Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology for creating a virtual workspace with the necessary set of software on a remote server. VDI technology allows users to connect to their workspace over the Internet while data is stored on a secure cloud server. When using a local desktop, the OS, applications, and data are stored on the device. With VDI, there is no information on the endpoint. That is the idea briefly. Let us look at the technology more closely.
VDI technology
Virtual desktops were used long before the coronavirus pandemic. However, the rapid spread of the virus, isolation and the need to continue working in new conditions made VDI technology popular and important. Virtual infrastructure allowed companies to quickly move employees to a remote work format while maintaining a familiar working environment.
With VDI, every employee's data is stored centrally – on a remote server. They can access it from a smartphone, laptop, or standard PC. In fact, it turns out that each person is provided with a personal virtual workspace, which he/she can connect to via the Internet from anywhere in the world.
The device that connects to the cloud desktop is called a thin client, although this is not quite true. A thin client is a specialized device designed for a specific task. It neither stores anything, performs calculations, nor works with graphics programs, but simply broadcasts an image from a server. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure allows users to work even on low-powered, outdated hardware, not just on thin clients.
It is beneficial for everyone. Employees can work remotely, and the information security department gets additional protection against leaks, as all confidential information is stored on a central server, and access to it is regulated by internal policies. Virtual remote desktops are easier to manage – using templates with a pre-installed software suite IT specialists can create or delete new desktops in minutes.
VDI benefits and features
Since virtual desktops are deployed on virtual machines, they can be disabled whenever they are not needed. This saves the company resources. But there are other benefits to this technology as well.
A familiar working environment. Users have the same desktop, OS, software, and applications. Employees do not need to retrain and switch to new software. Everything works as usual.
Security. A VPN connection, encryption, and other technologies provide a secure working environment. Human error is often the reason for information leaks. Virtualization reduces risks because all data is stored in the data center, rather than on the employee's computer. IT professionals can easily monitor what is happening on virtual machines and lock down the workplace if they see suspicious activity. Security policies and software whitelisting are just as easy to set up.
Since the company's data storage is located in the data center, problems with electricity and other disruptions will not affect the data security. HDD failure (a common cause of data loss) is also not an issue – data in the cloud is duplicated. Each virtual machine is isolated from the others.
Mobility. You can connect to VDI from any device. The only requirement is an Internet connection.
Centralized management. System administrators in many companies have to maintain a large fleet of office hardware and software. VDI allows for centralized configuration of virtual desktop parameters, software updates, and user activity control. Just a couple of technicians can easily manage an IT park of a thousand devices. It is possible to deploy new desktops and delete unnecessary ones in a few clicks. This is especially convenient in companies with branches.
Consistent performance. All cloud desktops have the same performance. If someone needs additional resources, you can easily add them in a few minutes from the control panel.
Cost savings. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure reduces hardware costs – it is maintained and upgraded less frequently. There is no need for an IT employee to be in person at each branch office as most tasks can be completed remotely. Consequently, fewer business trips are necessary and the process of digitalization of the company accelerates.
The most important condition for VDI is a good Internet connection (preferably two). It is worth discussing network security issues with the cloud provider.
Which businesses should consider VDI?
VDI is suitable when flexibility and availability are essential. It is not only about organizing the work of traveling employees but also about creating a remote office and providing uninterrupted access to corporate data.
Since VDI technology isolates users' desktops, it is worth implementing if confidentiality is important. For example, in the call center of a financial organization or services that work with sensitive data.
Setting up a remote office not only protects employees in case of disease outbreaks but also reduces the cost of equipping a workplace. In large companies, it costs a lot of money to maintain a workplace for one employee.
In the retail industry, updating trading software can be a time-consuming and challenging task. With VDI, you can quickly open a new point of sale or centrally update software in all stores at once.
Companies that work with complex software and rich-media applications will also appreciate the benefits of using VDI. There is no need to buy expensive equipment for rendering, designing, and graphics. You can use a cloud server by renting it for the required time.
For small companies that do not need to serve a numerous devices, and have no remote employees or branches, VDI is not a matter of high necessity. But in the long run, this technology can still come in handy.
