Desktop virtualization is a technology that can help organizations save time and money while improving security and end-user productivity. There are different types of virtualization, so you need to know which suits your organization. This article will discuss the different types of desktop virtualization and how they can benefit your business.
What is Desktop Virtualization?
Desktop virtualization is the concept of running a desktop environment, complete with all of its associated applications and data, on a remote server. The user interacts with the desktop environment as if it were running locally on their computer, but in reality, all the processing is being done remotely.
There are many benefits to using desktop virtualization, including improved security and reduced hardware costs. When used in conjunction with other technologies, such as application virtualization and user environment management, desktop virtualization can provide a highly flexible and scalable solution for businesses of all sizes.
The Benefits of Desktop Virtualization
There are many benefits to using desktop virtualization, including:
- Improved Security: By keeping all of the data and applications on a remote server, desktop virtualization can help to improve security. The data is less likely to be compromised if it is not stored locally on each user’s computer.
- Reduced Hardware Costs: Desktop virtualization can help reduce hardware costs by allowing multiple users to share a single physical machine.
- Improved User Experience: Desktop virtualization can improve the user experience by providing a consistent user environment, regardless of their device.
- Increased Flexibility and Scalability: Desktop virtualization is a highly flexible and scalable solution that can easily adapt to changing business needs.
Types of Desktop Virtualization
There are two main types of desktop virtualization: remote desktop services (RDS) and virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI).
Remote Desktop Services
Remote desktop services (RDS) is a type of desktop virtualization that allows users to access a remote desktop session hosted on a server. RDS is typically used when users need to access their applications and data from multiple locations.
When using RDS, there are a few factors to keep in mind, including:
- Bandwidth: The amount of bandwidth required will depend on the number of users and the type of applications being used.
- User Experience: RDS can provide a good user experience if the application is designed for remote access and if the network connection is fast and reliable.
Essential Features to Consider When Using Remote Desktop Services
- Multi-User Support: RDS can support multiple users accessing the same desktop session. This is useful for businesses with numerous employees who need to access the same data and applications.
- Load Balancing: Load balancing is a critical feature of RDS. It ensures that each user has an equal share of resources, such as CPU and memory.
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is a type of desktop virtualization that allows users to have their virtual machine (VM). VDI is typically used when users require a high level of security or when businesses must provide a consistent user experience across multiple devices.
When using VDI, there are a few factors to keep in mind, including:
- Storage Requirements: VDI requires more storage than RDS because each user has a virtual desktop instance.
- User Experience: VDI can provide a good user experience if the application is designed for remote access and if the network connection is fast and reliable.
- Cost: VDI can be more expensive than RDS because it requires more hardware and software resources.
Essential Features to Consider When Using Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
- Security: VDI can provide a high level of security as each user has an isolated environment.
- User Experience: VDI can provide a good user experience if the application is designed for remote access and if the network connection is fast and reliable.
How to Get Started With Desktop Virtualization in Your Organization?
If you’re considering using desktop virtualization in your organization, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Determine the Right Virtualization for Your Organization
First, you need to assess your needs and determine which type of desktop virtualization is right for your organization. If you have employees who need to access their applications and data from multiple locations, RDS may be a good option.
If you require a high level of security or need to provide a consistent user experience across multiple devices, VDI may be a better option.
Evaluate Your Hardware and Software Requirements
Second, you need to evaluate your hardware and software requirements. Desktop virtualization can be resource-intensive, so you must ensure that your servers are powerful enough to support the number of users and the type of applications used.
Implementation of Desktop Virtualization in Your Organization
Third, you must determine how to implement desktop virtualization in your organization. There are a few different options, including on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid solutions.
- On-Premises: An on-premises solution is where the desktop virtualization infrastructure is located within your organization’s network.
- Cloud-Based: A cloud-based desktop virtualization solution is where a service provider’s desktop virtualization infrastructure is hosted off-site.
- Hybrid: A hybrid solution is a combination of on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure.
Cost of Implementing Desktop Virtualization
Finally, it would be best to consider the costs of implementing desktop virtualization. Upfront costs are associated with purchasing the necessary hardware and software and ongoing maintenance and support costs.
How to Search for the Right Type of Desktop Virtualization?
If you’re not sure which type of desktop virtualization is right for your organization, there are a few things you can do to help you make a decision.
- First, you can consult an IT expert to assess your needs and recommend the best solution for your organization.
- Second, you can read online reviews of different types of desktop virtualization solutions to see what others say about their experiences.
- Third, you can attend trade shows or webinars focusing on desktop virtualization to learn more about the latest products and trends.
Conclusion
Desktop virtualization can help organizations save time and money while improving security and end-user productivity. There are a few different types of desktop virtualization, including remote desktop services (RDS), virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), and hybrid solutions.
Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so assessing your needs is vital before deciding which one is right for your organization. Once you’ve decided on a solution, you must consider implementation costs and ongoing maintenance.