Virtual Desktop Infrastructure

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure works on the same basis as server virtualisation. Desktop systems are encapsulated in file format and hosted in shared workload groups on powerful physical servers, which typically reside in the datacentre. The main advantages of desktop virtualisation are security, mobility, and cost.

Using special connection broker technology, screen and keyboard activity is exchanged between client and server via the existing corporate network. The client can be a diskless workstation or a typical desktop PC or laptop.

Risk Management

By residing the virtual workstation within the datacentre its data can be protected in the same way traditional server based data is. This brings a level of risk management to desktop information not typically enjoyed in the traditional client-server model. If de-duplication technology were employed within the storage area network servicing the virtual desktop infrastructure then further efficiencies and cost savings are applied to a typically highly duplicated model.

Mobility & Productivity

Mobility is significant in a number of ways. For example, for development teams an identical system can be cloned so that test and development cycles can be conducted 24 hours a day by any individual from anywhere in the world. This accelerates development cycles and time to market, giving the business a competitive edge whilst maintaining consistency and security. The same theory can be applied to anyone requiring access from anywhere in the world, on the road, or from home – a model we exploit with our Virtual Workspace Recovery service.

Development teams will also typically have multiple physical desktops to cater for the needs of different projects. This need no longer be the case. One desktop can be operating multiple tasks in multiple virtual configurations by utilising the resources of the datacentre systems. This improves productivity, saves on power and capital expenditure, and reduces desktop footprint.

Move costs and inconvenience also become a thing of the past. A standard physical desktop can remain the property of the desk position not the user. The user’s unique requirements move with them virtually not physically. In very dynamic environments where team membership can change on a regular basis with projects, this becomes a significant benefit.

Software License Savings

Lastly - software licensing. Depending upon the techniques you employ, substantial savings can be made in the way your software licensing is managed. The “standard build” method whereby a suite of applications is installed on every desktop, and where many licenses are paid for but not actually used, need not be the case. Applications are delivered dynamically upon user request, minimising license costs.

We Do It

Union has virtualised thousands of desktops around the world using a range of different technologies and methods best suited to our customers’ unique needs. Without our experience in storage, server, and network infrastructure this would not be possible, and this is exactly the complete package you should be seeking when looking for help. Pick up the phone – we’d love to help.