Desktop virtualization or desktop as a service is the future of workplaces. Not only is it becoming more popular in the home environment, but businesses and even governments are quickly catching on to its many benefits. Let’s explore some of those benefits and see why VDI is such an essential step for workplaces everywhere!
What Is Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)?
VDI, or virtual desktop infrastructure, is a technology that allows users to access a virtual desktop from any location. That can be done using various devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. VDI has many benefits over traditional desktop computing, including increased flexibility, security, and efficiency.
Why Is VDI the Future of Workplaces?
There are many reasons why VDI is the future of workplaces.
Flexibility
One of the most significant benefits of VDI is flexibility. With VDI, users can access their desktops from any location with an Internet connection. That means employees can work from home, on the road, or in another country without having to lug around a heavy laptop.
Additionally, VDI makes it easy to roll out new applications and updates since they can be deployed centrally.
Improved Security
Another advantage of VDI is improved security. Since data is stored remotely in a data center, it is much less likely to be compromised by malware or hacking attacks. Additionally, enterprises can implement strict security policies limiting user access to sensitive data. That is much easier to do with VDI than traditional desktop computing.
Improved Efficiency
Lastly, VDI can help organizations improve their efficiency. By centralizing data and applications in a data center, enterprises can reduce the time and resources spent on maintaining individual desktops. Additionally, updates can be rolled out quickly and efficiently to all users, ensuring that everyone is constantly working with the latest version of an application.
How to Get Started with VDI for Your Business or Workplace
If you’re thinking about implementing VDI in your workplace, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Type of VDI Solution You Need
The first decision to make is choosing the type of VDI solution for your organization. For example, you may want a hosted VDI solution that a third-party provider manages. Or, you may prefer an on-premises VDI solution that is managed internally.
There are a few different types of VDI solutions, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
- On-premises VDI: With on-premises VDI, all of the necessary hardware and software is stored and managed internally. This solution is typically more expensive than other options but offers greater control and flexibility.
- Hosted VDI: Hosted VDI solutions are provided by third-party providers. These providers manage the necessary hardware and software in their data centers. This solution is typically less expensive than on-premises VDI but offers less control.
- Cloud-based VDI: Cloud-based VDI solutions are similar to hosted VDI solutions, but the necessary hardware and software are stored in the cloud instead of a data center. This type of solution is often less expensive than both on-premises and hosted VDI, but it offers even less control.
Number of Users
Another essential factor to consider is how many users you have. The number of users will dictate the size and type of VDI solution you need. For example, if you have a small number of users, you may get away with a less expensive solution. However, you’ll need a more robust solution with many users.
There are a few different factors to consider when determining the number of users.
- Number of concurrent users: The first factor to consider is the number of concurrent users. That is the maximum number of users using the VDI solution simultaneously. For example, if you have 50 employees but only 10 will be using the VDI solution at any given time, you only need to support 10 concurrent users.
- Total number of users: The second factor to consider is the total number of users. That includes both concurrent and non-concurrent users. For example, if you have 50 employees and each employee uses the VDI solution for eight hours daily, you would need to support 400 users.
Storage Requirements
Another vital factor to consider has to do with storage requirements. VDI solutions require a lot of storage, so you must ensure you have enough space to store all the necessary data.
Additionally, it would be best to consider how fast your storage needs are. For example, if you’re using VDI for real-time applications, you’ll need speedier storage than if you’re using VDI for non-real-time applications.
There are a few different factors to consider when determining your storage requirements.
- Data volume: The first factor to consider is the amount of data you need to store. That includes both the operating system (OS) and any application or data that will be stored on the VDI.
- Speed: The second factor to consider is the speed of data transmission. That is important if you’re using VDI for real-time applications. For example, if you’re using VDI for a videoconferencing application, you’ll need faster storage systems than using VDI for email.
Budget
Of course, you’ll also need to consider your budget when selecting a VDI solution. There are a variety of solutions available at different price points. You’ll need to decide how much you will spend on a VDI solution.
Keep in mind that VDI can offer significant cost savings compared to traditional desktop computing, so it may be worth investing in a high-quality solution.
There are a few different factors to consider when determining your budget for a VDI solution.
- Hardware costs: The first factor to consider is hardware costs. You’ll need to purchase the necessary hardware for your VDI solution, which can be expensive.
- Software costs: The second factor to consider is software costs. You’ll need to purchase the necessary software for your VDI solution, which can also be expensive.
- Support costs: The third factor to consider is support costs. You’ll need to pay for technical support from your VDI provider, which can add up over time.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are various factors to consider when selecting a VDI solution. However, VDI is quickly becoming the future of workplaces. More businesses have realized the benefits of VDI, such as cost savings, easier manageability, and increased security. If you’re looking for a way to improve your workplace, VDI may be the right solution.
