and environments—from general office use to high-performance engineering and sensitive healthcare settings. Understanding the different types helps organizations choose the right solution for their specific operational needs.
General Purpose
Ideal for everyday office productivity tasks such as email, web browsing, document creation, and business applications.
Advantages
- Balanced performance for common applications
- Cost-effective deployment
- Energy-efficient and low maintenance
- Quick boot-up with SSD storage
Limitations
- Limited capability for graphics-intensive tasks
- Not suitable for high-end software
- Typically capped at 8GB RAM
Best for: Office workers, call centers, administrative staff
Graphic Design & Multimedia
Engineered for creative professionals requiring high-performance rendering and smooth playback of visual content.
Advantages
- Supports GPU acceleration for graphics workloads
- High RAM capacity (16GB+)
- Smooth performance in Adobe Creative Suite, video editors, and 3D modeling tools
- Optimized for VDI platforms with GPU virtualization (vGPU)
Limitations
- Higher cost than standard models
- Increased power consumption
- Requires robust network and backend infrastructure
Best for: Designers, video editors, animation studios, media production teams
Engineering & CAD
Built for running complex engineering simulations and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software in virtualized environments.
Advantages
- Powerful multi-core processors for computational tasks
- Dedicated graphics support for precision modeling
- High memory bandwidth for large assemblies and datasets
- Compatible with engineering VDI solutions like Citrix or VMware Horizon with vGPU
Limitations
- Premium pricing
- Requires high-bandwidth, low-latency network
- May need specialized drivers or firmware
Best for: Mechanical engineers, architects, product designers, simulation analysts
Large Memory
Designed for memory-intensive applications such as data analytics, virtualization, and scientific computing.
Advantages
- 32GB or more RAM for handling large datasets
- Excellent for in-memory databases and virtual machines
- Reduces latency in data processing workflows
- Suitable for AI/ML development environments
Limitations
- Overkill for standard office use
- Higher power and cooling requirements
- Limited availability and higher cost
Best for: Data scientists, developers, researchers, IT administrators
Dual Display
Enables multi-monitor productivity by supporting two external displays from a single unit.
Advantages
- Increases workspace efficiency and multitasking
- Supports extended or mirrored display modes
- Ideal for financial traders, developers, and customer service
- Reduces clutter with consolidated hardware
Limitations
- Requires compatible monitors and cabling
- May need additional GPU resources on the server
- Not all models support high-resolution dual 4K output
Best for: Traders, software developers, support agents, analysts
Fanless
Passively cooled thin clients with no moving parts, ensuring silent and reliable operation.
Advantages
- Completely silent operation
- Higher reliability and longer lifespan
- Dust-resistant and suitable for harsh environments
- Low maintenance and ideal for wall mounting
Limitations
- Lower thermal headroom limits performance
- May throttle under sustained load
- Fewer high-performance options available
Best for: Libraries, classrooms, hospitals, laboratories, public kiosks
Healthcare
Specially designed for clinical environments with enhanced security, hygiene, and compliance features.
Advantages
- Sealed, antimicrobial casing for easy disinfection
- HIPAA-compliant security and authentication (e.g., smart card, biometrics)
- Remote management for quick deployment across facilities
- Mountable on carts, walls, or beds for flexible use
Limitations
- Higher cost due to specialized features
- May require integration with hospital IT systems
- Limited customization options
Best for: Hospitals, clinics, nursing stations, mobile medical carts
Education
Tailored for schools and universities with durability, manageability, and cost-efficiency in mind.
