The latest version of Citrix Presentation Server will be released today, adding Windows application streaming capabilities, health and performance monitoring, and enhancements that minimise data transmitted by 2D graphics apps.

Depending on available bandwidth or user preference, Presentation Server 4.5 can either stream applications to the user's client device or cache them so they can be used offline.

Failures in application delivery can potentially be rectified with the aid of new continuous server health check, automated system reboot and administrator alert features, according to Citrix. IT departments and users can also monitor performance to find out why an application is running slowly.

"It's information only – not a problem fix," said Fraser Kyne, business development manager for Citrix UK. "It takes away the need for you to lick your finger and stick it in the air [to discover problems]."

Many firms find that running virtualised applications on thin clients or laptops is a low-cost alternative to installing them on every user's desktop PC. This approach can also provide centralised control and help IT departments keep close track of licence usage.

"The issue that firms have is that they do not necessarily know how many users are running applications such as Office 2007," Kyne said. "A centralised management system can [tell you] exactly how many licences users have and how many are using them."