How is running our software over the Internet different from what I do now?

Instead of running your software over your internal network, you access it over the Internet. The application still looks and feels the same as it always has. You just click on the icon on your desktop, open the application, and start working.
The differences are all behind the scenes. Your server that runs the applications, which used to be down the hall in your office, is now in a secure data center. The information that used to pass between your desktop and your server, across your network, now flows along a larger network-the Internet.
This frees you to work anywhere. All you need is a PC or laptop that connects to the Internet. You have access to all the same software, databases, and other information you would have if you were sitting at your own desk.
Won't working over the Internet be slow?
With Citrix, all processing occurs on a fast server. The only information that passes over the Internet is input from you (keystrokes and mouse clicks) and screen updates sent back to you from the server. This offers a number of advantages:
- Significantly less information than normal is transmitted over the Internet, so the software runs fast
- Since the only software that goes on the remote computer is the Citrix client software, you don't have to have a powerful new computer for your applications to work properly. And it makes no difference if you are using PCs or Macs.
- Hassles involved in upgrading software are virtually eliminated. Software is upgraded on the server and is then available to remote users automatically.
Do I need a browser, or a particular browser, to run software over the Internet?
You use a browser - any browser - to log on. You have an icon on your desktop for your application, just like you do now. When you click on it, the application opens and you can begin work.
What type of Internet connection do you recommend?
You will get the best results with a T-1 line, which is quite affordable now. At a minimum, we recommend that you use a DSL line. Of course, home users and staff members working outside the office can use regular dial-up access.
What applications other than my association management software can I use remotely?
With a hosted solution, you can use any applications that you choose to have hosted. With Citrix alone, you can use any applications that your organization chooses to make available for remote access.