Understanding What is Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is a desktop virtualization technology that allows a desktop operating system, such as Microsoft Windows, to run and be managed in a data center. The virtual desktop image is delivered over a network to an endpoint device, which can be a traditional PC, thin client, or even a mobile device. VDI falls under the umbrella of end-user computing (EUC) and has become a widely adopted technology. It offers benefits such as centralized management, improved security, and scalability. Implementing VDI involves setting up a virtual desktop environment, configuring the necessary infrastructure components, and deploying the virtual machines.

• VDI is a desktop virtualization technology that allows desktop operating systems to run and be managed in a data center.
• VDI offers benefits such as centralized management, improved security, and scalability.
• Implementing VDI involves setting up a virtual desktop environment and deploying the necessary infrastructure components.

VDI Deployment Models

Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) can be deployed using different models, each offering unique benefits and considerations. Understanding these deployment models is crucial for organizations looking to implement VDI effectively.

1:1 Deployment Model

In the 1:1 deployment model, each user is assigned their own dedicated virtual desktop. This model provides a personalized desktop experience, allowing users to customize their settings, install applications, and save files. It is ideal for users who require a high level of customization or have specific needs that can only be met with a dedicated desktop environment.

However, the 1:1 deployment model can require significant resources, as each user requires their own virtual machine. This can impact scalability and increase infrastructure costs. Additionally, managing and maintaining individual desktops can be more complex compared to shared desktop environments.

1:Many Deployment Model

The 1:many deployment model, also known as session-based or shared desktops, allows multiple users to share a single virtual desktop. This model offers resource optimization, as the virtual desktops are shared among users, reducing the infrastructure requirements.

Shared desktops in the 1:many model are typically non-persistent, meaning that each user gets a fresh desktop session with every login. This simplifies management and reduces storage needs, as there is no need to store individual user profiles or maintain user-specific data on the virtual desktop.

However, the shared desktop experience may not provide the same level of customization as the 1:1 model. Users may have limited control over desktop settings, applications, and file storage. The performance of shared desktops can also be impacted by resource utilization and the number of concurrent users.

Choosing the Right Deployment Model

When deciding on the deployment model for VDI, organizations should consider their specific requirements, user needs, and infrastructure capabilities. The 1:1 model is well-suited for users who require a high degree of personalization, while the 1:many model offers cost savings and resource efficiency.

Ultimately, the choice between the two deployment models depends on factors such as budget, user profiles, IT resources, and performance requirements. Some organizations may even choose to deploy a combination of both models, leveraging the strengths of each for different user groups or scenarios.

VDI Architecture and Components

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) technology consists of several key components that work together to deliver a centralized desktop experience to end users. Understanding the architecture and components of VDI is crucial for implementing and managing this technology effectively.

Virtual Machines (VMs)

At the core of VDI architecture are the virtual machines (VMs) that host the desktop images. These VMs run on a hypervisor, which is responsible for managing the virtualization process. VMs can be provisioned with different operating systems, such as Windows or Linux, depending on the organization’s requirements.

Connection Broker

The connection broker is an essential component of VDI that acts as an intermediary between end users and the VMs. It facilitates the remote connection between the user’s device and the VM, ensuring that the desktop image is delivered securely and efficiently. The connection broker manages the allocation of VMs to users, handles user authentication, and provides a seamless user experience.

Storage Resources

VDI requires reliable and scalable storage resources to store the VMs, desktop images, and user data. The storage infrastructure must be capable of handling the I/O demands of multiple concurrent user sessions while providing optimal performance. Utilizing technologies such as solid-state drives (SSDs) or network-attached storage (NAS) can help meet these requirements.

Display Protocols

The display protocols used in VDI enable the transmission of session data between the client device and the VM. These protocols optimize data transfer, minimize latency, and ensure a high-definition user experience. Popular display protocols in the VDI space include Citrix’s Independent Computing Architecture (ICA), VMware’s Blast Extreme and PCoIP, and Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

Table:

Display Protocols in VDI

Display protocols are a critical component of Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) as they enable the transmission of session data between the client device and the virtual desktops. Different display protocols offer various features and optimizations to ensure a seamless user experience. Here are some popular display protocols used in VDI:

1. Citrix Independent Computing Architecture (ICA)

The Citrix Independent Computing Architecture (ICA) is a display protocol developed by Citrix and used in their VDI solutions. It is known for its efficient data transmission, low latency, and support for multimedia and graphics-intensive applications. ICA optimizes the use of bandwidth and ensures a high-definition user experience.

2. VMware Blast Extreme and PCoIP

VMware offers two display protocols for VDI: Blast Extreme and PCoIP (PC-over-IP). Blast Extreme is a next-generation protocol that provides high-performance streaming of virtual desktops, while PCoIP delivers a rich multimedia experience and supports high-quality graphics rendering. Both protocols prioritize network efficiency and user experience.

3. Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a widely used display protocol in VDI deployments. It enables users to access virtual desktops hosted on Windows-based servers. RDP provides secure remote connections, efficient data transmission, and support for various client devices.

These display protocols play a crucial role in ensuring a responsive and interactive user experience in VDI deployments. Organizations choosing a VDI solution should consider the performance, compatibility, and specific requirements of their end-users when selecting a display protocol.

VDI Implementation Requirements

Implementing Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) requires careful planning and consideration of several requirements. These include provisioning computing resources, choosing the right hypervisor and storage solutions, managing VDI images, and implementing security measures to protect data in transit. Additionally, organizations may explore converged infrastructure and hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) solutions to address scalability and cost challenges.

