Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

LTSP VS DRBL

Compare LTSP VS DRBL and see what are their differences

This product has not been approved

LTSP logo LTSP

The Linux Terminal Server Project adds thin-client support to Linux servers.

DRBL logo DRBL

DRBL (Diskless Remote Boot in Linux) is a free software, open source solution to managing the...
  • LTSP Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-06
  • DRBL Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-09-02

LTSP features and specs

  • Centralized Management
    LTSP allows for centralized management of software and security updates, making it easier for administrators to maintain and control multiple workstations from a single server.
  • Cost Efficiency
    Reduces costs by extending the life of older hardware, since thin clients require less computing power and can be repurposed to function efficiently under LTSP.
  • Simplified Deployment
    Deployment of new workstations is simplified since the clients boot from the server, which reduces the complexity and time required for installation.
  • Reduced Local Storage Needs
    As applications and data are stored on the server, there is less need for local storage on the client machines.
  • Consistent Environment
    Users experience a consistent work environment, as client machines are exact replicas of each other, reducing variability and support issues.

Possible disadvantages of LTSP

  • Server Dependency
    LTSP clients are dependent on the server for booting and loading applications, which can be a single point of failure and a bottleneck if under-resourced.
  • Limited Offline Capability
    Thin clients cannot function without a network connection to the server, limiting their use in environments with unstable or unavailable network connections.
  • Performance Bottleneck
    The performance of the entire system is largely dependent on the server's resources and network infrastructure; high demand on the server can cause slowdowns.
  • Initial Setup Complexity
    Setting up an LTSP environment can be complex, requiring a thorough understanding of network infrastructure and Linux server management.
  • Scalability Issues
    As more thin clients are added, the server and network may need to be upgraded to handle the additional load, potentially increasing costs.

DRBL features and specs

  • Cost Efficiency
    DRBL is open-source and free, which makes it a cost-effective solution for organizations looking to deploy diskless remote boot technology without incurring large software expenses.
  • Centralized Management
    Allows for centralized management of client machines, as administrators can manage configurations, software deployments, and updates from a central server, reducing maintenance complexities.
  • Resource Sharing
    Facilitates efficient resource sharing by enabling multiple client machines to share a single server's storage and resources, optimizing usage and reducing hardware requirements.
  • Environment Customization
    Supports a wide range of Linux distributions, allowing administrators to customize and tailor the boot environment to specific needs and preferences of their organization.
  • Scalability
    DRBL can be scaled easily to support a large number of client machines, making it suitable for educational institutions, labs, and organizations with extensive computer networks.

Possible disadvantages of DRBL

  • Complex Setup
    The initial setup and configuration of DRBL can be complex and time-consuming, requiring a good understanding of networking and Linux systems, which can be challenging for less-experienced users.
  • Limited Windows Support
    Primarily designed for Linux systems, DRBL offers limited support for Windows environments, which can be a disadvantage for organizations relying heavily on Windows clients.
  • Network Dependency
    Since DRBL relies on network booting, any network issues can directly impact the availability and performance of client machines, requiring robust and reliable network infrastructure.
  • Server Load
    The server bears most of the processing load, which may require powerful hardware for the server to ensure smooth operation, especially in environments with a high number of clients.
  • Learning Curve
    There is a steep learning curve associated with understanding and effectively using DRBL, which may necessitate dedicated training or expertise to fully utilize its capabilities.

LTSP videos

Practical application of LTSP at my office

More videos:

  • Review - Ubuntu LTSP Diskless Terminal Server[EASY DEPLOYMENT]

DRBL videos

# Exclusive install , configuration and Test Clonezilla Server Edition (DRBL) On CentOS 7

More videos:

  • Review - Clonezilla SE - Installing DRBL in Ubuntu 12.04
  • Review - Clonning with drbl clonezilla 120 machines simultaneously

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to LTSP and DRBL)
Cloud Computing
65 65%
35% 35
Development
63 63%
37% 37
Tool
48 48%
52% 52
Monitoring Tools
79 79%
21% 21

User comments

Share your experience with using LTSP and DRBL. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, LTSP seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 11 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

LTSP mentions (11)

  • Software to allow Debian to server multiple remote desktops
    Perhaps something like the Linux Terminal Server Project? Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Setup freeIPA with NFS (or something similar)
    I think you might want something like LTSP: https://ltsp.org/. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Is there a way to set up a computer to delete all files after logging off?
    You can set up your machine to PXE boot and use something like LTSP to serve the OS. Configure without local storage, or optionally use the local storage only to cache the OS download from the server. Source: about 3 years ago
  • Seeking advice on thin/zero client deploment.
    Have you heard of https://ltsp.org/ ? Source: over 3 years ago
  • Best OS for Web Browsing and Printing Only
    Check out https://ltsp.org/ for a start and browse their forums to see what they suggest for an authenticated web proxy. Source: almost 4 years ago
View more

DRBL mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of DRBL yet. Tracking of DRBL recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing LTSP and DRBL, you can also consider the following products

Thinstation - Thinstation is a basic and small, yet very powerful, open source thin client operating system...

OneClickKick - OneClickKick is a web interface built from the ground up to help you install the desired operating system without hassle.

linuxmuster.net - linuxmuster.net is a comprehensive complete solution for the operation of school IT infrastructure.

Nakama - Nakama is an open-source distributed social and realtime server for games and apps.

JauntePE - JauntePE

Pluralinput - Use multiple mice and keyboards on the same PC, at the same time.