Advantages
- Durable design to withstand student use
- Centralized management for IT departments
- Supports multi-user profiles and classroom software
- Budget-friendly with low total cost of ownership (TCO)
Limitations
- Lower specs may limit advanced applications
- May require network upgrades for large deployments
- Less flexibility for personalization
Best for: Classrooms, computer labs, libraries, distance learning centers
| Type | Performance Level | Key Features | Target Users | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Purpose | Medium | 4–8GB RAM, SSD, multi-core CPU | Office workers | Email, web, office apps |
| Graphic Design & Multimedia | High | 16GB+ RAM, GPU support, vGPU ready | Creative professionals | Video editing, design software |
| Engineering & CAD | Very High | Dedicated graphics, 16GB+ RAM, powerful CPU | Engineers, architects | CAD, simulations, modeling |
| Large Memory | Very High | 32GB+ RAM, optimized for data workloads | Data scientists, developers | Data analytics, virtualization |
| Dual Display | Medium–High | Supports two external monitors | Analysts, developers | Multi-tasking, trading |
| Fanless | Low–Medium | No moving parts, silent, rugged | All users in quiet zones | Libraries, hospitals, labs |
| Healthcare | Medium–High | Antimicrobial, secure, compliant | Medical staff | Clinical environments |
| Education | Medium | Durable, manageable, cost-effective | Students, teachers | Classrooms, labs |
Expert Tip: When deploying VDI thin clients, ensure your network infrastructure supports sufficient bandwidth and low latency—especially for graphics-intensive or real-time applications. Pairing the right thin client type with an optimized backend (vGPU, high-speed storage, and adequate server resources) ensures a seamless user experience.
Function and Features of VDI Thin Clients
A thin client for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a specialized computing device designed to connect to virtual desktop environments hosted on centralized servers. Unlike traditional PCs, thin clients do not run full operating systems or store data locally. Instead, they serve as access terminals to remotely hosted desktops, making them ideal for secure, scalable, and energy-efficient IT environments.
In a VDI setup, each user’s desktop environment runs within a virtual machine (VM) on a powerful server located in a data center or cloud environment. The thin client device streams the desktop interface to the user’s screen and transmits input from keyboard, mouse, and peripherals back to the server. This architecture enables consistent performance, simplified management, and enhanced security across large organizations.
Core Functions of a VDI Thin Client
VDI Connection
Thin clients come pre-installed with connection brokers and client software that enable seamless access to virtual desktop hosts. These clients support major VDI platforms such as VMware Horizon, Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, and Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop. The connection process is often automated, allowing users to log in quickly with minimal configuration.
Advanced thin clients can store multiple connection profiles, enabling fast switching between different virtual environments or data centers—ideal for hybrid or multi-cloud deployments.
Remote Desktop Access
Users interact with their virtual desktops through high-performance remote display protocols like Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), PCoIP (PC-over-IP), Teradici Cloud Access, and BLAST Extreme. These protocols optimize screen rendering, audio, video, and peripheral redirection to deliver a responsive and near-native user experience—even over limited bandwidth connections.
Modern thin clients support HD and 4K display outputs, USB redirection, multi-monitor setups, and multimedia acceleration to support diverse workloads including office productivity, design, and light engineering tasks.
Centralized Management
One of the greatest advantages of thin clients is their ability to be managed centrally. IT administrators can deploy firmware updates, configure security policies, monitor device health, and troubleshoot issues across hundreds or thousands of endpoints from a single console.
Management platforms like Dell Wyse Management Suite, HP Thin Pro Center, or IGEL Universal Management Suite provide granular control over device settings, user access, and application delivery—significantly reducing operational overhead and improving compliance.
Device Compatibility & Flexibility
Thin clients are highly adaptable and can be deployed as dedicated hardware terminals, repurposed older PCs running thin client OS (e.g., IGEL OS, ThinStation), or even software clients on tablets and laptops. This flexibility allows organizations to extend the lifecycle of existing hardware while transitioning to a VDI model.
