Virtual and remote desktop strategies
When an organization elects to use remote or virtual desktops, it must make many strategic decisions. These decisions include how to deliver the applications and desktops, what endpoints users use and which vendors to choose for various tools.
Top Stories
-
Tip
24 Jun 2025
How to configure VNC services with macOS
While there are many technologies that allow for remote desktop access and management, IT administrators can use VNC on Macs to great effect. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Jun 2025
How to deploy Windows LAPS for tighter security
Microsoft improved the feature that automates local administrator password management in Windows Server and the client OS. This tutorial explains the updates and how to set it up. Continue Reading
-
Tip
11 Jun 2025
What is the default port for RDP and how do you change it?
When an admin needs to change the RDP port from its default to a different one, they can perform this process and many others via Windows Registry Editor. Continue Reading
-
Definition
06 Jun 2025
What is app virtualization (application virtualization)?
App virtualization (application virtualization) is the installation of an application on one computer and enabling an end user's client computer to remotely access that application. Continue Reading
-
Tip
16 May 2025
How to create a custom Windows 11 image with Hyper-V
When administrators can deploy Windows systems in many ways, creating a custom VM with Hyper-V enables them to efficiently deploy a copy of one desktop to a whole user base. Continue Reading
-
Answer
07 May 2025
What is a roaming profile, and how does it work?
Though newer tools are available, a Microsoft roaming profile is a simple and time-tested way to manage a user's profile across physical and virtual desktop environments. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 May 2025
Running GPU passthrough for a virtual desktop with Hyper-V
IT needs to deliver quality to UX for desktops users, and sometimes edge cases arise. For example, they might need to configure GPU passthrough for power user virtual desktops. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 May 2025
How to troubleshoot an RDP remote session stuck at configuring
Admins forced to troubleshoot a Microsoft RDP session stuck at configuration must understand these key steps to fix their issue and be able to adapt them to their environment. Continue Reading
-
Tip
25 Apr 2025
How to create and manage Azure Virtual Desktop golden images
With the help of golden images, virtual desktop administrators can deliver a secure and up-to-date system with all that end users need. Continue Reading
-
Tip
23 Apr 2025
9 Azure Virtual Desktop best practices for management
When an organization runs Azure Virtual Desktop, it needs to evaluate its internal processes and follow these best practices to deliver an efficient environment to end users. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 Apr 2025
How to set up and use Azure Virtual Desktop
Azure Virtual Desktop helps organizations deliver virtual desktops and applications to users, while keeping management within the Microsoft ecosystem. Learn how to get started. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Apr 2025
How to fix keyboard connection issues on a remote desktop
When the keyboard for a remote desktop isn't working, sys admins will need to run through these steps to find the root cause of the problem and address it. Continue Reading
-
Definition
10 Apr 2025
What is a remote desktop and how does it work?
A remote desktop is a program or an operating system feature that allows a user to connect to a computer in another location, see that computer's desktop and interact with it as if it were local. Continue Reading
-
Answer
07 Apr 2025
Comparing virtual desktops vs. remote desktops
Virtual desktops and remote desktops do some of the same things, but they are quite different when it comes to hosting and management. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Mar 2025
What is a virtual hard disk (VHD)?
A virtual hard disk (VHD) is a disk image file format for storing the entire contents of a computer's hard drive. Continue Reading
-
Feature
14 Mar 2025
Understanding persistent vs. nonpersistent VDI
Should you go with persistent or nonpersistent VDI? The choice often comes down to storage. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Mar 2025
How to fix 7 common remote desktop connection problems
When the connection between a desktop and its host fails, it's time to do some remote desktop troubleshooting. Check firewalls, security certificates and more if a remote desktop is not working. Continue Reading
-
Tip
25 Feb 2025
Understanding virtual desktops vs. virtual machines
Virtual machines are similar to virtual desktops, but they have some key differences. They rely on one another to host and deliver resources to end users. Continue Reading
-
Answer
25 Feb 2025
How do virtual desktops work?
Virtual desktops and the underlying virtual machines are a critical part of many organization's end-user technology stacks, so admins need to understand the basics of how they work. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Feb 2025
How to access and interact with the RDP Task Manager
The Task Manager allows IT administrators to perform some limited management tasks, regardless of whether the session is a local Windows OS or a remote desktop. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Jan 2025
How to change the password of an RDP session
Password expiration policies are key to maintaining data security, so users need easy access to a password change utility whether they are on a local PC or a remote desktop. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Jan 2025
How to enable RDP remotely with several different methods
Desktop administrators may need to enable remote access to a Windows desktop for an end user without physical access to the desktop. Learn how to approach this scenario. Continue Reading
-
Tip
08 Jan 2025
What are RDP file settings and how do they work?
