Definition

X terminal

An X terminal is typically a diskless computer especially designed to provide a low-cost user interface for applications that run in a network X server as part of a distributed X Window System. Typically, X terminals are connected to a server running a UNIX-based operating system on a mainframe, minicomputer, or workstation.

X terminals (and the X Window System) appear to have been the forerunner for what is now generally called "network computers" or thin clients. The X Window System and X terminals continue to offer an alternative to Microsoft's Terminal Server product and their NetPCs.

Related glossary terms: system administrator (sysadmin), ring, Internet, keystone jack, corporate area network (CAN), port, home server, LANDesk Client Manager (LDCM), HomeRF (home radio frequency), local access and transport area (LATA)

This was last updated in September 2005

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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