Hardware thin clients are optimized for low power consumption and durability, often featuring solid-state designs with no moving parts—making them ideal for harsh environments such as factories, hospitals, or retail locations.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Thin Client
| Feature | Importance | Recommended Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | High | Linux-based (e.g., IGEL OS, ThinLinux), minimal footprint, regular security updates |
| Display Support | High | HDMI or DisplayPort; dual-monitor support at 1080p or 4K@30Hz minimum |
| Network Connectivity | High | Gigabit Ethernet; optional Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Security | High | TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, AES encryption, MFA support |
| USB & Peripheral Support | Medium | 4+ USB ports (USB 3.0+), USB redirection, audio, webcam, printer support |
| Management Capabilities | High | Centralized console, firmware over-the-air (FOTA), remote diagnostics |
Important: While thin clients enhance security and reduce IT complexity, selecting the right model requires careful evaluation of user workload, network infrastructure, and VDI platform compatibility. Underpowered devices can lead to poor user experience, while over-spec’d clients increase costs unnecessarily. Always conduct pilot testing before large-scale deployment.
Applications of VDI Thin Client
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) thin clients are transforming how organizations across industries manage computing resources, enhance security, and improve operational efficiency. By centralizing desktop environments on servers, thin clients provide secure, scalable, and cost-effective access to critical applications and data. Below is a comprehensive overview of key industry applications where VDI thin clients deliver significant value.
Healthcare Facilities
The healthcare sector is one of the most prominent adopters of VDI thin client technology, driven by the need for secure, compliant, and efficient access to sensitive patient data through Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.
- HIPAA Compliance: Thin clients support strict regulatory requirements under HIPAA by minimizing local data storage and enabling centralized control over access, encryption, and audit trails.
- Seamless Integration: VDI environments integrate smoothly with healthcare standards such as HL7 (Health Level Seven) for data exchange and DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) for medical imaging workflows.
- Enhanced Security: Since no data resides on the endpoint device, the risk of data breaches from lost or stolen devices is significantly reduced.
- Clinical Mobility: Doctors and nurses can securely access patient records from any workstation, improving response times and continuity of care.
Key Benefit: VDI enables healthcare providers to maintain high availability and regulatory compliance while reducing IT complexity and downtime.
Education Sector
Schools, colleges, and universities leverage VDI thin clients to create flexible, scalable, and secure digital learning environments that support both academic and administrative operations.
- Digital Learning Platforms: Students and educators access virtual desktops with pre-configured software, learning management systems (LMS), and course materials from labs, classrooms, or remote locations.
- Lab and Classroom Management: IT administrators can deploy standardized desktop images across hundreds of devices, ensuring consistency and reducing setup time.
- Cost Efficiency: Thin clients consume less power, require minimal maintenance, and have longer lifespans than traditional PCs—ideal for budget-conscious institutions.
- Administrative Use: Secure access to student information systems (SIS), grading tools, and HR platforms helps streamline enrollment, scheduling, and reporting.
Pro Tip: VDI allows schools to extend the life of older hardware by repurposing them as thin clients, supporting sustainability goals.
Financial Services
Banks, insurance firms, and FinTech companies rely on VDI thin clients to secure financial transactions, protect customer data, and scale operations efficiently in a highly regulated environment.
- Data Protection: Sensitive financial data remains in the data center, not on endpoint devices, reducing exposure to cyber threats and insider risks.
- Centralized Management: IT teams can rapidly deploy, update, or revoke access to trading platforms, banking software, and compliance tools across global branches.
- Cloud Integration: VDI seamlessly connects with private, public, or hybrid cloud infrastructures, enabling flexible delivery of financial services and remote work capabilities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Supports adherence to standards such as PCI-DSS, SOX, and GDPR through audit logging, access controls, and secure session management.
Strategic Advantage: Financial institutions use VDI to balance innovation and security, especially in digital banking and mobile financial services.
Automated Industries
In manufacturing, energy, and industrial automation, VDI thin clients serve as reliable interfaces for monitoring and controlling complex operational processes in demanding environments.
- Process Control Systems: Thin clients provide real-time access to SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems for monitoring production lines, machinery status, and environmental conditions.
- Durability & Reliability: Industrial-grade thin clients are designed to withstand dust, heat, vibration, and electromagnetic interference common in factory settings.
