Thin client
With a thin client, applications are not actually executing on the local device. The applications are run on a remote server and the local thin client device is remoting into that server. A thin client workstation just needs a keyboard, mouse, monitor, power, and a network connection.
You don’t need to install a full blown operation system or local applications on a thin client.
Thin clients have few moving parts, are inexpensive, easy to replace, and requires minimal maintenance.
Thick client
A thick client is a tradition computer. It uses it own local resources to run a full blown operation system and applications and device drivers.
Thick clients require ongoing support with security patches, operating system updates, and application updates.
Account setup/settings
User accounts also must be maintained. These are the accounts that are used to login to the local workstation or used to login to the network to provide access. Usually in business environments there is a centralized account management database, like Microsoft Active Directory. You would add and edit users in this directory.
On a thin client, there are no local device permissions required. The device connects to a larger system that is across the network. The user will need access to that system.
For thick clients, the user needs an account to login to the computer, and the computer will also need to be added to the Microsoft domain.
