Desktop Virtualization is a technology that empowers end-users with a virtual computing environment across devices (desktops, laptops, tablets, mobile phone, etc.) and locations thereby delivering a consistent user experience. It provides end users with the highest level of control and protection over their desktop access and usage, all while guaranteeing a cost-effective, highly accessible, and secure end-user desktop infrastructure. End user desktops are hosted on a centralized server.
Desktop virtualization is not a “one size fits all” solution; instead, it requires a customized approach to be applied. Organizations have the option to choose between in-house Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) or Desktop as a Service (DaaS). The different types of desktop virtualization are:
It provides individual sessions on servers or virtual machines that are shared by several users each.
It provides a virtual machine that several users can access and where sessions are neither reserved nor locked. The desktop allows users to access their data on different PCs, as systems refresh themselves once the user has logged off.
With the exception of reserved or closed user sessions, it provides a virtual machine similar to non-persistent VDI. This kind of virtual computer is made to meet the requirements of specific users.
It delivers shared desktops hosted on a server and connected to multiple thin clients. This type of virtualization enables multiple users to access the same desktop screen concurrently. It is known as Remote Hosted Desktop, or RDSH.
The necessary programs are published and hosted via virtualization in a data center. Further sent to end user’s devices as simple images to record keystrokes and mouse movements and return them to the program.
Desktop virtualization offers the following benefits to enterprises.
The virtualized desktops reduce the Capex involved in costly PC purchase and frequent IT refresh. The outsourced operations and pay-as-you-go model induce transparency on future requirements and helps manage Opex.
The central server storage of programs and data allows for access regardless of time, location, or device, giving end users flexible yet secure application availability.
Centralized storage of data and applications enable IT to manage desktops in an extremely efficient manner. The central storage of user profiles facilitates the easier distribution of operating system, application, and bug patches.
End-users only have access to applications and data specific to their roles as a result of role-based user profile creation and policy adherence. This also enables enterprises in providing contract employees and partners with secured access to relevant data and applications.
In the event of a disaster, virtual desktops can be provisioned from the centralized backup, thereby ensuring business continuity, application and bug fixes are simplified.