Interlink Cloud Blog

Windows Virtual Desktop – How Businesses Are Seeing Value

Written by Steven Braunschweiger | May 10, 2021 4:00:00 AM

Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) is a comprehensive desktop and app virtualization service running in the Cloud. Read on to learn more, and how it applies and benefits you!

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What is Windows Virtual Desktop?

Windows Virtual Desktop is the only virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) that delivers simplified management, multi-session Windows 10, optimizations for Microsoft 365 Apps, and support for Remote Desktop Services (RDS) environments. Multi-session Windows 10 allows multiple concurrent users to connect – meaning that Windows 10 may be used as a remote desktop session host server. This technology saves organizations money, time, and reduces risk through secure desktops from any device – allowing employees to stay productive and secure from anywhere.

In contrast, it was previously only available when using a Windows Server operating system. Organizations are now able to virtualize Microsoft 365 Apps and optimize it to run in multi-user sessions. Additionally, manage your environment using built-in delegated access to assign roles and collect diagnostics to understand various configuration or user errors – and use Azure’s diagnostics service to troubleshoot errors.

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure makes governance and device management easier through user management and identity, network policies, and image, app, and profile management. Additionally, control Virtual machine sizing, user density, and scaling policies. To read more on Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure, check out our blog article.

Use Cases of Windows Virtual Desktop

Security and Regulation:

Windows Virtual Desktop can help organizations in several ways. For example, data can be made to stay within the Virtual Desktop environment. Using compliance controls, end-users such as sales representatives or business executives can't download data from the Virtual Desktop environment to their machine and allows for end-users to Bring-Your-Own-Device. This compliance control is very popular in banking or finance organizations, but it is crucial for all organizations to control data and security. 

Remote Workers:

Similarly, remote workers who need powerful access – such as CAD designers or producers, who need to work from home are able to easily and don’t have to depend on high-powered workstations. Virtual Desktops are also ideal for contractors who need access to an organization’s data/information, but security features are needed, and the data cannot be taken away.

IT Departments/Developers:

IT departments can control testing new software through Virtual Desktop. Since software sits on VMware – if it doesn’t go well or possibly corrupts a file system – IT can just create a new machine. This is especially a great option for development teams in organizations.

Mergers and Acquisitions:

The acquisition of a company needs to happen fast. Don’t spend tons of money and time on new hardware – instead, take advantage of Virtual Desktop and gain access to each other’s infrastructure as you collaborate to merge. Additionally, take advantage of the shared image gallery! When an organization builds a shared desktop off of an image – they can have different versions and modifications of that image for various departments or end-user groups to use.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

When it comes to disaster recovery and business continuity – Virtual Desktops can make or break a company’s success. Secure desktops from any device allow employees to use a personal computer at home while maintaining security, controls, and ensuring devices remain updated and patched.

Flexible Workforce

Between short-term or seasonal workers and large numbers of employees needing to work from home, WVD allows businesses to save time and money by not having to supply them with company-owned laptops/devices. Adjustments can be made on personal devices for accessibility or security – allowing for more effective onboarding and flexible work environments.

IT Cost Savings

Save money by not relying on expensive devices/licensing and software. Instead, remotely centralize maintenance and provision for your workforce. Windows Virtual Desktop allows for cost savings on hardware, licensing, and long-term maintenance of devices.

How Can Interlink Help?

Knowing and understanding fully which route is best for your organization can be tricky – and so can migrations! If your organization is looking into Azure and wants to take advantage of Windows Virtual Desktop, Interlink can guide your organization in the right direction. We are one of the few partners who can offer this. Interlink has received Microsoft’s Specialization in Windows Virtual Desktop.

Contact us for more information, questions, or guidance on your Azure investments today