Desktop virtualization uses the technology of virtualization to separate the environment of desktop from a physical computer and stores it in a remote server for ease of access from anywhere.
Users need rely on a same physical machine whenever they need to operate the virtualized desktop. The virtualized desktop can be accessed from any place and from any device that has internet connectivity such as laptop, smart phones, or tablets.
Understanding desktop virtualization
In term of the overall work experience one will not feel any difference while using a virtualized desktop. In reality the users is accessing a window that is backed by an isolated environment in a centralized server positioned at remote data center.
The major advantage of using a virtualized desktop over a traditional desktop on a physical workstation is availability of ample storage space, huge capacity for processing data, seamless access to centralized applications, and software processing.
Concept of desktop virtualization can be implemented in different ways as mentioned below:
- Hosted Virtual Desktop (HVD)
- Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
- Session Based Computing (SBC)
It is recommended by industry stalwarts that users should be able to assess their applications before choosing opting for any one of these Virtual Desktops models to explore optimum benefits offered by these.
The most popular example of virtualized desktop application is Microsoft Office 365. Considering the growing trends of BYOD in modern offices and need to work from anywhere in different situations is boosting use of Virtual Desktop applications.
Advantages of desktop virtualization
Although desktop virtualization has an immense potential to facilitate businesses and entrepreneurs, the adoption of the same has been relatively slower than one would expect. However, desktop virtualization is being boosted by cloud based solutions to boost flexibility and mobility.
One of the most vital attributes of desktop virtualization is the reduced cost of operation. It offers enhanced flexibility for managing equipments and reduces investment for purchasing physical desktops, power and also reduces maintenance to enhance life span of equipment.
There are many more benefits of desktop virtualization than these obvious ones. The more mature advantages enable organizations to configure workgroups or the entire gamut of departments in a jiffy. It also facilitates software licensing, ease of application management, network management, and so forth.
The principal reason for slower adoption of virtualized desktops can be attributed to high level of investments. In spite of the considerable cost benefits including reduction of TCO, many organizations are moving slowly towards opting for desktop virtualization solutions.
One of the most important objectives of adopting a virtualized environment is data security with seamless integrity. Desktop virtualization enhances data security as well as application safety by ensuring that the entire data is stored in a centralized resource. This enables organizations to impart greater security and maintain enhanced integrity of both traditional as well as virtualized applications in their business environments.
How to implement desktop virtualization
You need to carry out an in-depth analysis of each and every element of your business process before selecting the right type of desktop virtualization application. The assay must cover financial, technical, functional, and HR aspects of all business processes that need to be supported with desktop virtualization solutions. There is a word of caution to resist the temptation of getting carried away by new trends in cloud technology.
By thoroughly analyzing your business elements you would be in a better position to understand compatibility of desktop virtualization with different elements of the business. There is need to find right solution that optimally caters to your individual requirements. This approach will make sure that you will be able achieve long term cost efficiency of desktop virtualization.
Opting for software applications by focusing only on the economical benefits or to opt for new technologies may not be a prudent approach. There has to be an in-depth understanding and evaluation of needs before moving forward to adopt virtualization solutions. This may expose your business to complications in the longer run.
Desktop virtualization is a highly technical process. You must have the support of technical staff to address technical issues. You should also appraise the solution providers in terms of their ability to offer technical support and to enable smooth implementation of virtualization.
Evaluation of needs and costs
Careful and comprehensive analysis of each and every model of desktop virtualization needs to be performed. These models should be compared with traditional desktop capabilities to understand possible advantages over legacy systems. You should also understand probable costs such as indirect costs as well as direct costs that are going to be incurred in the process of virtualization.
Appraising the solution providers regarding your existing and future business requirements is strongly recommended in order to design a custom desktop virtualization solution. Try to include all aspects of your business such as geographical flexibility, security, tech support, hardware, software, networking infrastructure, and storage to name a few. Management of a virtual desktop application must be handled by skilled workforce in order to get maximum advantage from this wonderful resource.
Virtual desktop enable instant provisioning of new desktops by facilitating mitigation of desktop maintenance and supportive tasks. It is estimated that more than 60 per cent of total cost of a physical computer is required for management and maintenance of hardware as well as software. In addition to this organizations are also able to obviate IT manpower expenses.
In conclusion
Virtual desktop solutions help organizations obviate the need to update software, add security patches, and install anti malware for management of physical machines. In terms of security, virtual desktops do not suffer from possibility of data loss due to human error or attempts to tamper with vital data files.
In absence of internal expertise or other vital resources, organizations can procure virtual desktops from hosted service providers. Managed service providers offer these applications on per user basis and the plans are offered as monthly subscription to clients.
It is essential to understand individual needs including the existing processes and future expansion plans before finalizing the decision to opt for virtual desktop applications.
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