A remote workforce is a hot topic right now. But did you know there were remote computer set-ups too? Virtual desktops, also known as virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), are a technology that allows users to access a desktop environment remotely from any device.
VDI is becoming increasingly popular as more and more businesses adopt remote work policies. According to a report, the global VDI market is expected to grow from $4.14 billion in 2019 to $11.89 billion by 2024, at a CAGR of 22.9% during the forecast period.
In this article, we will explore what virtual desktops are, how they work, and how they can elevate small to midsize businesses.
What is a Virtual Desktop?
A virtual desktop is a virtualization of a physical desktop computer. In more specific terms, VMWare defines a virtual desktop as "preconfigured images of operating systems and applications in which the desktop environment is separated from the physical device used to access it." It allows users to access a desktop environment remotely from any device, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This is made possible by hosting the desktop environment on a central server, which can be accessed remotely via a secure connection.
Virtual desktops are not limited to a specific device or location, which means users can access their desktop environment from anywhere and on any device.
How Do Virtual Desktops Work?
Virtual desktops work by hosting the desktop environment on a central server and allowing users to access it remotely via a secure connection. The central server, also known as a virtual desktop host, runs a hypervisor, which is software that enables the creation of multiple virtual machines on a single physical machine.
When a user connects to a virtual desktop, the virtual desktop host sends a stream of images and audio to the user's device, allowing the user to interact with the virtual desktop as if it were a physical machine. The user's input is then sent back to the virtual desktop host, which processes the input and updates the virtual desktop accordingly.
How Do Virtual Desktops Compare to Regular Computers?
Virtual desktops and regular computers have some similarities, but they also have some key differences. Regular computers, also known as physical desktops, are physical machines that are assigned to a specific user. They are limited to a specific device and location, which means users can only access their desktop environment from the physical machine to which it is assigned.
On the other hand, virtual desktops are virtual machines that are hosted on a central server. They are not limited to a specific device or location, which means users can access their desktop environment from anywhere and on any device. This provides a level of flexibility and scalability that regular computers can't match.
Virtual Desktops and the Cloud
Virtual desktops are often paired with cloud technology, which allows for the virtual desktop host to be hosted in the cloud. This enables small businesses to access the benefits of virtual desktops without the need for expensive hardware or IT staff. Cloud-based virtual desktops can be easily scaled up or down as needed, and they provide a level of security that is not possible with regular computers.
How Can a Small Business Benefit from a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure?
Small to midsize businesses (SMBs) can benefit from virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) in a number of ways. One of the main benefits is increased flexibility and mobility for employees. With VDI, employees can access their desktop and applications from any device with an internet connection, allowing them to work remotely or from different locations. This can be particularly beneficial for SMBs with a mobile workforce or employees who need to work from home.
VDI can also help SMBs reduce costs associated with desktop management and maintenance. Instead of managing and maintaining individual desktops and laptops, VDI allows for centralized management of virtual desktops, which can be more efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, VDI can help SMBs to improve security by centralizing data and applications, making them more secure and easier to protect against data breaches and cyber attacks.
VDI can also help SMBs to improve collaboration and communication among employees. With VDI, employees can access the same applications and data, regardless of their location, making it easier for them to work together and share information.
How Anteris Can Help
In conclusion, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) can be a valuable tool for small to midsize businesses (SMBs) looking to increase flexibility, reduce costs, and improve security. With VDI, employees can access their desktop and applications from any device with an internet connection, allowing them to work remotely or from different locations. Additionally, VDI can help SMBs to centralize desktop management and maintenance, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
Furthermore, VDI can improve collaboration and communication among employees, allowing them to share information and work together more easily.
Anteris provides virtual desktop solutions for SMBs. We offer a wide range of VDI solutions that can help SMBs to achieve the benefits outlined in this article. Our solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of SMBs, and we provide expert support and guidance to ensure that the implementation process is as smooth as possible. With Anteris's virtual desktop solutions, SMBs can take advantage of the many benefits of VDI and elevate their business to new heights.
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