For This Assignment, You Will Explore The Provided Scenario ✓ Solved

For this assignment you will explore the scenario provided

For this assignment, you will explore the scenario provided below and based on your reading describe the type of virtual desktop environment you would set up. Your plan should include: 1) Details as to what types of virtual desktops you would recommend and why 2) What other infrastructure might be needed to support these desktops and why 3) What client hardware you would recommend and why 4) What virtual desktop platform you would suggest and why. Make sure with each recommendation you provide some justification as to why your choice is best.

Paper For Above Instructions

In the realm of modern IT infrastructures, virtual desktop environments (VDEs) play a crucial role in enabling flexible, secure, and manageable computer ecosystems. As remote work becomes more prevalent and organizations seek efficient use of resources, setting up a robust virtual desktop environment is essential. This paper will outline recommendations for the types of virtual desktops to deploy, the necessary supporting infrastructure, client hardware recommendations, and suitable virtual desktop platforms.

Types of Virtual Desktops

There are two primary types of virtual desktops that organizations can consider: Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) and Desktop as a Service (DaaS). VDI involves hosting desktop environments on a company's servers within a data center, while DaaS provides virtual desktops hosted on the cloud.

In a typical organization, I would recommend a hybrid approach—utilizing both VDI and DaaS. The VDI model would primarily serve employees who require high levels of control and customization over their desktops, like developers and graphic designers. The DaaS option could serve other employees who need more flexibility and ease of access, as it allows them to connect from anywhere with internet access. This combination provides a balance between control and flexibility, ensuring that diverse user needs are met.

Supporting Infrastructure

To support the recommended virtual desktops, certain infrastructure components are necessary. First, robust server hardware is essential—this includes high-performance CPUs, ample RAM, and fast storage solutions such as SSDs. The need for storage will vary based on user requirements, so opting for scalable storage solutions can help accommodate growth.

Networking infrastructure is also critical for ensuring smooth connectivity. A quality network should include high-speed internet connections, reliable routers, and potentially a VPN for secure connectivity. Load balancers may be required to distribute traffic efficiently, ensuring that users experience minimal downtime and consistent performance. This setup would help maintain system performance even as organizational demands increase.

Client Hardware Recommendations

When considering client hardware, the recommendation largely depends on the type of tasks users will perform. For a VDI environment, I recommend mid-range to high-end desktop computers with enough processing power and RAM to handle the virtualization layer, especially for users performing graphics-intensive tasks. These machines should ideally have at least 16 GB of RAM and dedicated graphics cards for optimal performance.

For DaaS users, lightweight laptops or thin clients would be suitable, as these devices generally rely on cloud resources rather than on-board hardware. Devices such as Chromebooks or low-cost laptops with at least 8 GB of RAM and good wireless connectivity would enable efficient operation in a DaaS environment. The use of thin clients can also minimize hardware costs and management overhead, as they simplify endpoint management significantly.

Virtual Desktop Platforms

Selecting the right virtual desktop platform is crucial for a successful implementation. I recommend VMware Horizon for the VDI solution and Citrix Workspace for the DaaS option. VMware Horizon offers advanced features such as instant cloning and applications virtualization, which enhance user experience and management ease, making it a suitable choice for high-demand environments.

On the other hand, Citrix Workspace provides an incredibly flexible environment for DaaS, allowing organizations to scale their desktop and application delivery according to current needs. Both platforms offer robust security options, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected regardless of the desktop type in use. Furthermore, both solutions support a wide range of devices, allowing users the flexibility to connect from various endpoints as necessary.

Conclusion

Designing a virtual desktop environment requires careful consideration of the various components that interact within it. By implementing a hybrid model leveraging both VDI and DaaS, organizations can cater to diverse user requirements while maximizing resource efficiency. The investment in robust infrastructure, appropriate client hardware, and the right platform not only enhances the user experience but also safeguards organizational data and supports future growth.

References

  • VMware. (2023). VMware Horizon. Retrieved from https://www.vmware.com/products/horizon.html
  • Citrix. (2023). Citrix Workspace. Retrieved from https://www.citrix.com/products/citrix-workspace/
  • Gartner. (2023). Market Guide for Desktop as a Service. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/3892838-market-guide-for-desktop-as-a-service
  • Forbes. (2023). The Future of Virtual Desktops in IT Companies. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/06/25/the-future-of-virtual-desktops-in-it-companies/
  • PCMag. (2023). Best Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-solutions
  • TechTarget. (2023). Understanding Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). Retrieved from https://www.techtarget.com/search/query?q=virtual+desktop+infrastructure
  • Microsoft. (2023). Windows Virtual Desktop. Retrieved from https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/services/virtual-desktop/
  • Red Hat. (2023). The Future of Workspace solutions. Retrieved from https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/desktop-virtualization
  • IDC. (2023). Worldwide Virtual Desktop Market Shares. Retrieved from https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS47683620
  • Systran. (2023). Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Explained. Retrieved from https://www.systransoft.com/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi/

Related Assignments