- Distributed Access: Workers across different zones (e.g., control rooms, assembly floors, maintenance stations) can securely access centralized systems without needing full PCs.
- Reduced Downtime: Quick replacement of failed units—since configuration is server-based—minimizes production interruptions.
Operational Impact: VDI enhances visibility and responsiveness in industrial operations, supporting Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing initiatives.
Implementation Insight: Organizations across all sectors benefit from VDI thin clients not only through improved security and lower TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), but also via faster disaster recovery, simplified software updates, and support for hybrid work models. When deploying VDI, ensure network reliability and adequate server capacity to maintain performance, especially in high-concurrency environments like call centers or exam halls.
| Industry | Primary Use Case | Key Benefits | Common Integrations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | EMR/EHR Access & Clinical Workflows | HIPAA compliance, data security, mobility | HL7, DICOM, PACS, SSO |
| Education | Digital Classrooms & Admin Systems | Cost savings, scalability, ease of management | LMS (e.g., Moodle, Canvas), SIS, Office 365 |
| Financial Services | Secure Transaction Processing | Data protection, audit readiness, remote access | Core Banking, CRM, Cloud Platforms |
| Automated Industries | SCADA & Process Monitoring | Reliability, real-time access, low maintenance | PLC Systems, HMI, IoT Gateways |
Additional Considerations for VDI Adoption
- Network Infrastructure: High-speed, low-latency networks are essential for optimal VDI performance, especially for multimedia or graphics-intensive applications.
- User Experience: Modern VDI solutions support HD displays, USB peripherals, and audio redirection, ensuring a seamless desktop experience.
- Scalability: VDI allows organizations to scale up or down quickly based on demand—ideal for seasonal workloads or temporary staff.
- Environmental Impact: Thin clients consume up to 70% less energy than traditional desktops, contributing to greener IT operations.
- Future-Proofing: As remote work and digital transformation accelerate, VDI provides a foundation for secure, anywhere-access computing.
How to Choose the Right VDI Thin Client for Your Organization
Selecting the appropriate Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) thin client is a strategic decision that directly impacts user productivity, IT management efficiency, and long-term operational costs. A well-chosen thin client ensures seamless access to virtual desktops while reducing hardware complexity and energy consumption. This comprehensive guide outlines the critical factors to evaluate when choosing a VDI thin client, helping businesses and IT departments make informed, future-ready decisions.
Important Note: A thin client is not just a low-powered PC—it’s a purpose-built endpoint designed to securely connect to centralized virtual desktops. Choosing the right model ensures optimal performance, security, and scalability across your VDI environment.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a VDI Thin Client
- Performance and Hardware Specifications
The performance of a thin client must align with the demands of your virtualized applications and user workloads. Underpowered devices can lead to lag, poor responsiveness, and reduced productivity.
- CPU: Choose between entry-level (dual-core) for basic office tasks and high-performance (quad-core or ARM-based) for multimedia, engineering, or design applications.
- RAM: 4GB is standard for light use; 8GB or more is recommended for multi-monitor setups or resource-intensive applications.
- Storage: While thin clients typically don’t rely on local storage, having 8–32GB of flash storage supports firmware, caching, and offline capabilities.
- Graphics Support: Ensure hardware acceleration for smooth video playback and support for modern display protocols (e.g., H.264, H.265).
- Connectivity Options
Reliable and flexible connectivity is essential for maintaining stable VDI sessions and supporting peripheral devices.
- Network: Gigabit Ethernet is standard; Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is essential for mobile or wireless environments.
- USB Ports: Multiple USB 3.0/3.1 ports support keyboards, mice, webcams, smart cards, and docking stations.
- Display Outputs: Support for dual or triple monitors via HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA enhances productivity.
- Audio and Serial Ports: Include if legacy devices or headsets are in use.
- VDI Platform Compatibility
Ensure the thin client is certified and optimized for your chosen VDI solution to avoid compatibility issues and ensure optimal performance.
- Verify support for major platforms: Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), VMware Horizon, and Red Hat Virtualization.
