You’ve likely heard of or may even be using server virtualization already. A hosted virtual desktop (HVD) takes the concepts of server virtualization and translates that into a user desktop experience. Just as server virtualization offers next level in network efficiency and productivity at an organizational level, hosted virtual desktops stand to do the same at the employee level.
But before you can decide if an HVD environment may be a good fit for your business, you have to understand what it is. In this post, we break down the fundamentals of what a hosted virtual desktop is, how it can benefit your business and some common challenges companies face with HVDs.
The Fundamentals of a Hosted Virtual Desktop
A hosted virtual desktop is a physical server hosted either at your facility or out of a data center that allows users access to a virtual desktop environment. Each user’s desktop operates as a virtual machine (VM) on the HVD environment. The server or servers host the operating system and system applications. Users access this virtual environment through either a web browser or proprietary software as though they were accessing a physical desktop.
Benefits of a Hosted Virtual Desktop
Mobility
Because the VM environment is hosted on a server, users can access their desktops on just about any computer with an internet connection, thus freeing the user from being tied to any one particular device. You could use your office computer to access your HVD during the workday and then go home and access the same VM from your home laptop. All of your data and applications are continually synchronized in real-time, allowing you to access critical information from just about anywhere. If your team prioritizes flexibility and mobility, an HVD solution provides an optimal solution by allowing them to work from anywhere, anytime. Off-site resources also streamline the disaster recovery process in the event of critical issues with your computer network.
Cost Savings
If you use a public cloud solution to host your HVD environment, your cloud service provider is responsible for storage, backup, security, and upgrades, so you can minimize operating and overhead expenses while experiencing a streamlined cloud computing platform. Today’s cloud provider prioritize redundancy, around-the-clock availability, and optimized resources so you can count on your data and applications always being there when you need them most. By migrating to an HVD environment, you can maximize the lifespan of your organizations existing desktops and laptops. In all, the cost savings associated with an HVD platform can reduce operating by 30 to 50 percent.
Flexibility
If you utilize a cloud subscription model to host your HVD environment, you have access to on-demand server resources to prioritize elasticity and adaptability. That means you can add desktop users with just a few clicks and at a moment’s notice. With an HVD solution, technology will never slow your business growth down again. As new software is released, you can deploy updates more efficiently across your HVD platform, minimizing downtime, and maximizing productivity.
Control
An HVD platform allows for a central point of control from which you can deploy new administrative policies quickly and efficiently. Instead of having to manage multiple desktops and laptops, you can control administrative policies and rights from one central platform.
Challenges of a Hosted Virtual Desktop
While an HVD platform offers some significant benefits, it also comes with its own set of unique problems and challenges. However, most of these issues can be addressed by finding the ideal cloud partner for your needs. Common problems include:
Network Connectivity
Because the HVD environment is hosted on a server, access requires a reliable internet connection in order to access data and applications. Without a solid internet connection, your team will be left without the mission-critical resources they need for day-to-day operations.
Authentication Configuration
Your HVD platform requires three critical functions in order to operate effectively and efficiently:
- Security: Security consists of ensuring that users can only access what they should be able to access on your network.
- Applications: Application authentication is the process through which you ensure that users have access to the applications and tools they need for work.
- Billing: Billing is how you ensure that your company is being billed correctly for the server resources you’re actually using.
Balancing and prioritizing these functions is critical to ensure that your HVD solution is properly configured and designed to make sure your team has the tools they need to succeed. If you don’t take the time to address these concerns, you will likely find that your HVD environment creates more problems than it solves.
HVD vs. DaaS
While an HVD solution closely resembles a desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) solution in many respects, the HVD platform generally offers more control, ingrained security, and more personalization features for each user.
Los Angeles IT Support
If you’re in the Los Angeles area and you’re looking for a team with the technical expertise to develop and deploy a hosted virtual desktop environment for your business, contact the team at Be Structured today. We’ll help you understand your options and work with you to design a network solution that aligns with your growth goals.
