Desktop Virtualization (VDI)

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Desktop virtualization is a server-centric computing model that borrows from the traditional thin-client model but is designed to give administrators and end users the best of both worlds: the ability to host and centrally manage desktop virtual machines in the data center while giving end users a full PC desktop experience without limitations[1].

The user experience is intended to be identical to that of a standard PC, but from a thin client device or similar from the same office or remotely.

Many commercial solutions also add the ability to switch some incoming client sessions (using connection broker software) towards traditional shared desktop systems such as Microsoft's Terminal Services or Citrix's Presentation Server, blade servers or even to individual unused physical desktop computers.

1 Rationale
2 Advantages
3 Products
4 See also
5 External links

[edit] Rationale

Installing and maintaining separate PC workstations is complex, and traditionally users have almost unlimited ability to install or remove software. Corporate IT departments, and users have therefore often used Microsoft's Terminal Services or Citrix's Presentation Server to provide a stable, "locked down" desktop environment out to the user, who could be either using a regular desktop PC, or a small, quiet and robust thin client.

Desktop virtualization provides many of the advantages, but gives users much more flexibility. Each can install and configure their own applications.

Users also gain the ability to access their normal desktop from other locations.

[edit] Advantages

Instant provisioning of new desktops
Near-zero downtime in the event of hardware failures
Significant reduction in the cost of new application deployment
Robust desktop image management capabilities
Normal 2-3 year PC refresh cycle extended to 5-6 years or more
Existing desktop-like performance including multiple monitors, bi-directional audio/video, streaming video, USB support etc.
Ability to access the users' enterprise desktop environment from any PC, (including the employee's home PC)
Desktop computing power on demand
Multiple desktops on demand
Self provisioning of desktops (controlled by policies)
Zero downtime in the event of client failure