Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and traditional desktops are two options available to businesses for their computing needs. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, it is important to evaluate which one provides the most value to your business.
Traditional desktops offer businesses an easy-to-use solution that has been used for decades. They are relatively inexpensive and can be easily customised to suit an individual user’s needs. Desktops can be tailored to meet the requirements of a specific department or employee, which makes them ideal for companies with varying needs.
On the other hand, VDI offers several differences over traditional desktops. VDI allows users to access a virtual desktop that is hosted on a server, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This means that employees can work remotely or on-the-go, which is increasingly important for businesses with a dispersed workforce. VDI also offers increased security and control over the desktop environment with increased ability to monitor and manage all desktops from a central location.
One of the primary benefits of VDI is that it allows for easy management and deployment of applications and updates. Instead of updating each individual desktop, updates and new software can be pushed out to all users at once, saving time and resources. VDI also offers greater flexibility for scaling up or down, which is important for businesses that experience fluctuations in demand.
While VDI offers many benefits, there are also some downsides to consider. VDI can be more expensive to implement initially, with higher infrastructure costs and additional licensing fees. It also requires a strong and reliable internet connection, which may not be available in all locations. In addition, VDI can require additional training and support for employees who are not used to working in a virtual desktop environment and voice and video continue to be a challenge to deliver well and consistently.
The decision to choose VDI or traditional desktops depends on the specific needs of your business. Traditional desktops are ideal for companies that have fixed computing requirements and are looking for a cost-effective solution. However, VDI provides flexibility, scalability, and security, making it an ideal solution for businesses with a dispersed workforce or for those that require more advanced security measures. Ultimately, the choice between VDI and desktops comes down to the value that each option provides for your specific business needs.
At VInet, we are well versed in assisting customers to assess what each has to offer and the benefits both can bring. We even have a number of customers that choose to run both side by side delivering a highly flexible and secure working platform to some while others that still require it can have the processing power at the desktop.
