Virtual and remote desktop strategies
When an organization elects to use remote or virtual desktops, it must make many strategic decisions. These decisions include how to deliver the applications and desktops, what endpoints users use and which vendors to choose for various tools.
Top Stories
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Feature
29 Mar 2024
How to pick the best thin client OS for an organization
Organizations that need thin clients may want to deploy thin client OSes to make management and local apps easier. Find out how to pick the right thin client OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2024
7 steps to fix a black screen on a Windows 11 remote desktop
Remote desktops are a common technology to provide access to Windows systems, but these types of desktops are susceptible to errors such a full black screen. Learn how to fix this. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2024
7 steps to fix a black screen on a Windows 11 remote desktop
Remote desktops are a common technology to provide access to Windows systems, but these types of desktops are susceptible to errors such a full black screen. Learn how to fix this. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Mar 2024
Understanding the basics of Windows 365 Government
Windows 365 Government isn't available to all Microsoft customers, but organizations such as governments and privileged contractors can benefit from this specialized offering. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2024
desktop as a service (DaaS)
Desktop as a service (DaaS) is a cloud computing offering in which a third party hosts the back end of a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) deployment. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2024
desktop virtualization
Desktop virtualization is the concept of isolating a logical operating system (OS) instance from the client used to access it. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Feb 2024
First thoughts on VMware EUC sale to private equity firm KKR
Broadcom's sale of VMware EUC to private equity firm KKR will likely mean big changes, but the deal shouldn't be compared to Citrix's sale to Vista. Here's why. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2024
Broadcom to sell VMware EUC division to KKR for $3.8B
Customers that pair VMware's hypervisor with Horizon and Workspace One desktops might feel licensing jitters, but the deal could lead to more flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2024
Can users run Windows 365 on Android and iOS?
While laptops and PCs are the most common business endpoints to access desktops from, some users might benefit from delivering desktops to mobile endpoints such as iOS and Android. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Feb 2024
11 more alternative desktop and app virtualization vendors
Many organizations turn to the biggest desktop virtualization vendors for size and scale reasons, but smaller vendors that occupy a niche are worth knowing as well. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2024
What types of management are available for thin client OSes?
Thin client OSes present opportunities to run virtual desktop environments more efficiently, but they come with management decisions and challenges as well. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2024
What purpose do thin client OSes serve?
Thin clients can act as hubs for virtual desktop OSes or run their own OSes locally. These OSes are made to support a centralized computing model, which offers many benefits. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Dec 2023
Broadcom intends to divest VMware EUC: What's next?
Broadcom officially intends to divest itself of VMware EUC, leaving questions about where the end user computing division and VMware's desktop technologies might land. Continue Reading
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News
27 Nov 2023
AWS' remote work gambit: Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client
AWS rolls out a computer in a Fire TV Cube box. The $195 device gives enterprises an inexpensive end-user hardware option for remote workers and promises tighter data security. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Nov 2023
What happens to VMware EUC and Carbon Black under Broadcom?
Following the acquisition of VMware, there are a number of directions Broadcom could go with VMware's end user computing and Carbon Black business units. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2023
6 benefits of desktop virtualization for businesses
There are several ways to manage and deliver desktops to end users, and a few of them involve desktop virtualization. Find out what the major benefits of virtualization are. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Nov 2023
graphics processing unit (GPU)
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a computer chip that renders graphics and images by performing rapid mathematical calculations. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2023
How to work with the new Windows LAPS feature
Microsoft updated this automated method to manage and back up passwords for local administrator accounts on Windows desktop and server systems. See what's new with Windows LAPS. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Sep 2023
Maximize application performance with VDI optimization tools
IT administrators should look into different VDI optimization tools to reduce the amount of resources used and maximize performance. Learn all about these tools and their benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Sep 2023
remote desktop connection broker
A remote desktop connection broker is software that allows a remote desktop client to connect to a remote desktop host or server. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Aug 2023
How to use Terraform to configure Azure Virtual Desktop
There are several ways to configure and test an Azure Virtual Desktop environment, but Terraform has some key strengths that can help IT improve their AVD management. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jul 2023
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
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Definition
20 Jul 2023
Citrix XenApp
Citrix XenApp, now called Citrix Virtual Apps, was a product that extends Microsoft Remote Desktop Session Host (formerly known as Terminal Services) desktop sessions and applications to users through the Citrix HDX protocol. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jul 2023
How to avoid VDI overprovisioning
IT must allocate VDI resources in a balanced way to prevent VDI overprovisioning. Explore common overprovisioning mistakes and how to properly allocate resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
desktop
A desktop is a computer display area that represents the kinds of objects found on top of a physical desk, including documents, phone books, telephones, reference sources, writing and drawing tools, and project folders. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 May 2023
Parallels
Parallels is a software company best-known for its software that allows users to run Microsoft Windows systems on Apple Macintosh computers. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
Mitigate VDI performance issues with resource management
To improve user experience, IT can take advantage of virtual desktop configurations that limit resource usage. This frees up resources for all desktops to perform basic functions. Continue Reading
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Opinion
17 May 2023
Is it time for a new name for thin clients?
