Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• Can IT use VMware Horizon View without vCenter?

  Running VMware Horizon View without vCenter is possible but impractical. Understand why an organization would want to use this setup and what the implications are.  Continue Reading

• What features should IT look for in VDI monitoring tools?

  VDI monitoring tools can help IT get visibility into a complex environment. Here are five features every IT admin should look for in a VDI monitoring tool.  Continue Reading

• When should IT use thin clients for VDI?

  Thin clients are less expensive than PCs, but they also come with limitations. Find out if thin clients will work well within your organization.  Continue Reading

• What does IT need to know about VDI web browsers?

  End users can easily access their virtual desktops and applications through any supported HTML5 web browser. Learn about the pros and cons of using VDI and web browsers together.  Continue Reading

• What should IT consider when choosing VDI antivirus software?

  Virtual desktops are just as susceptible to cyberattacks as any physical desktop. Here's what IT administrators need to know about choosing the right VDI antivirus software.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of on-premises hosting for virtual desktops?

  IT shouldn't overlook the benefits of on-premises desktop hosting, such as more choices for virtualization software. Cloud-hosted desktops also fall short in areas such as infrastructure control.  Continue Reading

• How do DaaS providers deliver cloud desktops?

  Most DaaS providers offer either session- or client-based desktops. Services differ in the OSes that providers support and the configuration options at IT administrators' disposal.  Continue Reading

• Can hyper-converged infrastructure cut VDI costs?

  Hyper-converged systems may cost more upfront, but organizations must also calculate long-term costs to determine if HCI is a fit for their virtual desktop infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• GPU use gains traction in VDI deployments

  The ability to share GPUs among multiple virtual desktop instances has contributed to a rise in GPU use in many VDI deployments.  Continue Reading

• How does Microsoft RemoteApp server-based virtualization work?

  With RemoteApp, users can access virtual apps that reside in a data center or in a cloud-based VM rather than locally on their devices. The app still behaves as though it's local.  Continue Reading

• How should IT assess zero client vs. thin client devices?

  Zero clients and thin clients can simplify the endpoints users work with in VDI deployments. The makeup of each option affects the benefits it delivers.  Continue Reading

• Are application layers always a good idea?

  App layering, which separates apps from the underlying OS, helps IT in several ways, including allowing it to deliver apps to specific groups, but it's not always a great fit.  Continue Reading

• How are application layering and app virtualization different?

  If IT pros effectively use either app layering or app virtualization, they can simplify management while improving the end-user experience.  Continue Reading

• How can IT improve its virtual application capacity plan?

  When IT deploys virtual apps, it must plan for the applications' capacity needs. Two common planning methods are monitoring app performance and load simulation.  Continue Reading

• Does application container technology differ from virtualization?

  When delivering virtual apps to users, IT has a few options up its sleeve, including containers, which isolate the app from the OS and other applications.  Continue Reading

• How can IT identify and manage VDI usage fluctuations?

  Unpredictable user behavior and boot storms can cause VDI resource usage fluctuations throughout the day. IT can take steps to identify and curtail the effects of these changes.  Continue Reading

• How does a client-based application with Microsoft App-V work?

  The app virtualization world is confusing. Get some clarity on how client-based app deployment works by taking a closer look at Microsoft App-V.  Continue Reading

• How should IT approach VDI provisioning?

  Over or underprovisioning resources for virtual desktops can leave a VDI deployment in rough shape. With a few tips, IT pros can make sure they make the correct calculations.  Continue Reading

• Can IT add digital watermarks to its virtual desktops?

  As part of a larger security strategy, watermarking virtual desktops can help IT discourage data leakage by adding user-specific text to each desktop.  Continue Reading

• How can IT retrieve VDI server configuration information?

  IT pros may need to retrieve server configuration information to diagnose problems with their VDI. They can do so in Windows-based deployments with the right PowerShell cmdlets.  Continue Reading

• How should IT evaluate application virtualization products?

  When picking an application virtualization tool, IT pros must understand the app types they are dealing with, determine their security needs and more.  Continue Reading

• Does deploying VDI affect other systems?

