The first and second waves of Citrix innovation, in the mid- and late-1990s, enabled the virtualization of the Windows desktop, which in turn made thin-client and server-based computing possible. With these advances, applications could now run on a centralized presentation server, rather than on a PC, and be “presented" to that PC or any other device, in virtualized form, so that the user would use and experience the applications just as though they were in fact running locally.

The third and ongoing wave of Citrix innovation is focused on providing a comprehensive access platform that connects devices, networks and applications into a system that makes on-demand access a reality. Today:

• We offer access solutions via software, online services, and appliances to tailor the specific solution to the particular customer need.
• We support the widest range of customers, from individual professionals, to small and mid-sized businesses, to small, medium, and large enterprises.
• We make information universally accessible, with the appropriate access controls, to employees, partners, customers, and suppliers whether they are on-site, remote, or mobile.
• We support virtually any type of access device from Windows PCs to Macs to UNIX workstations to Linux clients, from Windows-based Terminals to Internet terminals, from Windows-based PDAs to Symbian-powered mobile phones.
• We provide access solutions that work across a wide range of networks, including the Internet, intranets, extranets, wide area networks, local area networks, wireless networks, satellite systems, and all firewalls.
• We provide access to virtually any custom or commercially packaged Windows, UNIX, Java, Web, or browser-based application.
• We deliver access from anywhere to information wherever it lives, whether on centralized servers, personal computers, or on Web-based systems.
• We enable access to information in whatever form it takes, whether data, voice, or people.

Designed as an extensible access platform for large enterprises and packaged as a turnkey solution for small businesses, the Citrix access platform gives organizations of all sizes increased productivity, agility and competitive advantage.