Welcome fellow IT trailblazer! As companies embrace flexible work models, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions have become essential for enabling secure, reliable access to apps and data from anywhere.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll demystify VDI technology, walk through deployment best practices, reveal crucial insider tips, and review the top vendors to help you make the smartest choice for your business.
VDI 101 – An Introduction
Before we dive deeper, let‘s quickly lay the foundation on what VDI is at its core.
VDI refers to the software, hardware, and management infrastructure used to host desktop operating system instances in virtual machines running on servers in a centralized data center location.
This means the entire desktop computing environment – including the OS, applications, data, settings, etc – exists in the data center rather than the actual endpoint device which serves as an access portal.
Users can remotely connect to their personalized virtual desktop from any device over the LAN or internet via special client software. VDI ensures they enjoy a consistent and flawless experience regardless of device.
Some key components that make up VDI solutions include:
- Hypervisors – Software like VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V which virtualizes servers and runs virtual machines
- Virtual Desktops – The isolated OS instances for each user hosted on the virtualization layer
- Connection Brokers – Handles user authentication and assignment of desktops
- Remote Access Client – The viewer software allowing devices to remotely connect
- Authentication Server – Manages access credentials and permissions
Now that we‘ve covered the essential building blocks, let‘s move on to understanding some critical concepts around VDI deployments. This will help set the right expectations as you evaluate options.
VDI Deployment Models and Considerations
There are a few key considerations when architecting your VDI deployment that impact functionality, performance and total cost of ownership. Being aware of these and aligning to your specific needs is vital for success.
On-Premise VDI vs Cloud VDI
The first major decision – should you host the infrastructure on-premise or utilize the cloud?
On-Premise VDI
This option requires procuring all hardware such as servers, storage and networking to deploy in your own data center. You manage the entire stack including hypervisor, OS images and lifecycle.
Offers greater control customization, ability to leverage existing investments. Hybrid cloud options also available to augment capacity
Cloud-Based VDI/DaaS
A hosted provider manages the infrastructure via public cloud like AWS or Azure. You subscribe to virtual desktops on a monthly basis.
Faster deployment, no large upfront costs, handled by experts. Less tailoring to unique needs
Persistent vs Non-Persistent Desktops
The next key consideration is whether desktop instances retain state or refresh back to a clean image on every reboot.
Persistent Desktops
All personalization, data modifications and installed apps are retained at shutdown persist across sessions. Offers full experience familiar with physical PCs.
Mimics traditional PCs better. More storage capacity needed.
Non-Persistent Desktops
The virtual desktop resets to default template state on logout discarding all user changes. Best for task-based use cases.
Simpler to manage, lower storage costs due to no personalization
Let‘s compare the two approaches:
[Table comparing persistent and non-persistent desktop attributes]Choosing correctly here depends on your specific applications and use cases – which often necessitates a mixed approach. Understanding requirements upfront helps greatly.
Now that you comprehend the basics, what benefits can VDI unlock for your business?
The Transformational Benefits of VDI
Virtual desktop infrastructure aims to recreate the traditional physical desktop experience in software – enhancing it with game-changing advantages:
1. Secure Access From Anywhere
VDI unchains workers from the desk by allowing secure remote desktop access from any internet connected device. This fuels unprecedented flexibility and productivity.
[Chart showing rising remote work trends]2. Simplified Centralized Management
With all applications and policies maintained in standardized master images rather than distributed endpoints, VDI brings massive IT efficiency gains.
Updating, patching and troubleshooting thousands of devices becomes a breeze!
3. Multi-Device User Experience Consistency
The singular centralized source ensures an identical user experience across smartphones, tablets, PCs, thin clients and older systems alike.
No more computing experience varying radically by device.
4. Enhanced Business Continuity
Since user compute sessions run in the data center rather than local devices, any outages or failures have no impact. Sessions start right back up on a alternate device immediately.
VDI delivers unprecedented resilience.
5. Improved Security Posture
With data centralized rather than scattered across vulnerable endpoints an Finally, securing everything from a single place is far easier, enabling tighter access controls, encryption etc.
VDI enables elevated security – which all businesses desperately need today.
6. Total Cost Savings
By reducing reliance on performing endpoint hardware and leveraging server-grade infrastructure, organizations can realize TCO savings long term.
Let‘s move onto to the good stuff – seeing VDI solutions in action from key industry players.
Evaluating Top 5 VDI Vendors
The virtualization arena has no shortage of diverse options varying from enterprise scale to budget picks. I‘ve handpicked 5 top contenders ideal for different business needs and IT maturity levels.
1. VMware Horizon – Most Versatile Enterprise VDI
When it comes to large enterprise VDI deployments, VMware Horizon leads the pack as the most versatile, scalable and full-featured solution available.
VMware has decades of domain expertise around data center virtualization – applying this to elevate VDI capabilities to new heights.
Horizon streamlines managing thousands of virtual desktops across private, public and hybrid cloud footprints thanks to intelligent automation. It bridges complex infrastructure combinations with ease through tight mutual integration.
IT can instantly deploy virtualized apps, desktops and remote desktop sessions from the unified Horizon control plane to empower any use case. Furthermore, robust access security and compliance capabilities enable next-gen zero trust architecture.
