Desktop virtualization benefits, deployment methods, desktop virtualization software, and model selection are all summarised in this article.
What is desktop virtualization?
End customers may enjoy safe, high-quality desktop experiences on any device to desktop virtualization.
Desktop virtualization creates a software-based, or virtual, version of an end user’s desktop environment and operating system (OS), separating it from the end user’s client or computer hardware. The user can now view their desktop from any machine to this.
Desktop virtualization deployment models
Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI)
The operating system in the VDI deployment architecture runs on a virtual machine (VM) that is housed on a data centre server.Once the desktop image has been moved across the network to the end user’s device, they can interact with the desktop (as well as the underlying software and operating system) just like they would if it were local.
With Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), each user has a virtual machine (VM) with its own operating system. A software layer called a hypervisor manages the operating system’s resources, such as drivers, CPUs, and memory. It replicates their output, regulates resource distribution across several virtual machines, and allows them to share a server.
Delivering the Windows 10 desktop and operating system to end users’ devices is one of VDI’s main advantages. However, VDI necessitates a distinct virtual machine (VM) for every Windows 10 user because it only supports one user per Windows 10 instance.
Remote desktop services (RDS)
Through the Microsoft Windows Server operating system, users can remotely access desktops and Windows programs with RDS, also referred to as remote desktop session host (RDSH). Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol is used to serve desktop pictures and applications. This program, formerly known as Microsoft Terminal Server, hasn’t changed much since it was first released.
RDS and VDI are the same from the standpoint of the end user. However, RDS may be a more affordable desktop virtualization solution because a single instance of Windows Server can accommodate as many concurrent users as the server hardware can allow. Remember that Windows 10 apps may not work on Windows Server OS.
Desktop-as-a-service (DaaS)
In DaaS, a third-party supplier hosts virtual machines (VMs) on a cloud-based backend. DaaS typically deploys more quickly than many other desktop virtualization choices, is easily scalable, and can offer greater flexibility than on-premise solutions.
Many of the general advantages of cloud computing, such as support for varying workloads and storage demands, usage-based pricing, and the capacity to make apps and data accessible from nearly any internet-connected device, are shared by DaaS and other forms of cloud desktop virtualization. DaaS’s main flaw is that its features and configurations aren’t always as adaptable as they should be.
Selecting a model
Because it provides a virtualised version of a well-known computing model physical desktop computing VDI is a popular option. However, putting VDI into practice means you have to handle every part of the infrastructure yourself, including the hypervisor and related software, operating systems and apps, and hardware. If you have little knowledge or experience with VDI, this could be difficult. It may be more expensive up front to buy every piece of infrastructure.
If it supports the particular apps you need to run and your end users just require access to those apps not complete Windows desktops RDS/RDSH might be a good option. RDS systems are typically more affordable and scalable than complete VDI settings, and it provides a higher end-user density per server than VDI. To administer and manage RDS/RDSH technology, however, your employees do require the necessary training and expertise.
As IT teams become increasingly accustomed to sharing desktops and apps, DaaS is gradually becoming more and more common. In general, it is usually the most economical choice. It is also the simplest to administer, requiring minimal internal knowledge of VDI or infrastructure management. For many firms, it is a more cost-effective cost structure because it is easily expandable and uses operational expenses rather than capital expenditures.
Desktop virtualization Benefits
There are numerous possible benefits to virtualizing desktops, and these can change based on the deployment model you select.
Easier management
IT departments may find it simpler to handle staff computer requirements if desktop virtualization is implemented. Instead of keeping separate PCs that need to be patched, updated, or reconfigured anytime software changes are needed, your company can have a single virtual machine template for workers in related positions or responsibilities. Time and IT resources are saved as a result.
Cost savings
You can move a larger portion of your IT budget from capital to running expenses with many virtual desktop solutions. Desktop virtualization can prolong the life of older or less powerful end-user devices because compute-intensive programs run more efficiently when delivered through virtual machines (VMs) housed on a data centre server. Cloud-based DaaS, where you just pay a recurring usage-based fee, is a more alluring choice than on-premise virtual desktop solutions, which may involve a large initial investment in server hardware, hypervisor software, and other infrastructure.
Improved productivity
Employees can more easily access company computer resources to desktop virtualization. They can operate from any compatible device with an Internet connection, at any time and from any location.
Support for a wide range of gadget kinds
Numerous devices, including as laptops, desktop computers, thin clients, zero clients, tablets, and even some cell phones, can access virtual desktops remotely. No matter what operating system is installed on the end user’s device, virtual desktops can be used to provide workstation-like experiences and access to the entire desktop at any time and from any location.
Stronger security
Desktop virtualization involves abstracting and separating the desktop image from the hardware that accesses it. The virtual machine (VM) that delivers the desktop image can be a strictly regulated environment that is overseen by the company IT department.
Scalability and Agility
Deploying new virtual machines (VMs) or serving new apps when needed is quick and simple, and deleting them when no longer required is also simple.
Improved experiences for end users
Your end customers will benefit from a feature-rich experience when desktop virtualization is implemented, all without losing access to USB connections or printing capabilities they have grown to rely on.
Desktop virtualization Software
The virtualization technique you select will determine the software needed to deliver virtual desktops.
With VDI, the data centre hosts and manages the desktop operating system, which is often Microsoft Windows. Every end user has network access to a virtual machine (VM) to the host server’s running hypervisor software. To authenticate users, link them to a virtual machine, track activity levels, and reassign the virtual machine (VM) when the connection is broken, connection broker software is necessary. Connection brokers can be bought separately from the hypervisor or included in the package.
The Microsoft Windows Server operating system comes various utilities that can be used to implement RDS or RDSH.
The DaaS cloud-hosted service provider will take care of all software installation, configuration, and maintenance if you select a DaaS solution. Applications, operating systems, files, and user preferences are all included in this.
