Citrix XenApp

Citrix XenApp is the new name for presentation server and just like it's predecessor, it can deliver seamless 'thin client' type application access aswell as streamed application access known as 'application virtualization'. Both approaches ensure that applications themselves do not have to be installed on the user's device and this can improve application and data security.

Applications are managed centrally in a datacentre and they can then be delivered to users on-demand using any compatible device. User's simply click the application icon on their desktop (or via a web interface) and the application starts up, appearing to the user as running on their device. This seamless approach allows the ability to deliver multiple applications quickly without having to do any client side configuration other than the initial installation of client side software agent.

Previously applications delivered with older versions of presentation server and also with metaframe required the user to have a network connection available to the servers hosting the applications. With application virtualization technology, users don't necessarily need to be connected to the application servers and can work in an offline mode. This allows for minimal disruption to users when their maybe networking problems due to outage or over utilization.

When it comes to application virtualization and thin client technologies, organizations need to seriously consider XenApp.

Citrix Client

Over the years the Citrix Client software has improved dramatically with various clients for many different operating systems. It was during my days with Citrix Metaframe where I first used the non windows based clients.

Citrix Printing

Citrix Printing is an area which requires specific attention during testing.

Citrix MetaFrame

Citrix MetaFrame was introduced as version 1.8, later becoming XP and then Presentation Server. The name MetaFrame isn't used anymore, just as Presentation Server.

Citrix Load evaluators

Citrix load evaluators are a critical area where Citrix stress testing can be an enormous benefit.