Introduction
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is an evolving technology and many businesses are still familiarizing themselves with the concept of operating a hosted desktop. The process centralizes IT management as virtualization separates the servers into virtualized desktops, allowing users to access them remotely through practically any device. The role of management software is important here as it oversees virtual machines (VMs) that host the virtual desktops. This answers the question ‘what is VDI and how it works,’ which users often ask on the Internet.
The inconvenience IT departments face while setting up, installing, and configuring desktop PCs, along with managing their upgrade and maintenance needs, largely accounts for the move to virtualization. A report by Research and Markets reveals that the VDI market is expected to expand at a compound growth annual rate of 27% from 2017 to 2023.
In this post, we shall discuss a few facts about the platform which some companies may currently be unaware of.
Remote Access
Let’s begin by comparing a physical PC setup to a virtual desktop deployment for a better understanding of the two. What happens in a traditional PC environment is that standard desktops are connected to a single system, and users face limitations in terms of changing locations when required. Quite simply, they cannot access their desktops once they are away from the system, and this approach is a no-go in today’s world of digital workspace.
On the other hand, VDI remote access is one of the most distinctive features of the technology. Things work differently and in smarter, more efficient ways. Desktops are not restricted to the hardware, and users can view them from multiple devices such as Thin Clients, Zero Clients, laptops, tablets, and many more.
Quick Desktop Provisioning
With virtualization, the days of configuring each system manually are over, hence making desktop provisioning a fairly easy task. You do not require a dedicated IT department for this as the process is a mere matter of rolling out virtual desktops almost instantaneously. All you need to do is make sure that the settings are mirrored from a desktop image.
Personal Cloud Computer
Did you know that there is no need to take your laptop with you even if you leave your work premises? Here’s how things work in the context of virtualization. Simply turn off the power saving mode, leave your laptop running, and take a tablet or mobile phone with you instead. You can access your laptop and view a familiar desktop environment via a Remote Desktop connection protocol (RDP) across the Internet.
To connect remotely, note down your router’s public IP address and set up a port forward to enable incoming RDP connections for your notebook PC. You can even select predefined rules to simplify this process. Finally, download an RDP client for your mobile device and connect.
Side note: Microsoft developed RDP technology to offer users a graphical interface that connects to another computer across a network connection. You will need to use RDP client software and assign the second computer to the RDP server software.
PC Repurposing Software
Some are of the view that VDI is not the right fit for organizations, especially SMBs, with budget constraints. This is not quite the case because forward-thinking vendors like ClearCube have innovated technology that reuses hardware by transforming aging PCs and laptops into powerful Thin Client terminals. This is a simple and affordable way to extend the life of existing systems which, in turn, eliminates the need for a complete IT overhaul.
Our Cloud Desktop OS transforms old and under-performing hardware devices into centrally managed and secure Thin Clients. This platform offers the advantages of VDI client computing as soon as Thin Client terminals are connected to remote computers or back end systems. Large sectors like banking, finance, healthcare, government, and engineering with varying demands have made use of this solution to reap all the benefits of a full-fledged VDI deployment. These include, but are not limited to:
- Easy setup and centralized administration.
- VDI data security.
- Desktop future-proofing.
- One OS for all hardware.
- Multiple connection protocol support.
Not A One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Apart from the belief that VDI is costly and complex, some believe that it is a one-size-fits-all solution. It is important to realize that no business model is the same, even if you compare two companies that operate in the same industry. Keeping this in mind, virtualization involves multiple layers and components, so understanding how and when to use them is the key to an effective deployment.
Focus on a design that is as close as it gets to the real world and identify the right use cases. Ask yourself how technology can achieve practical goals for your business. Will it increase employee productivity, promote BYOD programs, or improve your overall competitiveness? Never go for a generic roll out because you will only set yourself up for unexpected pitfalls or failure by doing so.
Once you know exactly what you need, you will truly understand the benefits of VDI and how they apply to your specific scenario.
Get In Touch
Please contact our 24/7 online team for more information on everything VDI. We will be happy to assist you with anything you need.