  VDI can affect areas of a company network, such as internet bandwidth. IT can mitigate the effects of VDI users by allocating resources and monitoring system performance.  Continue Reading

• How can IT combat rogue RDP access?

  Hackers can gain remote access to users' desktops through RDP hijacking. As a result, IT pros must know what they can do to prevent such an attack.  Continue Reading

• How does user location affect VDI capacity planning?

  When coming up with a VDI capacity plan, IT must account for exactly where users are located and possibly consider an SD-WAN or edge computing.  Continue Reading

• The evolution of the application performance management tool

  As apps evolve, the tools IT uses to manage them have to as well. App virtualization in particular has altered management needs by requiring that IT be able to see into the entire app stack.  Continue Reading

• What are the differences between TCP and UDP?

  When it comes to using TCP or UDP for sending packets of data through a network across devices, IT must know the differences and when each option is a good fit.  Continue Reading

• What root cause analysis software exists for virtual desktops?

  When trying to get to the bottom of virtual desktop problems, IT should turn to root cause analysis tools from vendors such as ControlUp and Lakeside Software.  Continue Reading

• What Citrix VDI monitoring tools are built in?

  XenApp and XenDesktop shops should use any of Citrix's four VDI monitoring tools to get better control over their deployments, user sessions and administrative changes.  Continue Reading

• How does a remote display protocol actually work?

  IT should know how remote display protocols, which transmit the desktop image from the data center to the end user, work because of the critical role they play in VDI.  Continue Reading

• What are the open source remote display protocol options?

  Fluctuating VDI costs can catch any organization by surprise. Consider open source remote display protocols to keep the price tag low and user experience high.  Continue Reading

• When to use published apps vs. streaming apps

  Don't get lost in application delivery. Compare application publishing and streaming to find the best option for an organization's unique setup and needs.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing technology holds VDI potential

  Edge computing is finding its place in the enterprise to handle data growth. IT may use that same advantage to help address problems in a VDI deployment.  Continue Reading

• Customize desktops with application virtualization tools

  With application virtualization tools, IT can deliver some of the customization users desire, even in nonpersistent VDI deployments.  Continue Reading

• Three user profile management tools for nonpersistent VDI

  IT can have trouble managing user profiles that are separate from the desktop images in nonpersistent VDI, but they can make things easier with user profile management tools.  Continue Reading

• How does app layering work with nonpersistent desktops?

  One of the big drawbacks of nonpersistent VDI is that users get no personalization. App layering can change that by keeping the apps separate from the OS itself.  Continue Reading

• How will cloud computing and analytics affect Citrix shops?

  Citrix's focus on monitoring, cloud computing and analytics will let IT do its job in new ways. Admins should embrace the change, consultant Theresa Miller says.  Continue Reading

• How does Office 365 VDI licensing work in nonpersistent deployments?

  Setting up Office 365 generally involves multiple devices. With nonpersistent VDI, the rules of the game change for IT admins.  Continue Reading

• How does Office 365 licensing work in VDI deployments?

  Licensing Office 365 for VDI deployments is not simple. The requirements change depending on the deployment type. Microsoft RDS, for example, completely alters how it works.  Continue Reading

• How does VMware Horizon View licensing work?

  Licensing is a critical component of VDI. VMware offers two main licensing options with Horizon View; a per user model and a per concurrent connection model.  Continue Reading

• How does Citrix XenDesktop licensing work?

  Licensing is a key component to virtual desktop infrastructure. Citrix XenDesktop provides businesses with the option of user or device specific models.  Continue Reading

• How can you set yourself up for VDI success?

  Deploying VDI is no simple task. As a result you must know what you're getting yourself into before starting a project or you are destined to fail.  Continue Reading

• What does the future of VDI hold in 2017?

  One expert believes 2017 will see VDI shops shift their attention toward graphics-intensive apps and a more widespread adoption of desktop as a service.  Continue Reading

• How does Citrix SmartAccess boost XenDesktop security?