The thin client market has evolved significantly to the point where these endpoints aren't all that thin. Find out the case for renaming these devices to 'rich clients.' Continue Reading
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Definition
12 May 2023
app virtualization (application virtualization)
App virtualization (application virtualization) is the separation of an installation of an application from the client computer accessing it. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 May 2023
telecommuting
Telecommuting allows an employee to complete work assignments from outside the traditional workplace using telecommunications tools such as email, phone, chat and video apps. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2023
What are RDS CALs and how should IT use them?
IT teams rely on CALs to ensure that RDS users are properly licensed for their sessions, so they should know how to work with them and what different options they present. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2023
USB redirection
USB redirection is a technology that enables an end user to plug an external device into a USB port on their endpoint and access the device from within a remote desktop or application. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 May 2023
Calculating sustainability and emissions for VDI and DaaS
Though VDI and DaaS are both desktop virtualization services, their sustainability can differ significantly, so business leaders should learn how to calculate their emissions. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Apr 2023
Forecasting VDI trends and the future of the market
VDI was once thought to be the future of managing desktops, but at times it can feel like a relic. However, VDI has certain characteristics that ensure it's here to stay. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Apr 2023
Pros and cons of building up VDI in the current market
Determining how to host and manage desktops for an entire organization is a major task, so business leaders need to understand the modern VDI market before making this decision. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Apr 2023
Microsoft App-V (Microsoft Application Virtualization)
Microsoft Application Virtualization (App-V) is an application virtualization client that makes an application available to end users without installing it on a personal computer (PC). Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Apr 2023
Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS)
Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) is a feature of the Windows Server operating system (OS) that extends end users' single sign-on (SSO) access to applications and systems outside the corporate firewall. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Apr 2023
VMware vs. Citrix: Which is better for your organization?
VMware and Citrix both offer useful virtualization tools, but each one has its pros and cons. Explore the features and other factors that can help you decide between them. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2023
virtual server
A virtual server, also known as a virtual machine (VM), is a partitioned space inside a real server and is transparent to users, replicating the functionality of a dedicated physical server. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Mar 2023
How to fix keyboard connection issues on a remote desktop
When the keyboard for a remote desktop isn't working, sys admins will need to run through these steps to find the root cause of the problem and address it. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Mar 2023
Fixing issues with a computer mouse on a remote desktop
Running a remote desktop comes with all sorts of hardware considerations for IT to address, including how the desktop interacts with local hardware, such as a computer mouse. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2023
How to configure multiple monitors for remote desktop use
A remote desktop workstation may require specific configurations for the local hardware, including options to set up multiple monitors on an RDP desktop. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Feb 2023
Azure Virtual Desktop sizing guide for IT
Deploying Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) can provide synergy across Microsoft services, but there are decisions that IT must make to determine the capacity of the environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Feb 2023
EG Innovations
EG Innovations is an end-user experience and infrastructure monitoring software vendor best known for its EG Enterprise product. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
QWERTY keyboard
The QWERTY (pronounced KWEHR-tee) keyboard is the standard typewriter and computer keyboard in countries that use a Latin-based alphabet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH)
Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) is a role in Remote Desktop Services (RDS). Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2023
Remote Desktop Services (RDS)
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is an umbrella term for features of Microsoft Windows Server that allow users to remotely access graphical desktops and Windows applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Dec 2022
Understanding Azure Virtual Desktop management and storage
In this Q&A, author Ryan Mangan discusses best practices for Azure Virtual Desktop management, the importance of storage and more from his book, 'Mastering Azure Virtual Desktop.' Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Dec 2022
Test your Azure Virtual Desktop storage management skills
Use these questions to test how well you know the best practices for managing Azure Virtual Desktop storage. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Dec 2022
The enterprise endpoint device market heading into 2023
Modern enterprise organizations have numerous options to choose from on the endpoint market. Learn about some of the main offerings that business leaders should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2022
How to fix a remote desktop microphone that's not working
Hybrid work can create new technical issues for employees, and a remote desktop microphone not working is one frustrating possibility. Understand how to troubleshoot the problem. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2022
Enabling and supporting webcam use on remote desktops
When IT teams manage employees using remote desktops, they should make sure they can set up and troubleshoot peripheral devices, such as webcams. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2022
zero client
Zero client, also known as ultrathin client, is a server-based computing model in which the end user's computing device has no local storage. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2022
How do Citrix and VMware's on-premises VDI costs compare?