Highlights:
- Supports Windows, Linux, Physical PCs/Macs, ChromeOS
- Unified endpoint management
- Automated app and image delivery
- Horizon subscription includes support, patching and upgrades for perpetual license simplicity
- Tight security integration with Carbon Black and VMware NSX firewall
In short, VMware Horizon offers the ultimate versatility supporting firms from 500 to over 50,000 employees.
2. Microsoft Windows 365 – Top Cloud VDI for Microsoft Devotees
Windows 365 marks Microsoft‘s bold foray into cloud VDI aimed squarely at streamlining management for dedicated Microsoft app and OS users.
Rather than the usual locally hosted approach, Windows 365 exclusively exists in Azure public cloud allowing subscribers lightning fast provisioning.
The solution focuses specifically on Windows rather than attempting to also accomodate other platforms and use cases. This singular devotion allows Microsoft to refine the user experience to perfection – delivering silky smooth performance rivalling local PCs.
Windows 365 specializes in integratingMicrosoft ecosystem – ideal for organizations invested heavily.
Highlights:
- Streamlined migration from physical PCs to cloud
- Smooth integration with Microsoft Endpoint Manager
- Standardized pre-configured Windows 11 images
- Premium plan includes Microsoft 365 security and desktop analytics
- Cloud-first but hybrid options available
For Microsoft application reliant firms from 50 to 1000 employees, Windows 365 warrants strong consideration.
3. Amazon WorkSpaces – Effortless Economical VDI
Amazon WorkSpaces lowers barriers to cloud VDI adoption for companies lacking extensive virtualization skills. The fully integrated AWS solution offers bundled Windows or Linux images to deploy in just minutes.
The highly cost-effective pay-as-you-go approach based on hourly or monthly rates aligns perfectly to small/mid-size workload needs. Easy integration with rest of AWS ecosystem from S3 to Lambda further simplifies management overhead for max productivity.
While WorkSpaces trails VMware and Citrix on breadth of features, elasticity and savings outshine especially during initial phases.
Highlights:
- Streamlined launch and management from AWS console
- Windows Server and Linux image options
- Multiple pricing tiers based on vCPUs, storage and memory
- Integrates with AWS services like FSx, AppStream etc
- Encryption for data at rest and in transit
For lean organizations around 50-200 employees running light apps, WorkSpaces warrants strong evaluation.
4. Cisco VDI – Optimized for High-Performance Uses
While supporting conventional office apps, Cisco VDI solutions focus on high performance use cases such as:
- Engineering / Design Automation Apps
- Video Editing / Content Creation
- Software Development / DevOps
- Finance / EDA Apps
- Architecture / Construction Programs
- Healthcare Imaging Applications
Designed from the ground up to minimize latency while maximizing responsiveness, Cisco VDI delivers a user experience exceeding expectations.
Furthermore, NVIDIA vGPUs OR AMD multiuser GPUs allow crisis to satisfy demand for hardware-accelerated graphics capabilities – increasingly vital for emerging desktop apps.
Highlights:
- Solutions for cloud and on-premise deployment
- Cisco HyperFlex HX alternative to traditional VDI infrastructure
- Desktops hosted on bare metal Cisco HyperFlex nodes to enhance efficiency
- Validated designs incorporating partner technology – NVIDIA, AMD, Citrix etc
- Advanced analytics for simplified management and troubleshooting
For graphics/compute heavy industries with specialized apps, evaluate Cisco VDI purpose-built solutions.
5. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops – Feature-Packed Value
Citrix remains an mature, widely adopted player offering comprehensive capabilities rivaling VMware Horizon minus the significant price tag.
Unlike niche players, Citrix covers the full gamut supporting digital workspaces across VDI, cloud, hybrid infrastructure mixed with remote desktop services. Convenient standard subscription licensing inclusive of updates lowers acquisition barriers.
Generous enterprise capabilities even extend to smaller businesses scaling past 500 employees without needing to switch platforms. User experience enhancements like workspace environment management cement Citrix as ideal for mid-market needs.
Highlights:
- Unified management for on-premise and cloud
- Broad platform support – Windows, Mac, Linux, Web, Mobile
- Secure digital perimeter to verify user identity from anywhere
- Monitoring, automation and analytics powered by Citrix Cloud
- Available on flexible subscription tiers
Now you‘re equipped with expert insights on matched top providers – but what‘s ultimately the best choice?
Final Thoughts – Finding the Right Fit
With enhanced experience, flexibility and resilience benefits apparent, VDI adoption continues rapidly rising each year powering telework and mobility trends.
Yet the most suitable solution depends largely on your current stage, IT skills depth and application landscape. Steer clear of overinvesting prematurely or underprovisioning resources.
Startup / Small Business – Cloud VDI offerings like Amazon WorkSpaces balance affordability and ease for initial phases.
Mid-Market Company – Look to solutions like Citrix enabling unified workspace management across 500-5000 employees flexibly via hybrid/on-premise deployment.
Large Enterprise – Robust VDI platforms such as VMware Horizon specialized for complex needs of 5000+ workers across sites and infrastructure topologies.
While advancing your virtualization initiatives, remember to equally prioritize user enablement through tasks like:
- Proactive communication/training during rollout
- Soliciting feedback from pilot groups
- Defining ticketing and support processes
- Building self-help documentation
With a thoughtful technology choice and adoption game plan, transformative potential of VDI is well within reach. Feel free to drop any outstanding questions in the comments section below!
