Virtual desktop infrastructures, or VDIs, simply put are virtual desktops created and managed by virtual machines. These machines are the results of servers segmented by a hypervisor (a software that creates and runs virtual machines).
The virtual machines then host virtual desktops which one can access from any mobile device, and all processing will be done within the host server.
Why Use VDIs?
For starters, the use of a single processor, and the ability for multiple users to interact with a single virtual host, means that not only will employees have easier access from anywhere in the world they need to work, but that data created by employees will live on the server rather than a personal device. Therefore, important information is more secure while still allowing employees to work remotely easily.
For a more personal look into how using a VDI has helped employees be sure to take a look at Forbes' The Virtual Worker: The Role of VID in the Virtual Workforce. This article is not only an example of a real-world application but also brings up how far VDIs have come. This software has actually been around for quite some time, starting off with a low range of portfolios to hosts, but has since greatly advanced in applications and security. The article also provides a few tips on using the software with virtual workers in mind, but for more information, check out some of our solutions for better IT management for a virtual workforce.
Now more than ever, businesses need to invest in software that makes it easier for employees to complete their work from home, while also securing it. However, there is one more major benefit to VDIs: efficient maintenance. For an IT team, having everything centralized makes it easier to fix patches, configure the desktops, and update. This is wonderful news not just for IT personnel, but for everyone working with the company. As routine maintenance will take away far less time, workers will be able to get back to what needs to be done faster.
Transformation of the Workforce
To better understand VDIs is to next look at the software through the eyes of the employee. For starters, VDIs allow for companies to prepare entire environments, including apps and more to a variety of devices. The employee can now access everything they need to work from anywhere, without having to worry over the security of their network. Furthermore, as the desktop is managed by a host, the employee will not be able to download games or additional apps which could interfere with productivity, as well as create a headache for the IT team.
What about other files or software already on the employee's device? Thankfully, the environment of a VDI is safe from interference of other applications on a device, malware, and more. Finally, because workers don't need to download important information directly to their devices, this lessens the chances of compromising data through theft or loss. This, of course, helps the business in security but also helps to alleviate the worries around suddenly losing progress while working from home, due to a power outage, a faulty device, etc.
For more information on how VDIs have been transforming the workplace for years, be sure to read this article on How VDI Became the Workforce Transformation Solution That's Been Staring Us in the Face.
There is much more to VDIs, but the most important things to remember are as follows: For any company employing individuals who work remotely, software efficiency and security are the two essentials. We at Network Connections serve companies big and small, personalizing management and support of your entire IT infrastructure. For more information on our services, contact us today.
For the additional challenges to working remotely and how we can help, check out our quick tips.
