While many people may want to tap into the many benefits of using a virtual desktop, they may have no idea how to choose the best virtualization software package that best suits their business. The first step is to understand what a virtual desktop is, and how it works.
What is a virtual desktop service?
Virtual desktop service is a desktop virtualization technology that centralizes multiple computers to share resources and applications in a single hardware environment. This means that you can run apps on a different operating system on another computer right from your device, which you have turned into a virtual desktop.
There are several vendors of virtual desktop solutions available for businesses from which to choose. You will need to evaluate them before purchasing a suitable virtual desktop service. The best virtual software is one that meets the needs of your business.
How to choose the best software
A successful Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) can only be implemented through careful planning. One of the critical pillars of a good virtual desktop service is competent virtual desktop software. So, let's dive straight into some of the considerations you should make when shopping for the best virtual desktop software.
Features and functionality
With a wide variety of virtual desktop software comes a wide range of features. Your personal preferences and desktop usage will determine the importance of these features. For example, you will need to determine whether you will be using Windows exclusively in your business, or may need to incorporate other operating systems. Also, find out if you will require advanced features, such as bi-directional copy and paste.
Some virtual desktop software allows you to run different operating systems, while others restrict you to one. Some further support multiple user log-ins to the company's active directory. These considerations will help you get a capable virtual desktop software that meets all the needs of your business.
Your hardware and operating system
Even the best software will be useless on incompatible hardware. Your first step should be to confirm that the virtual desktop software you intend to use can run on your hardware.
The operating system is another essential requirement to run any virtual desktop software. For example, if you are on Mac OS, you can use Parallels to run Windows, Linux, and even Chrome OS on your Mac.
Ease of use
Since the virtual desktop interface will probably not be used by IT professionals, it is imperative to choose a virtual desktop software that will allow anyone with basic computer literacy to operate. However, this might come at the expense of some advanced features. You may have to strike a balance between features and ease of use depending on the level of skills of end-users you are targeting.
Customization
Find out if the virtual desktop software allows your IT support software to expand the classes of supported clients. Also determine whether it will limit the users to a few fixed desktops, or will allow them to add and customize their own. Customization is an important aspect of any successful virtual desktop software. It will also enable easier expansion of the virtual desktop infrastructure when the need arises.
Price
It is vital to consider the value you get for your money. There are a few free, open-source virtual desktop software, but they are lacking in features, performance, or customization. These will work fine if you only need the basic features and have no plans to expand your infrastructure. But you can get a premium virtual desktop at a good discount with annual as opposed to monthly subscriptions on paid virtual desktop software.
Conclusion
Virtual desktop infrastructure is an excellent addition to any business. If you're looking for the best virtual desktop with all the features your business needs, you may consider Parallels because of its easier integration with Windows, versatility, and friendly cost.