Watson Institute Deploys New Remote Access Solution

The Watson Institute, an educational organization serving children and youth with special needs, has implemented new remote access software to enable its staff to access their work computers from anywhere, anytime, using any device.

Watson Institute had been using remote access software from Citrix but found the solution too costly and complex for its needs. Since the institute's staff requires secure access to their hosted Windows desktops after hours or when they are off site, the organization decided to switch to Ericom PowerTerm WebConnect as its IT platform.

"We sought a simple, easy-to-deploy solution that would allow our training staff and consultants to easily connect to their published Windows 7 desktops from Androids, iPhones and iPads," said Ryan Young, information services manager for the Watson Institute, in a prepared statement. "PowerTerm WebConnect has allowed us to reach our goal of providing remote access that replicates the desktop experience as closely as possible for our staff."

Key features of PowerTerm WebConnect include:

  • Built-in acceleration;
  • High-performance native mobile and HTML5-based remote desktop protocol (RDP) clients;
  • Client support for iPads, iPhones, Android devices, and Chromebooks, as well as Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux computers;
  • Consistent look and feel on all supported device types;
  • Ericom SSL Secure Gateway; and
  • Support for existing SSL VPNs.

The Watson Institute operates five special needs schools in the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. The institute provides specialized educational programs for children aged 3 to 21 who have been diagnosed with autism, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, neurological impairments, and other developmental disabilities and emotional challenges.

Further information about Ericom PowerTerm WebConnect can be found at ericom.com.

About the Author

Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].

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