When implementing VDI, IT teams need to provision computing resources effectively. This can be done by setting up virtual machines (VMs) hosted on a hypervisor or utilizing physical desktops. The choice of hypervisor is crucial for optimal performance and scalability. Popular hypervisor options include VMware ESXi, Citrix Hypervisor, and Microsoft Hyper-V.

Storage is another important consideration when implementing VDI. Organizations need to ensure that they have sufficient storage capacity to accommodate the virtual desktop images, user data, and any additional applications. Storage technologies such as Solid-State Drives (SSDs) or Network Attached Storage (NAS) can enhance performance and provide scalable storage options.

VDI images need to be mastered and distributed efficiently. IT teams must determine the best approach for managing multiple images and ensuring their availability to end users. This may involve using layering technologies that allow for customization without duplicating the entire desktop image for each user.

Security is a critical aspect of VDI implementation. As data is transmitted between the client devices and the VMs, it is essential to protect it from unauthorized access. Implementing SSL/TLS encryption for user communications can help safeguard data in transit.

In summary, successful VDI implementation requires careful consideration of computing resources, hypervisor selection, storage solutions, image management, and security measures. By addressing these requirements, organizations can deploy a robust and efficient VDI infrastructure that meets their specific needs.

Persistent vs. Non-Persistent VDI Deployments

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) deployments offer organizations the flexibility to choose between two deployment models: persistent and non-persistent desktops. Each model has its own advantages and considerations, allowing organizations to tailor their VDI implementation to meet specific needs.

Persistent VDI

Persistent VDI assigns a dedicated virtual desktop to each user, providing a personalized experience similar to using a traditional physical desktop. With persistent VDI, users have the ability to customize their desktop environment, install software applications, and save files and settings. This model is ideal for users who require a high degree of customization or need to work with specialized software applications that cannot be easily virtualized. However, persistent VDI can also result in increased management overhead and storage requirements, as each virtual desktop image needs to be maintained and updated individually.

Non-Persistent VDI

Non-persistent VDI, on the other hand, utilizes shared desktop images that are spun up fresh for each user session. This model is more streamlined and easier to manage, as there is a single master image that is used for all users. With non-persistent VDI, any changes made during a user session are discarded once the session ends, ensuring a clean and consistent environment for each user. This approach is particularly suitable for environments where users have similar requirements and where personalization is not a critical factor. Non-persistent VDI can offer cost savings and simplified management, as updates and maintenance can be implemented at the master image level rather than on a per-user basis.

The choice between persistent and non-persistent VDI deployments depends on the organization’s requirements and use cases. Persistent VDI provides individualized experiences but requires more resources for maintenance and storage. Non-persistent VDI offers streamlined management and cost savings, but sacrifices personalization. By understanding the advantages and considerations of each model, organizations can make informed decisions when implementing VDI in their environments.

Table: Comparing Persistent and Non-Persistent VDI Deployments

Quote: “Choosing between persistent and non-persistent VDI deployments involves striking a balance between customization and streamlined management.” – VDI Expert

VDI Use Cases

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a versatile technology that offers numerous use cases for organizations seeking enhanced productivity, flexibility, and security. Let’s explore some of the key use cases where VDI can be implemented effectively:

Remote Work

With the rise of remote work, VDI provides a seamless solution for employees to access their desktop environments and applications from anywhere, using any device. Whether working from home, a coffee shop, or while traveling, users can connect to their virtual desktops and continue their work without interruption. VDI ensures that employees have a consistent and secure work environment, regardless of their location, minimizing compatibility issues and data security concerns.

Centralized Desktop Management

Organizations with a large number of desktops can benefit from centralized management provided by VDI. IT administrators can efficiently manage and update desktop images, applications, and security policies from a central location, eliminating the need to perform individual updates on every endpoint. This streamlines IT operations, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures consistent user experiences across the organization.

Enhanced Security

Security is a critical concern for organizations, and VDI offers enhanced data protection by keeping sensitive information within the data center. With VDI, data remains centralized and does not reside on local devices, reducing the risk of data loss or theft. Additionally, VDI enables IT teams to apply strict access controls, encryption, and other security measures to safeguard sensitive data. In the event of a device loss or theft, there is minimal risk of unauthorized access to corporate information.

Other use cases for VDI include industries that require specialized applications such as healthcare, finance, and engineering, where VDI can provide secure access to resource-intensive applications and ensure data confidentiality. VDI also benefits businesses with high employee turnover, as it enables quick provisioning and deprovisioning of desktops for new hires and departing employees.

By leveraging VDI for these use cases, organizations can unlock the benefits of increased productivity, simplified management, and improved data security, ultimately driving their success in today’s dynamic work environment.

Conclusion

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a game-changing technology that revolutionizes the way desktop operating systems are managed. With VDI, organizations can centralize their desktops in a data center, bringing forth a host of benefits and opportunities.

One of the key advantages of VDI is its ability to enhance security. By storing desktop images in a centralized data center, organizations can protect their valuable data from potential threats and breaches. Additionally, VDI offers scalability, allowing businesses to easily add or remove virtual desktops as their needs evolve.

VDI deployment models provide flexibility as well. Organizations can choose between personalized experiences for each user or resource optimization with shared desktops. This versatility ensures that businesses can tailor their VDI implementations to suit their specific requirements.

By embracing VDI technology, organizations can streamline their operations, enhance efficiency, and strengthen their overall IT infrastructure. Whether it’s improving security, simplifying desktop management, or enabling remote work, VDI offers a wealth of benefits for businesses of all sizes.

Matt Böhmichen

Matt is doing business in information technology since 1992. After discovering Linux he soon fell in live with Windows Operating System.