  Citrix shops looking to enable secure remote access can employ the SmartAccess feature in XenApp and XenDesktop to require endpoint analysis using the company's NetScaler Gateway delivery controller.  Continue Reading

• Which organizations don't need to deliver virtual workspaces?

  Virtual workspace products make employees' desktops, applications and data available to them in the office or remotely. But not every company is well-suited to reap benefits from workspace products.  Continue Reading

• What custom services do DaaS vendors offer?

  It takes a lot of work to learn how to secure and manage cloud-hosted desktops. But, if it's an option financially, organizations could consider some of the upgraded services DaaS vendors offer to make IT's job easier.  Continue Reading

• What's new in VMware App Volumes 3.0?

  App Volumes was a big addition to VMware's application virtualization portfolio. Learn how new features in version 3.0, such as AppToggle, could fix some of its deficiencies.  Continue Reading

• How does Citrix HDX 3D Pro support GPU virtualization?

  IT administrators can use Citrix HDX to deliver graphics-intensive applications in XenDesktop and XenApp, but they'll need HDX 3D Pro to optimize the application performance even more and limit bandwidth consumption.  Continue Reading

• How does Citrix StoreFront work with XenApp and XenDesktop?

  Citrix's enterprise app store can help VDI shops transition to a mobile-friendly virtual desktop and application strategy by broadening remote access and providing a simpler user interface for employees.  Continue Reading

• Are virtual desktops as vulnerable to malware attacks as PCs?

  Administrators still need to worry about malware on virtual desktops, but common VDI configuration and management practices make them inherently more secure than PCs.  Continue Reading

• Do you need malware protection on a VDI thin client?

  There are plenty of options for VDI thin client devices out there, and most are safe to use without antimalware software. Learn which thin client needs extra protection and why.  Continue Reading

• Does hyper-converged infrastructure improve VDI scalability?

  Hyper-converged systems are a big investment, but they also provide the flexibility to add or subtract resources to fit the demands of a VDI project -- from beginning to full implementation.  Continue Reading

• What are the security benefits of using thin client devices?

  Thin clients are useful endpoints for organizations that support VDI, because they provide an extra layer of protection from user-initiated security risks.  Continue Reading

• What are the biggest challenges of nonpersistent VDI security?

  It's hard for hackers to cause much long-term damage to a nonpersistent desktop, but good luck trying to audit and investigate security vulnerabilities on those desktops.  Continue Reading

• How can the Citrix X1 Mouse benefit virtual desktop users?

  Citrix isn't known for hardware, but the X1 Mouse ties in well with its XenApp and XenDesktop products by making it easier to use virtual desktops and apps on iOS devices.  Continue Reading

• How do nonpersistent and persistent desktop management differ?

  Persistent virtual desktops might be more like physical PCs, but nonpersistent desktops are easier to manage, because they run from one golden image and don't require as much storage.  Continue Reading

• How does a roaming user profile work?

  Although there are several newer tools available, Microsoft roaming profiles is a simple and time-tested way to manage a user's profile across physical and virtual desktop environments.  Continue Reading

• How do physical and virtual desktop patch deployment differ?

  Patching virtual desktops and PCs isn't exactly the same. VDI puts more strain on your storage system, and read-only virtual desktop images often erase patches at the end of a user's session.  Continue Reading

• Which VDI client has the best long-term viability?

  Using physical desktops, thin clients and HTML5 browsers are all good options for delivering VDI. Organizations are best off choosing the most cost-effective approach.  Continue Reading

• Should businesses use HTML5 remote desktop clients?

  HTML5 clients can serve as a widely accessible, mobile friendly way for users to access virtual desktops, but there are still a few security kinks to work out.  Continue Reading

• How does virtual desktop performance compare to PCs?

  Virtual desktops need to perform similar to physical desktops, or else users become frustrated. Most companies now have enough back-end resources to support speedy VDI connections.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of deploying Linux virtual desktops?

