Cloud Computing with Pano Virtual Desktop

I found this little device after looking for a 'Zero Client' PC.

Not only has this little device no CPU, no memory, no operating system, no drivers, no software and no moving parts it's footprint is less than a tea coaster.

Pano connects keyboard, mouse, display, audio and USB peripherals over an existing IP network to an instance of Windows XP or Vista running on a virtualised server. Pano is power friendly, consuming only 3% of the energy consumed by a traditional desktop computer. For those organisations considering reducing their carbon footprint and driving a clear desk policy, this is the device of choice.

For the Enterprise user it is clear that in a virtual world, pano alongside Microsofts, Application & Server Virtualisation makes for a very strong solution offering. To deploy a Pano device, simply connect it to peripherals, network and power. There is no configuration to perform, no firmware to update, and no software to download. As soon as a Pano is connected to a network, a logon screen appears. Users enter their Windows credentials and are automatically connected to their virtual machines. From there on, it's the same Windows experience.

From a security point, the Pano is secure because it does not run an operating system or any other software. Because there is nothing in a Pano that can be infected by a virus or have malicious code installed, it doesn't need to be scanned for vulnerabilities or exploits.

Even when a peripheral such as a USB thumb drive is connected, Pano remains secure. Peripherals work only when the user is authorised via policies enforced by the Pano Management Server. If the user isn't authorised, Windows doesn't even see the peripheral that is connected to the Pano. If a user is authorised, the peripheral is connected directly to Windows. Pano enforces fine-grained access policies based on Active Directory user group membership, USB device class, and operation. As an example, a user may be authorised to read from a CD, but not write to it. This policy allows users to copy files or load software onto their virtual desktop, but prevents data from leaking out. Even when users are authorised, Pano can record USB operations so that the business can keep track of all its information assets. This is a great move for those organisations considering 'Rights Management'.

I believe this is one product worth watching