What Is Virtual Desktop Infrastructure and Its Benefits to Businesses

The market is highly competitive, and companies search for innovative solutions to various technical issues facing them.

VDI presents businesses with the opportunity to enhance their performance and improve their outcome since it makes computing easier, less expensive, and scalable. But what does VDI mean and what are its benefits to businesses?

What is VDI and how does it work?

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure or VDI refers to the use of virtualization of a desktop computer. In computing, a virtual desktop is a computer that one can access and operate over the internet, which means that the whole of the user’s desktop environment, such as the operating system, application, widgets, etc. are hosted on a server rather than a local PC.

VDI is a form of desktop virtualization where particular desktop images are delivered to endpoints over a network. The endpoint can be a traditional computer or a mobile device.

There are two VDI options: persistent and non-persistent VDI where each has benefits and drawbacks.

Persistent VDI: Convenient for end-users since they can save or store personalized data, files and it will still look the same every time a user will open their virtual machines (VM). However, one of the challenges in using persistent VDI is the need for sufficient storage and IT organizations have to allocate time in managing each virtual desktop.

Non-Persistent VDI: Also referred to as “Stateless VDI”, it’s set up as a generic desktop where any changes to settings, documents, or files won’t be saved, reverting it to the original set up once the user logs out. While there is an advantage especially to cybersecurity, it doesn’t allow users to personalize their desktop or install apps they need.

Traditional Desktop compared to Virtual Desktop Infrastructure

Benefits of Virtual Desktop Infrastructure

Flexibility

With VDI, businesses can improve their agility since it utilizes input-output data, Administrators can conduct installations, upgrades, or troubleshooting processes without any input from end-users so it won’t disrupt their productivity. For businesses that support BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), VDI would be advantageous.

Simplified IT Management

One key benefit of VDI is centralized management since everything can be done in one central location. For example, if a new application update comes out, it can be added to the central desktop instead of being installed on hundreds or thousands of endpoints.

This is beneficial for end-users since they don’t have to give up their devices if changes are needed to be installed. Work can be done remotely to fix issues from the central location, so their job won’t be interrupted.

Besides, set up is easy for new users since IT administrators can simply deploy the base image into their virtual machines. They can also add or remove users with a simple click saving valuable time.

Accessibility

Users can work from any location and any compatible device if remote access is supported by VDI. With its unique capabilities, they can also perform tasks more quickly since they will have access to software that is usually inaccessible to them.

Cost-Efficient

VDI saves costs when it comes to labor, energy, and time. Since it is centralized, businesses can cut down on the huge cost acquired by having multiple individual user licenses. VDI workstations have a longer lifespan with a 6-year life expectancy than traditional desktops with a 4-year lifespan, so it also saves costs on purchasing hardware.

Also, VDI workstations don’t consume much energy compared to traditional desktops, which generate higher heat and take a substantial amount of electricity to run the machine.

Security

For any business, data security is always a concern. Since VDI is equipped with security features and your data is located on one central point, the possibility of virus attacks, machine failure, or unauthorized access of critical data would be eliminated.

But don’t mistake VDI as a security solution and remember not to store sensitive information within the VDI. For businesses that support BYOD, resources can be easily infiltrated once hackers gain control of the end user's device, especially if the BYOD machines don’t have the basic security measures installed within.

Is VDI the Right Solution for Small Businesses?

Organizations aim to have an efficient technology solution that will improve their productivity. Each has different operational needs; however, one can take advantage of the centralized control VDI provides. Moreover, VDI might be the right choice if you are looking to save on administrative and support costs.