  Not everyone will need Linux virtual desktops, but one bonus that could sway organizations is not dealing with Windows VDI licensing costs.  Continue Reading

• Differences between EVO:RAIL, Virtual SAN Ready Nodes and Rapid Desktop Appliance

  VMware offers three converged and hyper-converged products that may appeal to VDI shops, but each one works a little bit differently.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between a VM clone and a template?

  Creating virtual machine templates and clones are quick-and-easy ways to deploy multiple VMs, but for your VDI environment to thrive, you should know the best use cases for each method.  Continue Reading

• What VMware certification program changes affect VDI admins?

  VMware certificate holders should get ready to do their homework. Nearly all VMware certification programs include new, more strenuous requirements.  Continue Reading

• Which hyper-converged systems are best for VDI?

  Hyper-converged systems provide an opportunity for IT departments to streamline the data center, but VDI shops need to make sure their system meets virtualization-specific parameters.  Continue Reading

• How does hyper-converged infrastructure help VDI shops?

  Some hyper-converged infrastructure vendors developed their products with VDI shops in mind. IT can reduce VDI-related headaches with the right HCI platform.  Continue Reading

• Should VDI shops use hyper-converged infrastructure?

  The tighter integration in hyper-converged infrastructure gives VDI shops the performance and management they're looking for, but some companies might deem it too big of an adjustment.  Continue Reading

• How will hyper-converged systems affect VDI admin jobs?

  HCI comes packaged together so IT shops can manage the entire system at once. That sounds convenient, but it can also create department organization issues.  Continue Reading

• Do I really need Citrix NetScaler?

  NetScaler or not, you need an application delivery controller. But XenApp and XenDesktop shops that use a non-Citrix gateway run the risk of losing Citrix's support.  Continue Reading

• How do I upgrade to the latest version of Citrix Receiver?

  Citrix Receiver lets users connect from almost any device to their virtual applications and desktops. It's important that they have the most recent version of the client so they can take reap the benefits of new features.  Continue Reading

• Should my organization consider Microsoft RemoteFX?

  Microsoft RemoteFX is a feature in Windows Server that can help a virtual desktop behave more like a physical one.  Continue Reading

• What are the biggest barriers to VDI adoption and acceptance?

  Users and management have ideas about what desktops should look and feel like, and VDI might not fit that bill. Add the upfront costs and you've got some serious barriers to VDI adoption.  Continue Reading

• What are the biggest pros and cons of VDI?

  Cost savings and easier management are billed as top reasons to do VDI, but the technology also has downsides, and its complexity can make it daunting.  Continue Reading

• What are some of the best features of VDI-in-a-Box?

  Citrix VDI-in-a-Box is easy to set up and scale, it has a simple architecture, and it uses automatic load balancing.  Continue Reading

• Should I pursue a VMware certification?

  There are a lot of VMware certifications you could get, but whether you need one depends on what your job entails and how far you want to go in your career.  Continue Reading

• How does VMware Soft 3D work?

  VMware's Soft 3D makes CPU emulate a GPU so workers who have minimal graphics needs on their virtual desktops can still get the performance they want and need.  Continue Reading

• How do I use VMware vDGA?

  VMware vDGA lets you link a whole GPU to a virtual desktop, but you can only support eight VMs per ESXi host that way.  Continue Reading

• What is VMware vSGA?

  You don't have to choose between bad performance and dropping major coin on dedicated GPUs for each VM. VMware's vSGA lets VMs share GPUs so you can improve graphics without breaking the bank.  Continue Reading

• Can I use a tablet for VDI?

  Technology-wise, it's possible to access a virtual desktop from a tablet, but the user experience may not be ideal. On the other hand, if you have a mouse and keyboard hooked up to the tablet, it can be a great way to access VDI.  Continue Reading

• Do I need antivirus for VDI deployments?

  Virtual desktop environments aren't immune to viruses and malware, so it's important to have an antivirus tool and strategy in place before your deployment gets infected.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between VDI vs. Terminal Services?

  The VDI vs. Terminal Services (or RDS) debate is based on the differences between the two methods for delivering remote desktops. One uses sessions and the other connects users to full client OS desktops.  Continue Reading

• How do I write an effective DaaS SLA?

