Barney's Blog

Blog archive

The Great Desktop Virtualization Debate

Desktop virtualization has been around for...I don't know. About at least 20 years. But there's a new debate over VDI, or Virtual Desktop Infrastructure.

Citrix has long had server-based thin client computing, so VDI isn't the first stab at this kind of processing. Instead, VDI adds an additional layer of virtualization on top of the hardware so that each client has a more dedicated experience (virtual gurus, feel free to correct or polish my definition by writing [email protected]).

Of course, others do have differing definitions. What does VDI actually mean? The answer is murky and is discussed here.

VMware is getting deeper in the VDI game with the release of VMware View 3, a suite of tools that creates images for users' virtual desktops, allows users to work even when they're offline (a big shortcoming of thin clients), and also includes virtual printing.

Some believe VDI isn't ready for prime time. Here's what Citrix thinks.

Posted by Doug Barney on December 03, 2008


Featured

  • Microsoft Offers Support Extensions for Exchange 2016 and 2019

    Microsoft has introduced a paid Extended Security Update (ESU) program for on-premises Exchange Server 2016 and 2019, offering a crucial safety cushion as both versions near their Oct. 14, 2025 end-of-support date.

  • An image of planes flying around a globe

    2025 Microsoft Conference Calendar: For Partners, IT Pros and Developers

    Here's your guide to all the IT training sessions, partner meet-ups and annual Microsoft conferences you won't want to miss.

  • Notebook

    Microsoft Centers AI, Security and Partner Dogfooding at MCAPS

    Microsoft's second annual MCAPS for Partners event took place Tuesday, delivering a volley of updates and directives for its partners for fiscal 2026.

  • Microsoft Layoffs: AI Is the Obvious Elephant in the Room

    As Microsoft doubles down on an $80 billion bet on AI this fiscal year, its workforce reductions are drawing scrutiny over whether AI's ascent is quietly reshaping its human capital strategy, even as official messaging avoids drawing a direct line.

Most   Popular