We define virtualisation as having three levels:
Application virtualisation
This really should be the starting point for any migration to VDI or Server Based computing model. Through the use of the various application virtualisation tools available the following benefits can be delivered:
- Greater user mobility as applications follow users
- Reduced ownership costs through proactive licence management
- The ability to reduce support costs and time required to deploy applications
- Greater OS stability
- Standardisation of application configuration
Desktop virtualisation
Desktop virtualisation falls into two categories, (SBC) server based computing based on the traditional published desktop model and VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure). We urge our clients to consider server based computing, the technology in this space has evolved massively in the last few years and as such in most organisations will service most of their needs. VDI is a fantastic approach for those users with high-end requirements where the resources of centralised server can be leveraged to improve the user experience.
There are benefits to both approaches and a blend is in our experience the way to go, this is by no means exhaustive:
- Reduction in desktop hardware costs through thin client usage or use of shared server devices
- Remote access is easily provided in the above models, which will reduce DR, BCP, home working costs
- Security, the environments can be locked down with tight auditing control, this is great for secure environments or offshore development to protect your IP
- Improved environmental footprint
- Centralised control of desktop standards
- Easy to flex up or down as your organisation grows or shrinks
Server Virtualisation
Virtualisation in the server space is relatively mature. Most organisations have investigated the possibility of using virtual servers. Most however haven’t scaled appropriately or paid sufficient attention to the processes for setup and ongoing management of virtual servers. The benefits are significant:
- Potentially massive reduction in rack, power, cabling and air handling costs in the data centre
- Maximisation of the utilisation of the resources on the installed server estate
- Reduced time to deliver new server environments without the capital outlay and environment costs
- Advanced DR possibilities