Thin clients perform the same functions as standard Computers but lack hard disks, additional I/O interfaces, and other obtrusive features. Thin clients don't have any software loaded on them because they lack hard disks. Instead, they use a computer to execute applications and retrieve files. Thin clients, also known as "network computers" or "NCs," are therefore required to have a network link.

Thin clients can be a practical option for companies or groups that require a number of machines that all perform the same functions at a low expense. For instance, each pupil in a classroom could use a thin client computer to execute the same application from a server. There is no requirement for each NC to have a hard disk because the server distributes the software to all computers connected to the network. Thin clients also simplify network administration because software problems are handled solely on the server rather than on each individual system.