Desktop Virtualisation
Desktop Virtualisation is a form of hardware virtualisation that allows the creation of multiple operating systems environments within a server or a PC. There are numerous practical ways for organisations to benefit from desktop virtualisation technology as it deals with many issues surrounding software compatibility, remote desktop deployment and the introduction of thin-client computing.
It works by creating a virtual machine, in much the same way as with server virtualisation, which is then installed with a suitable operating system and any applications that are required. Because the machine itself is virtual, back-up, replication and recovery are greatly simplified and a user may switch easily between different virtual machines in order to access different operating environments.
A virtualised desktop infrastructure allows an organisation to host its desktops in a central data-centre and can incorporate management tools which allow it to be implemented as an enterprise wide desktop solution. In this way desktop support can be greatly simplified and migrations, deployments and development happen faster.
ukngroup has developed expertise with varying technologies associated with desktop virtualisation, such as VMWare VDI and Microsoft Virtual PC. Far from being a homogenous solution to all desktop requirements however, the greatest benefits will be achieved by combining it with other methods of desktop delivery - producing a truly flexible, hybrid environment.
