What is desktop virtualization?

Many IT words and concept are used daily around us, some of which we know well, yet some remaining hazy in our understanding. It is good to occasionally delve deeper into one or the other and discover more.

Our subject today is one of a few bases for things remote. To answer the question: What is desktop virtualization , you have found the right page. And once explored, we will apply the matter to TSplus Remote Access for comparison.

What is Desktop Virtualization

Virtualization

is the process of creating a virtual version of something, such as a server, a storage device, an operating system or network resources. As a process, it allows multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical machine. In turn, each virtual machine shares the resources of that one physical computer across multiple environments. In the case of virtual machines and servers, separate virtual devices can run different operating systems and multiple applications. Amazingly, all this can take place on the same physical computer.

Desktop virtualization

is a technology that takes the desktop environment and associated application software. It then separates it from the physical client device that is used to access it. From there, it can project that environment to any other given device so long as they are networked, be it via cables, an intranet or the Internet. As a concept, virtualization is a key component of broader strategies such as virtualization and cloud computing.

Forms and Equivalents of Desktop Virtualization

There are several forms of desktop virtualization and sibling concepts which achieve the objective of a distant desktop, removed from its device. These each have their own features and use cases. Here are some brief overviews of the main types:

1. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is one of the most common forms of desktop virtualization. In VDI, desktop environments are hosted on a central server or servers and delivered over a network to end-user devices. Users interact with their desktop through a client interface. This itself can be a thin client (a lightweight, low-cost device), a zero client (a more minimalistic version of a thin client), or even a traditional PC, laptop or tablet.
2. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary component of Microsoft Windows operating systems. RDP allows a user to take control of a remote computer or virtual machine over a network connection. Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a shared service by which multiple users can access the server simultaneously. Nonetheless, each use separate sessions with their own credentials. TSplus Remote Access stands as the most affordable alternative to RDS.
3. Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) is a cloud service model in which a service provider delivers virtual desktops to end-users over the Internet. This type of service is usually billed on a subscription basis. DaaS is essentially VDI or RDS hosted in the cloud.
4. Client-Side Virtualization is an approach where the virtualization software runs on the user's device. The device hosts one or more virtual machines, each with its own operating system and applications. This allows for greater control and customization but requires more powerful client hardware.

Advantages of Desktop Virtualization:

The wide use of these technologies in IT has several reasons. Here are the main ones:

• Cost Savings and Hardware Efficiency - Virtualization reduces the need for regular expensive hardware upgrades, as the computing is done on a server. Likewise, it does away with prolific IT parks, since device use is maximized. Finally, it also increases hardware utilization: indeed, one server can host multiple virtual environments.
• Scalability - New virtual machines can easily be added, as needed, without purchasing new hardware.
• Centralized Management – With virtualized environments, it is easier for IT administrators to update, manage and maintain servers and desktops.
• Mobility - Users can access their desktops from any location, on any compatible device.
• Security - Data is stored on central servers, not on local devices, and updates and patches are done centrally by qualified IT personnel. This massively reduces the risks of hacking and data theft.
• Disaster Recovery - Simplifies backup and disaster recovery processes.

Disadvantages of Desktop Virtualisation:

• Network Dependency: Requires a stable and robust network connection.
• Complexity: Some forms can be complex to set up and manage, especially for larger organizations.
• Performance: Certain infrastructures may suffer from reduced performance, latency due to data-flow, peak-time related overloads, and more. High demanding graphics are commonly a type of problematic use.

TSplus Remote Access and Remote Desktops

Now, let us draw parallels with TSplus Remote Access software.

1. Hardware Efficiency: By making use of RDP and similar connectivity or even directly via a browser, TSplus enables remote desktops. TSplus Remote Access allows multiple users to both access data and access and use individual application on a single server, simultaneously. In effect, users share the server’s resources.
2. Isolation and Security: TSplus provides a secure connection to the server for each user, similar to how virtualization provides isolated environments. Login credentials, users and groups preferences and accesses, 2FA, SSL3.0 and more, all contribute to secure network usage. And TSplus also sells Advanced Security in complement to protect against various threats.
3. Scalability: TSplus supports scalability by allowing more users to connect to the server without the need for additional hardware. This aspect provides results akin to how virtual machines can be added to a physical server in a virtualized environment. Adding users, increasing your license, simply requires a few clicks or a call. You can purchase the capacity above or a bespoke amount.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: TSplus is a cost-effective alternative to traditional virtualization solutions and more expensive remote desktop services such as Citrix or Microsoft RDS. It minimizes the need for expensive infrastructure upgrades and it costs less than competitor software.
5. Ease of Access: TSplus enables remote access to applications and desktops from any location, much like virtualization allows access to virtual machines from different devices.
6. Speed and Fluidity: Because all the processing is done within the server, remote desktops and application publishing is lighter on information transit than virtual desktops. Indeed, what travels over Internet is the projected visual interface rather than software which then needs to process. This means a less memory hungry tool on the local device and faster, highly reactive interaction with the distant software and desktops.
7. Compatibility: As well as supporting other connection modes, TSplus is compatible with any RDP client. RDP is one of a number of protocols used to enable remote access.

Conclusion on What Desktop Virtualization Is and Our Alternative

In summary, while TSplus Remote Access is not a virtualization solution per se, it offers similar benefits for a much lower price tag compared to the competition. Desktop virtualization is widely used in enterprise environments, since it enables businesses to streamline IT management, enhance security and provide flexible, location-independent access to corporate resources.

TSplus Remote Access brings resource efficiency, security and scalability to your infrastructure, plus, quite importantly, great cost savings. Our software licenses are good value-for-money because TSplus Remote Access allows multiple users to access a centralized server environment remotely. Not only that, but businesses can publish their applications to the Web, including legacy software. So why wait any longer to make the best of our affordable licensing.

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