Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

Virtual desktop tools and technology

• 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 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 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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