  Consider what you and your chosen DaaS provider need when you're negotiating an SLA. You'll ensure uptime for users' desktops and keep the vendor accountable.  Continue Reading

• How does VDI software work?

  Virtual desktop infrastructure can seem complex because there are so many options and possible configurations. But when it comes down to it, VDI software works via two easy-to-understand components.  Continue Reading

• Why should I consider adopting VDI?

  The ever-changing IT landscape is a reason some shops don't want to get locked into a big virtualization investment, but adopting VDI can actually help companies meet users' needs and adapt to new trends and technology.  Continue Reading

• Unveiling the mystery behind VDI implementation costs

  Your VDI implementation can get costly -- fast. With servers, licenses, storage and tools to buy, the Capex for VDI can skyrocket, but remember that over the long term, Opex is less with VDI than with traditional PCs.  Continue Reading

• ThinApp vs. XenApp: What's the difference?

  ThinApp and XenApp are both application virtualization tools. They do basically the same thing, they just come from different vendors.  Continue Reading

• How to maximize VDI uptime

  To maximize VDI uptime, you have to choose quality hardware, test software patches and find single points of failure. And remember that admins can be those points, too.  Continue Reading

• What does the Nvidia, VMware and Google partnership mean for VDI?

  Nvidia, VMware and Google have teamed up to deliver quality graphics on low-cost Chromebooks. Though the devices' enterprise readiness has been questioned in the past, this collaboration could garner a double take.  Continue Reading

• VMware's Project Fargo gives users desktops on the fly

  VMware's Project Fargo lets you copy an already-running virtual machine and deliver it to users, giving them fast access to nonpersistent desktops without taking up much disk space.  Continue Reading

• How can I implement cloud desktops?

  There are four different ways to do desktop as a service in your organization. Each option, however, has its pros and cons.  Continue Reading

• Tips for negotiating a contract with VDI vendors

  How do you arrange the ideal VDI contract? Shop around and pit vendors against each other; never pay full price; and if all else fails, convince the vendor to throw in products or services for free.  Continue Reading

• How does hot desking work?

  Hot desking is the practice of maintaining fewer desks or PCs than there are employees who need them. The model helps cut overhead costs, but it can cause productivity issues if there aren't enough workstations.  Continue Reading

• How do I calculate VDI ROI?

  There's no magic formula or one-size-fits-all approach to figuring VDI ROI. Look at vendor calculators to see which costs they factor in, but do the calculations on your own.  Continue Reading

• Can I use XenClient to change a PC to thin client?

  With Citrix XenClient, you can easily turn a PC into a thin client. If you have XenDesktop Enterprise or Platinum licenses already, you can do it for free.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshooting XenApp and HDX connectivity

  If you're having problems with HDX on XenApp servers, check TCP port 1494 first. If that doesn't work, consider turning off Session Reliability temporarily.  Continue Reading

• Are built-in user profile management tools good enough?

  Sometimes the user profile management utilities that are built into your vendors' VDI product are enough. But if you have more advanced needs than allowing workers to personalize their desktops, you might need third-party tools.  Continue Reading

• How do I calculate VDI storage needs?

  Your VDI storage needs will vary depending on the kinds of desktops and images you're planning to deploy, but calculating how much storage you need is easy.  Continue Reading

• RDSH vs. VDI comparison proves use case is everything

  In a RDSH vs. VDI comparison, it's not a matter of which is better. The most important thing is which one best fits your use case. VDI is good if users need multiple applications, but RDSH is a more lightweight model.  Continue Reading

• Should you ever delete VDI user profiles?

  VDI user profiles aren't necessary when workers don't need to maintain their settings from one session to the next. If that's your use case, you can deploy nonpersistent desktops that delete VDI user profiles at logoff.  Continue Reading

• Why should you deploy thin client devices?

  Thin client devices can provide a lot of benefits in virtualization environments, but make sure you have the staff to support them.  Continue Reading