What is VDI?

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is the hosting of entire workstations in a centralized environment, usually on servers located in a datacenter or cloud. Instead of using a local physical computer, each user connects to a virtual desktop via the internet or an internal network. This approach simplifies the management of the IT fleet?: Resources, applications and security are centrally managed, significantly reducing maintenance and equipment costs.

When talking about IT VDI deployments, it is not uncommon to see mixed configurations. For example, some companies rely on a Windows hypervisor, while others may prefer a Linux VPS to host and virtualize their workstations. In the case of a Windows VDI, users access a remotely hosted Microsoft Windows operating system with all the business applications they need without having to install anything on their local machine. This flexibility of approach allows to adapt the virtualization to the diversity of uses and tools present in the organization.

Key benefits of VDI for businesses

Flexibility and mobility

With VDI, users can access their work environment from any device (PC, tablet, smartphone) wherever they are. This facilitates telework, business travel and remote collaboration.

Enhanced security

• Data centralization : Information remains on the server, not on each local machine, which reduces the risk of theft or loss.
• Access control : Security policies (authentication, firewall, encryption) can be applied uniformly to all virtual machines.

Simplified management and maintenance

• Centralized updates : Install or patch an application once to have it impact all virtual desktops.
• Less hardware constraints : User terminals can be lighter (thin clients), reducing renewal costs.

Cost optimization

Although the infrastructure required for VDI may be an initial investment, it often offers a lower TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) over the long term, thanks to centralized management and reduced hardware outages on the user side.

Setting up a VDI: the points to consider

1. Needs analysis
   Define the number of users, their business applications, their workload and activity peaks (e.g. accounting close period).
2. Server and network capacity
   Make sure that the server platform (CPU, RAM, storage) supports the volume of virtual machines, and that the network bandwidth is sufficient for a smooth use.
3. Security and compliance
   Protect virtual desktops (antivirus, updates, multi-factor authentication) and comply with current regulations (GDPR, industry standards).
4. Backup Strategy and PRA
   Plan regular backups of your VDI and a recovery plan to deal with possible outages or cyber attacks.

The UNIVIRTUAL offer for your VDI

Based on our virtual machine solution, UNIVIRTUAL supports you in the implementation of a VDI adapted to your environment:

• Resource consolidation : We assess your computing, storage and licensing needs to deploy high-performance virtual desktops.
• Advanced protection : Firewall, encryption, 24/7 monitoring, outsourced backups... everything is designed to secure your Windows or Linux VDI.
• Personalized support: From initial audit to team training, our experts help you every step of the way to ensure a successful deployment.

The concrete benefits of a VDI at UNIVIRTUAL

1. Operational agility : Your employees can access their business applications from anywhere, facilitating remote work and multi-site collaboration.
2. Scalability : Easily add or remove virtual workstations based on growth or seasonality of your business.
3. Reduced overall cost : Less maintenance on physical workstations, rapid deployment of updates, and the ability to extend the life of customer hardware.
4. Responsive support : Our customer service is available to resolve incidents, adjust configuration or provide optimization advice.

Conclusion

VDI is a strategic lever to modernize your workstation, improve the mobility of your teams and strengthen the security of your data. By entrusting your IT VDI to UNIVIRTUAL, you benefit from a proven expertise and reliable infrastructure to propel your activities towards more efficiency and serenity.

You want to discuss your VDI project?
Contact UNIVIRTUAL for a customized study of your needs and full support in the implementation of your VDI Windows or Linux.