To compare Citrix vs. VMware for VDI pricing, organizations must understand how some of their features impact costs. Learn how aspects like the hypervisor factor into VDI pricing. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2022
Comparing the features of Citrix and VMware's VDI software
Citrix and VMware offer tools to simplify VDI deployment and management for IT. Understand the key differences between Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops and VMware Horizon. Continue Reading
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News
27 Sep 2022
Jamf to acquire ZecOps to bolster iOS security
Jamf will pay an undisclosed sum for ZecOps, which logs activity on iOS devices to find potential attacks. The companies expect the deal to close by 2023. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Sep 2022
CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment)
CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment) is a virtual reality (VR) environment consisting of a cube-shaped VR room or a room-scale area in which the walls, floors and ceilings are projection screens. Continue Reading
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News
30 Aug 2022
VMware updates Horizon Cloud to reduce infrastructure needs
VMware has improved Horizon Cloud and added features to Workspace One UEM. It also plans to launch a managed virtual desktop product to support the various needs of hybrid work. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Aug 2022
6 steps for when remote desktop credentials are not working
Without a solid connection, remote desktops simply cannot function. When there are remote desktop connection issues, IT administrators should follow these steps. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jul 2022
New CEO not likely to change Tibco once merged with Citrix
The analytics vendor's product leaders all remain in place, so while it will have a new company leader, its product development capabilities are expected to remain unchanged. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2022
Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan)
Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan) is a free Microsoft tool that enables IT administrators to organize, group and control multiple remote desktop connections. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jun 2022
How to approach Citrix performance troubleshooting
Citrix performance issues can be difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and troubleshoot them using various techniques, such as automation. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2022
Understanding remote desktop connection management tools
With the influx of remote work, it's no surprise that organizations need a way to access and manage remote user desktops effectively. A few types of tools factor into this effort. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2022
Using native and third-party Citrix troubleshooting tools
End-user issues will come up in any virtual desktop environment, so administrators must be prepared. For a Citrix environment, there are various tools at IT's disposal. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
Understanding the DaaS options for Macs
When people discuss desktop as a service, it is usually in the context of Windows desktops. For macOS, however, implementing DaaS can be more complicated. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2022
virtual hard disk (VHD)
A virtual hard disk (VHD) is a disk image file format for storing the entire contents of a computer's hard drive. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2021
How to configure automatic Azure Virtual Desktop scaling
Azure Virtual Desktop now supports VM automation for tasks such as scaling up and ramping down. These features can lead to a more efficient and cost-effective VDI environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2021
virtual desktop
A virtual desktop is a computer operating system that does not run directly on the endpoint hardware from which a user accesses it. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Oct 2021
Parallels Desktop for Mac
Parallels Desktop for Mac is desktop virtualization software that allows Microsoft Windows, Linux and Google Chrome OSes and applications to run on an Apple Mac computer. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Sep 2021
Understanding the difference between thin and thick clients
How do thin and thick clients compare for licensing or flexibility? These two endpoint types each have their role in the enterprise, but they fit into organizations in very different ways. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jul 2021
HP to buy Teradici to improve virtual-desktop delivery
Teradici would provide HP with technology to help customers bolster the performance of their virtual desktops. HP expects to close the deal this year. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2021
Microsoft Windows 365 confuses tech buyers
Microsoft hasn't clearly defined when a company should pick Windows 365 over its other desktop as a service, Azure Virtual Desktop. The differences seem more subtle than dramatic. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2021
Citrix launches well-being microapps for Workspace
Citrix will help companies measure employee wellness with simple programs that can take surveys and distribute health and corporate news. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Dec 2020
Why COVID-19 fuels desktop virtualization trends
VDI products provide organizations with a foundation for remote employees, but they aren't a cure-all. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2020
Running GPU passthrough for a virtual desktop with Hyper-V
Any IT admin knows that desktop performance must be high quality to provide quality UX, and in some cases, admins may need to configure GPU passthrough for power user virtual desktops. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Oct 2020
What is virtual desktop infrastructure? VDI explained
Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is a desktop virtualization technology wherein a desktop operating system, typically Microsoft Windows, runs and is managed in a data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Oct 2020
8 key VDI deployment best practices
When IT plans for its VDI deployment, it must factor in best practices for the setup process, such as considering client options and designing the VDI to have high availability. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Oct 2020
How to calculate VDI costs and keep them to a minimum