- Check for built-in support for display protocols like HDX, RDP, PCoIP, Blast Extreme, and SPICE.
- Look for firmware updates that regularly add protocol enhancements and security patches.
- Management and Scalability
Centralized management reduces IT overhead and enables rapid deployment, monitoring, and troubleshooting across hundreds or thousands of endpoints.
- Choose thin clients with integrated management consoles (e.g., IGEL OS, Dell Wyse Management Suite, HP ThinPro).
- Support for zero-touch provisioning allows automated deployment without manual configuration.
- Remote monitoring, diagnostics, and software updates minimize downtime and on-site support needs.
- Ensure compatibility with existing IT infrastructure, such as Active Directory, MDM, or endpoint management tools.
- Cost and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
While thin clients have a higher upfront cost than repurposed PCs, their long-term savings are significant.
- Hardware Costs: Compare models based on performance, durability, and warranty.
- Licensing: Some thin clients require OS or protocol licenses (e.g., Windows IoT, Citrix Workspace app).
- Energy Efficiency: Thin clients consume 5–15W vs. 60–150W for traditional PCs, reducing electricity costs.
- Maintenance: Longer lifespan (6–10 years), fewer failures, and remote management lower support costs.
- Scalability: Easily add new users without upgrading backend infrastructure.
- Security Features
Thin clients are inherently more secure than full PCs due to minimal local storage and reduced attack surface.
- Look for features like secure boot, TPM 2.0, and encrypted firmware.
- Role-based access control and multi-factor authentication (MFA) integration enhance endpoint security.
- Local data isolation prevents unauthorized access or data leakage.
- Regular security updates and vulnerability patching are critical for compliance (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS).
- User Experience and Flexibility
A seamless user experience ensures high adoption and productivity, especially for remote or hybrid workers.
- Support for personalized desktops, roaming profiles, and persistent sessions.
- Peripheral compatibility with printers, scanners, biometric devices, and USB headsets.
- Audio/video redirection for VoIP and conferencing tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Zoom).
- Form factors: Choose from compact desktop, wall-mountable, or all-in-one models based on workspace needs.
| Selection Criteria | Recommended Features | Common Trade-offs | Top Vendor Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | Quad-core CPU, 8GB RAM, hardware graphics acceleration | Higher cost, increased power use | Dell Wyse, HP t-Series, Lenovo ThinkCentre |
| Connectivity | Dual Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C, multi-display support | Complexity in configuration | IGEL, ClearCube, Acer |
| VDI Compatibility | Certified for Citrix, VMware, Microsoft AVD | Limited support for niche platforms | Teradici, HPE, Fujitsu |
| Management | Cloud-based console, zero-touch deployment, remote updates | Subscription licensing costs | IGEL Universal Management Suite, Dell vWorkspace |
| Security | TPM 2.0, secure boot, encrypted storage | May require additional configuration | HP, Lenovo, Stoneware |
Expert Tip: Conduct a pilot deployment with a small group of users before rolling out thin clients organization-wide. This allows you to evaluate real-world performance, identify compatibility issues, and gather user feedback—ensuring a smoother, more successful full-scale implementation.
Additional Recommendations for Long-Term Success
- Future-Proofing: Choose models with upgradeable firmware and support for emerging protocols and security standards.
- Environmental Impact: Thin clients are more sustainable due to lower energy consumption and longer lifespans.
- Remote Work Support: Ensure thin clients can operate effectively over WAN connections with bandwidth optimization features.
- Vendor Support: Evaluate warranty terms, technical support availability, and community forums.
- User Training: Provide guidance on logging in, using peripherals, and troubleshooting common issues.
Choosing the right VDI thin client is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires a thorough understanding of your organization’s applications, user needs, security policies, and IT capabilities. By carefully evaluating each factor outlined above, you can select a solution that delivers a responsive, secure, and scalable virtual desktop experience—now and in the future. When in doubt, consult with VDI specialists or vendors to tailor the best fit for your environment.
