What Is a Virtual Desktop? 

A virtual desktop is a technology that allows users to access a computer desktop environment remotely through a network. Instead of running a full operating system and applications on a physical computer, virtual desktops run on a virtual machine hosted on a server or data center. Users can access their virtual desktops from any device that has internet access, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. 

Virtual desktops work by using a hypervisor, which is software that creates and manages virtual machines. The hypervisor runs on a physical server or data center and allocates resources such as CPU, memory, and storage to virtual machines. Each virtual machine has its own operating system and applications, and users can interact with their virtual desktops using remote desktop platforms. 

When a user logs in to their virtual desktop, they are presented with a desktop environment that looks and behaves like a traditional desktop operating system such as Windows or macOS. They can open applications, browse files, and perform other tasks just as they would on a physical computer. The main difference is that all the computing resources are provided by the server, rather than the local device, which allows for greater flexibility and scalability. 

Virtual desktops are often used by organizations that need to provide secure, remote access to sensitive data and applications. They can also be useful for individuals who want to access their desktop environment from multiple devices without having to carry a physical computer with them. 

What is virtual desktop service (VDS)? 

A virtual desktop is a software imitation of a hardware device using either a physical or virtual machine hosted remotely in the cloud or on premises. It is a cloud-based service that enables access to a virtual desktop environment from any device with an internet connection. Users can access their applications, data, and files from any device, anywhere in a secure, and remote environment. Users can customize their desktop environment, allowing them to tailor their experience to their specific needs. 

How to use a virtual desktop? 

To use virtual desktops, users must follow these steps below. 

1.  Configure the virtual desktop application with the desired settings – the operating system, applications, and user accounts.
2. Connect to the virtual desktop from a remote device through web browsers, mobile devices, and remote desktop client.
3. Connect and you will be able to access the applications and files stored on the virtual desktop. Your virtual desktop can access the internet, run programs, and store files.

What are the benefits of a virtual desktop? 

The benefits of virtual desktops are manifold. They include:

1. Increased Security: Virtual desktops are more secure than physical desktops since they are hosted in the cloud and so data are stored in the cloud.
2. Cost Savings: Virtual desktops need minimum maintenance, hardware, and they can be scaled up or down as needed. Thus, it saves you money unlike physical desktops.
3. Flexibility: Virtual desktops are accessible from anywhere anytime with an internet connection

 What are the types of virtual desktops? 

 Depending upon the user interface, virtual desktops can be host-based or client-based: 

1. Host-based: They are virtual machines hosting an operating system where users can log in remotely. It also allows private desktop personalization.
2. Client-based: They are virtual machines where the operating system is executed locally on the endpoint device. It does not require network connection for the user to access the desktop. 

Why is virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) useful? 

In organizations, VDI is important because it is a common setup for online workstation deployment where a virtual machine monitor (VMM) creates and runs virtual machines. These VMs themselves run the desktops for the client business’s users too.