Significantly decreases maintenance. Thin Client networks reduce maintenance costs due to both the reliability of GNU/Linux, and that only the server requires maintenance and updating. Computer technicians can typically support 5-times as many GNU/Linux machines as Windows® machines (or more) because GNU/Linux is relatively trouble-free. In addition, A new program or update for all client PCs need only be installed once on the server. Also, should a client workstation fail, another thin client can immediately be plugged into the system in its place--without the tedious processes of reinstalling software and restoring data.

Minimizes threat of viruses or spyware. GNU/Linux has been built from the ground up with security in mind, and like the Apple Macintosh (based on BSD and very similar to GNU/Linux); it is significantly more protected from viruses and spyware that typically plague personal computers.

Simplifies computer infrastructure. Because all work is actually done on the server, a user can log in at any machine, having access to their saved work and preferences whether they are on a computer in their classroom or one in the library, or anywhere else in the school that the thin-client network is set up. Thin-client GNU/Linux can even be extended to allow students and teachers to log in from outside of the school.

Requires zero software licensing or upgrade fees. Since open source software is not licensed in the traditional sense of the word, you are free to copy, alter, and redistribute your software as you see fit within your organization. In addition. there is an enormous variety of open source software programs available for free.