A thin client is designed to be small so that the much of data processing takes place on the server.

This term often refers to software. However, it is also increasingly used for computers e.g.
network computers and Net PCs. A thin network refers to a network computer which does not
have a hard drive. It acts as a simple terminal to the server. It needs constant communication with
the server.
Thin clients provide a desktop experience in work leaning towards tasks in which the end user
has regular number of tasks which the system works on. Thin clients are found in schools, call
centers, medical centers.
Advantages of Thin clients
They are easy to install and use. They do not require installation of additional software.
The system is portable in that applications are accessible by any workstation since they are on
the server.
There is the opportunity to use older outdated PCs as clients.
The systems ensures reduced threats on security.
Disadvantages
The systems need to validate with the server after data has been captured. This means that if the
server breaks down or slows down, the process of collection of data is halted.
The server specifies the clients to run.

Requires more downtime.

Thin clients
In comparison, a thick client performs the larger tasks of the processing in client/server
applications. These systems needs no continuous server communications. This is because it
mainly communicates archival storage information to the server. It therefore provides
functionalities independent of the server.
Advantages
Only needs intermittent communication with server. This reduces time wastage. Results come in
fast.
Immediate validation of data. The client verifies the data.

It can store files and information. Applications can also be stored.

It has reduced server demands. The client hence can save more on maintenance and other related
costs.
Disadvantages
They are more expensive to install and use.
Data is verified by the client and not the server. Correctness may therefore be an issue here.
It provides more efficient uptime

It requires greater investment in terms of resources but less servers.

It has more security threats.