VenturCom claims BXP is capable of converting any Windows 2000, XP, or XP Embedded client into a secure, diskless node that makes full use of the client's local processing power and peripheral devices. The benefits are said to include: equipment and systems can operate without local persistent storage devices such as hard disk, RAM, bootable CD, or Flash storage; security is enhanced; system reliability is improved; workstations can be rapidly reconfigured and deployed; and hardware and management costs can be reduced.
BXP architecture
(Click above image to enlarge)There are two BXP software components -- BXP client, and BXP server. According to VenturCom, BXP client is compatible with any client that can run Windows 2000, XP, or XP Embedded and has a standard network interface driver, and BXP server can run on any Windows 2000, NT, or XP system. The resulting performance depends solely on network bandwidth, CPU speed, and server disk performance, the company says. Fast server storage and 100Meg/1Gig switched networks are not required, but are highly recommended.
VenturCom says Questeq appreciated BXP's "double-barrel" value in that it allows schools to cut costs by up to two thirds at the time PCs are purchased, yet it also dramatically reduces day-to-day support costs later because centralized IT management is highly efficient. One Pennsylvania school system claims to have saved $400,000 on a 1000-PC deployment, according to VenturCom. Questeq notes that several of its client school districts will deploy BXP in the Fall, with several more evaluating the solution in their schools during the summer recess.
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