A virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is a centralized desktop virtualization environment that hosts virtual desktops on a centralized server in a data center or cloud and delivers them to users on demand. With VDI, the entire desktop, including the operating system, applications, data and settings, are delivered as a virtual machine to any device. This allows employees to access full virtual desktops from anywhere using any device without having to install or run any applications locally.

Benefits of VDI

VDI provides several key benefits to organizations:

Improved Security

VDI helps secure corporate data and systems since all applications and data reside on centralized, secure servers rather than on individual employee devices. This eliminates the risk of data loss or leaks if an employee's device is lost, stolen or hacked. Access to virtual desktops can also be granted or revoked centrally.

Increased Flexibility

Employees can access their full desktop environment and all applications from any device like laptops, tablets or thin clients. This allows them to work from anywhere rather than being tied to specific devices or locations. Virtual desktops also make it easy to quickly provision or de-provision desktops.

Simplified Manageability

Since Virtual Desktop Infrastructure deployments are centralized on servers, IT teams spend less time on tasks like patching, updating and maintaining individual desktops. Desktop images can also be rolled back to a previous snapshot in case of issues. This streamlines management and reduces overhead.

Optimized Resources

With thin/zero clients or browser access, VDI eliminates the need for high-powered, expensive desktop PCs for each employee. It optimizes usage of servers, storage, memory and CPUs. Organizations gain better control and flexibility to scale resources up or down as business needs change.