Desktop Virtualization (VDI)

Desktop virtualization or virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is a server-centric computing model that borrows from the traditional thin-client model but is designed to give system administrators and end-users the best of both worlds: the ability to host and centrally manage desktop virtual machines in the data center while giving end users a full PC desktop experience.

The user experience is intended to be identical to that of a standard PC, but from a thin client device or similar, from the same office or remotely.

Installing and maintaining separate PC workstations is complex, and traditionally users have almost unlimited ability to install or remove software. Corporate information technology departments, therefore provide a stable, "locked down" desktop environment out to the user, who could be either using a regular desktop PC, or a small, quiet and robust thin client.

Desktop virtualization provides many of the advantages of a terminal server, but (if so desired and configured by system administrators) can provide users much more flexibility. Each, for instance might be allowed to install and configure their own applications. Users also gain the ability to access their server-based virtual desktop from other locations.

Advantages