When the true cost of VDI is hazy, it's a good idea to make a comprehensive calculation. Determine how to factor in costs related to hardware, infrastructure, licensing and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2020
Consider affordable VDI alternatives to Citrix and VMware
Citrix, VMware and Microsoft aren't the only VDI vendors on the block. Check out alternatives to the major players and what lesser-known VDI vendors can offer. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Sep 2020
VDI testing checklist: Key steps to test a VDI deployment
Whether IT is running VDI for the first time or simply tweaking the back-end hardware, admins should follow a VDI testing checklist to ensure positive UX and sufficient desktop resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2020
How to troubleshoot common VDI issues
VDI administrators must be adept at troubleshooting various VDI issues. Sufficient planning can prevent some, but IT should be prepared to deal with a few common issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
VDI hardware comparison: Thin vs. thick vs. zero clients
Thin clients aren't on a diet; they just do less processing than 'fat' clients. Devices such as the iPad are also VDI hardware options. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Sep 2020
6 ways VDI can benefit your business
As with any technology implementation, VDI requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. Evaluate these VDI benefits to determine whether it's a good fit for the business. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2020
How to evaluate VDI storage requirements
There are a variety of factors that affect VDI storage, including system requirements and supported workloads. Evaluate these factors to ease the VDI planning process. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Sep 2020
Picking the right VDI use cases means understanding users
When deciding whether or not to use VDI, IT pros should consider the user above all else, including how users will adjust, as well as what they do and where they work. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2020
3 VDI challenges that can derail any project
IT shops need to look out for complexity, cost and performance problems when they put a VDI implementation plan in place. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2020
Understanding persistent vs. nonpersistent VDI
You have a big decision to make when you deploy virtual desktops: Do you go with persistent or nonpersistent VDI? The choice often comes down to storage.. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Jun 2020
Comparing AMD vs. Nvidia for virtual desktop GPU cards
Both AMD and Nvidia bring virtual GPUs to virtual desktop users with resource-intensive applications, but organizations should learn what each vendor's vGPU cards can offer. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 May 2020
What is a roaming profile and how does it work?
Although several newer tools are 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
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Feature
20 May 2020
Design firm ups productivity with Workspot
Mead & Hunt is using Workspot virtual desktops to enable remote work during the pandemic -- and it's paying off in ways the firm didn't expect. Continue Reading
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Opinion
17 Apr 2020
A deep dive into the internet, bandwidth, and how users in EUC and elsewhere affect capacity
Rachel Berry offers us a look into how the internet works and whether more people working from home could result in potential bandwidth issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Apr 2020
For VDI, coronavirus pandemic could require a new approach
Organizations may need to set up VDI deployments or alter existing infrastructure to support the influx of demand for remote work support due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2020
HPE bolsters VDI product offerings
With an eye toward maintaining business continuity, HPE is making VDI product moves. Experts said the news comes at a critical time for companies. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2020
Remote work tools go from '0 to 100' in Corona
This city has turned to technology -- like Citrix virtual desktops -- to maintain services in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis. CIO Chris McMasters discusses the lessons already learned. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2020
Workspot VDI key to engineering firm's pandemic planning
Southland Industries was in the process of transitioning to a virtual desktop service when COVID-19 emerged. In this Q&A, Israel Sumano discusses how the outbreak accelerated those plans. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Mar 2020
4 VDI automation use cases that lower IT's management burden
IT pros should understand the role of automation in VDI because automating certain tasks such as virtual desktop creation and monitoring can free up IT to focus on other issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Mar 2020
Coronavirus could spur desktop-as-a-service adoption
Some organizations -- like a city in California and a university in Australia -- have turned to desktop as a service in the face of disruptions like the coronavirus. Continue Reading
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News
25 Feb 2020
Bank grows with Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops without growing IT
For more than a decade, Renasant Bank has partnered with Citrix to accommodate growth without a drastic IT staff increase. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2020
Workspot launches Cloud Desktop Fabric
Workspot claims its new Cloud Desktop Fabric architecture will improve virtual desktop performance by connecting users to the cloud resources closest to them. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2020
Workspace focus splits virtualization market
The once-stable virtualization market is changing as some vendors begin to think more about workspaces. In this Q&A, IDC's Shannon Kalvar talks about what it all means. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Jan 2020
IGEL Disrupt 2020: My initial report
Windows Virtual Desktop support is officially available; IGEL is working on Workspace ONE and Intune integration. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2019
Benefits of virtualization highlighted in top 10 stories of 2019
Based on our top 10 most-read stories of 2019, IT pros sought to learn the benefits of virtualization, as well as the drawbacks, as the technology gained ground. Continue Reading