VDI Thin Client: Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) thin clients are widely regarded as a secure computing solution, particularly in enterprise environments. Unlike traditional PCs, thin clients do not store sensitive data locally, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches from lost or stolen devices.
Security is further enhanced through multiple layers of protection, including:
- End-to-End Encryption: Data transmitted between the thin client and the central server is encrypted using protocols such as TLS and SSL, safeguarding information in transit.
- Centralized Security Policies: IT administrators can enforce uniform security standards—such as password complexity, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and access controls—across all virtual desktops from a single management console.
- Network Security: Firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and virtual private networks (VPNs) help protect the backend infrastructure hosting virtual machines.
- Reduced Attack Surface: Since thin clients run minimal operating systems with limited local functionality, they are less vulnerable to malware, phishing, and unauthorized software installation.
This centralized, locked-down architecture makes VDI thin clients an ideal choice for industries with strict compliance requirements, such as healthcare, finance, and government.
No, VDI thin clients are inherently dependent on a continuous and stable network connection to function. They act as access terminals to virtual desktops hosted on remote servers, meaning all processing and data storage occur in the data center—not on the device itself.
If the network connection is interrupted, users will lose access to their virtual desktops and any running applications. Some key implications include:
- No Local Processing: Thin clients lack the independent computing power to run desktop environments without server connectivity.
- Limited Offline Capabilities: Unlike thick clients or laptops with local virtualization, thin clients cannot cache sessions or operate in a disconnected mode.
- Network Reliability is Critical: Organizations must invest in robust network infrastructure, including redundancy and low-latency connections, to ensure uninterrupted productivity.
For environments where network outages are common, hybrid solutions—such as cached desktops on semi-thick clients—may be considered, but these deviate from the pure thin client model.
VDI thin clients are highly scalable, making them an excellent fit for organizations experiencing growth or fluctuating workforce demands. The architecture separates the client hardware from the computing resources, allowing businesses to scale up or down with minimal disruption.
Key scalability advantages include:
- Effortless User Expansion: Adding new users typically involves deploying additional thin client devices and provisioning virtual desktops on the server side—no need to upgrade individual workstations.
- Dynamic Resource Allocation: Server resources (CPU, RAM, storage) can be dynamically allocated based on user needs, supporting everything from basic office tasks to resource-intensive applications.
- Centralized Management: Tools like VMware Horizon, Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, or Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop enable administrators to manage thousands of virtual desktops from a single interface.
- Cost-Efficient Scaling: Because thin clients are inexpensive and long-lasting, scaling user count doesn’t require large capital expenditures on endpoint hardware.
This scalability supports remote workforces, seasonal staffing, and rapid organizational changes, all while maintaining consistent performance and user experience.
Deploying VDI thin clients offers a wide range of operational, financial, and security benefits, making them a strategic choice for modern IT environments. Key advantages include:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Centralized Management | All desktop images, software updates, and policies are managed from a central server. This simplifies maintenance, reduces IT workload, and ensures consistency across all user environments. |
| Lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) | Thin clients consume less power, have longer lifespans (6–10 years), and require less frequent upgrades than traditional PCs, resulting in significant long-term savings. |
| Enhanced Data Security | Critical data remains in the secure data center, not on end-user devices. This minimizes risks associated with device theft, unauthorized access, and data leakage. |
| Remote and Flexible Work | Users can securely access their virtual desktops from any location and device, enabling remote work, hot-desking, and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) scenarios. |
| Consistent User Experience | Users receive the same desktop environment regardless of the physical device or location, improving productivity and reducing support requests. |
| Energy Efficiency & Sustainability | Thin clients use up to 80% less energy than standard desktops, reducing power costs and environmental impact—ideal for green IT initiatives. |
Together, these benefits make VDI thin clients a powerful solution for organizations aiming to improve efficiency, security, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving digital workplace.








浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4
Comments
No comments yet. Why don't you start the discussion?