VDI refers to the use of virtual machines to provide and manage virtual desktops. These desktop environments are hosted on a centralized server which directs them to end-users on request.
In VDI, a high-level supervisor program, called a hypervisor divides central servers into virtual machines that then act as the host for virtual desktops. Users can then access remotely from their devices. Access to these virtual desktops can be from any device or location since all processing is done on the host server. Users connect to their desktop through a software-based gateway that acts as a liaison between the user and the server.
There are two basic types of VDI; Persistent and Nonpersistent.
Using persistent VDI, a user sees the same desktop each time, and users can personalize their desktop according to their needs since changes are saved even after the connection is ended, Desktops in a persistent VDI environment act exactly like a personal physical desktop.
By contrast, nonpersistent VDI, users connect to generic desktops and changes are not saved. This is a less expensive and simpler solution since there is no need to save or maintain customized desktops between sessions. Nonpersistent VDI is often the solution for organizations with a lot of employees who perform a limited set of repetitive tasks such as in a call center environment and who don’t need a customized desktop.
VDI Benefits
- Remote access: In the current pandemic environment where working away from the workplace is now the new norm, it makes it easy for employees to access all their applications and files and work remotely from anywhere. VDI users can connect to their virtual desktop from any location and almost any device.
- Cost savings: With all processing performed on the server, the hardware requirements for end devices are much lower. Users can access their virtual desktops from older devices, or even tablets, reducing the need to purchase new and expensive hardware.
- Security: In a VDI environment, data is stored on the server and not on the local device. This allows the protection of data if a user’s device is lost or stolen.
- Centralized administration: VDI’s centralized format allows your IT professionals to easily patch, update, or reconfigure all the virtual desktops in your system.
Best Uses for VDI
- Remote work: With the uncertainty of returning to the traditional office environment due to the Covid-19 situation, many assume working remotely will be an ongoing factor in much of our employees’ lives. VDI makes virtual desktops are easy to update and deploy from your centralized location. During this time, VDI will continue to grow to help the transition to more remote workers.
- Flexibility for Workers: known in the industry as “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD), VDI is an ideal solution that allows or requires employees to use their own end-user devices. Since all processing is done on the centralized server, VDI allows the use of a wider range of devices, including laptops and tablets. It also offers better security, since data is stored on the server and is not retained on the employee’s device.
- Shift work or Task-Specific Work: Nonpersistent VDI is particularly well suited to call centers that have a large number of employees who use the same software to perform limited tasks. Again, no data is saved on the user’s local device enhancing security.
VDI, Desktop Virtualization, and Virtual Machines VM
Desktop virtualization is a generic term for all the technology that creates a barrier between a desktop from the hardware used to access it. VDI is a type of desktop virtualization, but desktop virtualization can also be implemented in different ways, such as remote desktop services where users connect to a shared desktop that runs on a remote server.
Desktop Virtualization provides companies with a streamlined approach to managing, delivering, and protecting desktops and apps. Virtual machines are what powers VDI. VMs are software “machines” created by partitioning a physical server into multiple virtual servers through the use of a high-level supervisor program called a hypervisor.
VDI Can Save Your Company Money
High-level programs such as ArcGIS (mapping) and AutoCAD can require high-end (expensive) workstations that can come with a big price tag. By allowing us to help you design and set up a VDI system, remote employees can experience the same level of performance and data security as if working on their high-end desktops in the office. Incorporating our VDI solution, you can consolidate your data into one system, also reducing security risk.
Let us help you incorporate VDI into your work plan.
Contact a 10X team member by calling 704-931-1056.