Citrix XenApp 5.0

Citrix XenApp (formerly known as Citrix Presentation Server and as Citrix MetaFrame) in conjunction with Microsoft Remote Desktop Services, allows applications to be hosted for remote access from client devices which have a Citrix agent installed.

The Citrix agent called the XenApp Plugin communicates with the Citrix XenApp host using Citrix's own proprietary presentation protocol, the Independent Computing Architecture (ICA) protocol.

XenApp Client Plugin

The XenApp Client Plugin uses the ICA protocol to relay key strokes and mouse movements from the user device to the Citrix XenApp host which in turn sends updates to the XenApp Plugin on the user device with details on which parts of the screen presented to the user to redraw. This process makes it appear as though the application is actually running on the user device when in fact it is actually running on the XenApp host, typically as server.

Applications are managed centrally in a data centre and they can then be delivered to users on-demand using any compatible device. User's simply click the application icon on their desktop (or via a web interface) and the application starts up, appearing to the user as running on their device.

This seamless approach allows the ability to deliver multiple applications quickly without having to do any client side configuration other than the initial installation of client side software agent.

Applications can also be presented in a full desktop from the Citrix XenApp host using remote display.

XenApp Fundamentals

Previously known as Citrix Access Essentials, Citrix XenApp Fundamentals provides application hosting capability for small and medium sized businesses. A total of 75 concurrent users can be supported using this edition of XenApp.

XenApp Advanced

Includes XenApp Fundamentals application hosting functionality with additional application based load management and SpeedScreen Progressive Display functionality.

XenApp Enterprise

Includes XenApp Advanced functionality with additional Application Virtualization capability, Application Performance Optimization, Application Compatibility Optimization and System Monitoring and Analysis.

XenApp Platinum

Includes XenApp Enterprise functionality with additional Application Performance Monitoring, Universal SSL VPN Smart with Access, Single Sign-On, Application Password Policy Control, Smart Auditor Session Recording, WAN Optimization and EasyCall Click-to-Call technology.

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