Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

Virtual desktop infrastructure, or VDI, deploys desktop environments through virtual machines. For example, a remote employee accesses their in-office desktop from a laptop at home. Or a field technician accesses their company’s database from a job site 20 miles away. VDI is ideal for companies that need:

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✔️ Affordable IT solutions
✔️ Better security
✔️ Centralized management
✔️ Remote access
✔️ Alternatives to expensive hardware

How Does VDI Work?

In short, VDI puts everything on a central server so you can access resources from anywhere. All you need is an approved endpoint (or device) and a network. Here’s how it works:

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Virtual machines live on a central server

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Those machines host virtual desktops

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Users access desktops remotely through an endpoint. Users also need a network .

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The central server handles the processing, instead of the endpoint device

There Are Two Types of VDI:

Persistent VDI

✔️  Users connect to the same virtual desktop
✔️  Users can personalize virtual desktops
✔️  VDI environments mimic having a personal desktop
✔️  More expensive than non-persistent VDI

Nonpersistent VDI

✔️  Users connect to generic virtual desktops
✔️  Users can’t personalize virtual desktops
✔️  Ideal for companies with lots of employees who perform a limited set of tasks
✔️  More affordable and simple compared to persistent VDI

Benefits of VDI

Companies that use virtual desktop infrastructure enjoy several benefits like:

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Affordable (Cost Savings)

Instead of processing on the device, VDI processes via the central server. This means you can use older or less powerful devices to accomplish the same tasks. And you don’t have to invest in new and expensive hardware.

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Enhanced Security

VDI stores data on the central server, not the device itself. Make sure you configure the VDI system so that it authenticates users. Also, ensure it keeps updated operating system images. This way if a device gets lost, stolen, or compromised, you can cut off connectivity.

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Remote Access

Anyone who uses VDI can connect to a virtual desktop from nearly any location or device. This makes it easy for employees to access everything they need to work. Plus, they can stay productive from wherever they are in the world.

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Centralized Management

Since every virtual desktop lives in the same place, it’s easier to make changes. This includes patches, updates, and configurations. Your IT team or managed service provider can quickly make changes on the fly as needed.

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Accessibility

VDI empowers employees to “bring your own device” (BYOD) to access virtual desktops. Some employees prefer to use desktops. Some like laptops. And others might prefer tablets. This makes working from home or in the field easier for everyone.

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Better Scalability

When you mix VDI and cloud computing, the sky’s the limit. This further reduces your need for expensive hardware. And you get to scale resources up and down as you see fit.

VDI Use Cases

Many different types of businesses rely on VDI for reliable desktop access like:

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Remote or hybrid employees
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Teachers
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Field technicians
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Task workers
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Medical professionals
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Independent contractors
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Let’s explore some use cases in detail.

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Call centers

  • Grant employees limited access to info and tools

  • There’s no need for customizable desktops

  • All virtual desktops can be patched or upgraded quickly

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Remote work

  • Employees can access company resources from any location

  • “Bring your own device” (work from any device, including tablets)

  • Everyone has access to the same network and resources at all times

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Third-party access

  • Work with independent contractors or business partners

  • Grant third-parties access without investing in company-owned hardware

  • Control access to company resources

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Security compliance

  • Heavily regulatd industries (like health and medical servicese)

  • Prevent improper storage of confidential information

  • The central server stores data, not each individual device

How to implement VDI

When you plan for VDI deployment, work closely with a virtualization provider. They can help you implement a system that fits your company’s needs and walk you through each step.

1

Prepare your network

VDI is closely linked with network performance. This means you have to know peak usage times. And you have to be able to predict spikes in demand. Otherwise, you risk insufficient network capacity.

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Understand end-user needs

Talk with your employees about what they need to be productive. For example, some teams require personalized desktops — others don’t. If you use lots of graphics applications, you may need a stronger infrastructure. Compare this to teams that only use lightweight web-based apps.

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Run a pilot test

Work with a virtualization provider to test out whether VDI is right for your business and your team. This will show you whether it’s the best choice and whether your resources can support a VDI system.

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