RDP sessions may seem pretty universal, but IT administrators should make sure they're familiar with all the customizations that RDP files allow. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Dec 2024
6 steps to fix a black screen on a Windows 11 remote desktop
Remote desktops are a common technology to provide access to Windows systems, but these types of desktops are susceptible to errors such a full black screen. Learn how to fix this. Continue Reading
-
Tip
04 Dec 2024
Understand the limitations of running Hyper-V in Windows 11
There are many reasons to use Hyper-V on Windows 11 instead of hosting on Windows Server, but there are some key limitations to keep in mind before deploying this technology. Continue Reading
-
Tutorial
26 Nov 2024
How to get the right Hyper-V window size in Windows 11
When users work from a Hyper-V VM session in Windows 11, they need to ensure a properly sized window to avoid UX and functionality issues with the session and business apps. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 Nov 2024
How to enable and manage Windows 11 Hyper-V
Administrators can use Hyper-V virtual machines for numerous reasons. Windows administrators should follow these steps to create new VMs no matter what their intended use is. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
28 Oct 2024
Omnissa-CrowdStrike union reunites management and security
Organizations have growing security and management needs, so partnerships between vendors such as the Omnissa-CrowdStrike partnership provide necessary synergy for IT staff. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is TCP/IP?
TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol and is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. Continue Reading
-
Tip
16 Aug 2024
What is the difference between Windows 10 vs. Windows 10 IoT?
There are several key differences between Windows IoT and a regular Windows desktop OS, so organizations must compare these systems to ensure they deploy the right OS. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Jul 2024
Comparing VMware Horizon vs. Azure Virtual Desktop
Two of the top desktop virtualization technologies are Azure Virtual Desktop and Omnissa Horizon -- formerly from VMware. Learn how to evaluate and choose one of these platforms. Continue Reading
-
Answer
17 Jul 2024
Can a virtual machine infect its host with a virus?
Admins and users who work on virtual machines might believe they are fully secure, but that's not the case. Learn how VM hosts can get infected and how to secure against VM attacks. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Jun 2024
6 steps for when remote desktop credentials are not working
Without a solid connection, remote desktops simply cannot function. When there are remote desktop connection issues, IT administrators should follow these steps. Continue Reading
-
Answer
18 Jun 2024
Can a virtual machine get a virus like a desktop can?
There is a perception that virtual machines are completely secure and immune to all malware, but the reality of virtual machine security is much more complicated. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
06 Jun 2024
By acquiring Cameyo, Google fully commits to enterprise EUC
With the acquisition of Cameyo, Google puts ChromeOS into consideration in enterprises alongside thin clients, repurposed PCs or even laptops running Windows. Continue Reading
-
Definition
01 May 2024
remote access
Remote access is the ability for an authorized person to access a computer or network from a geographical distance through a network connection. Continue Reading
-
Tip
24 Apr 2024
Fix Windows 11 remote desktop credentials that don't work
IT administrators should be ready to deal with credentials issues for remote desktops, as they are major hindrances to productivity. Learn what steps admins can take. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 Apr 2024
What to do when a Windows 11 remote desktop keeps freezing
While recent issues with Windows 11 remote desktops freezing are likely tied to a faulty Windows update, admins need to know how to prevent these frozen remote desktops from happening. Continue Reading
-
Tip
19 Apr 2024
How to deploy and configure xrdp on Linux
When organizations run Linux, they may need to link those systems to Windows via Remote Desktop Protocol. Learn how to set this up and what configuration options there are. Continue Reading
-
Feature
29 Mar 2024
How to pick the best thin client OS for an organization
Organizations that need thin clients may want to deploy thin client OSes to make management and local apps easier. Find out how to pick the right thin client OS. Continue Reading
-
Feature
11 Mar 2024
Understanding the basics of Windows 365 Government
Windows 365 Government isn't available to all Microsoft customers, but organizations such as governments and privileged contractors can benefit from this specialized offering. Continue Reading
-
Definition
05 Mar 2024
desktop as a service (DaaS)
Desktop as a service (DaaS) is a cloud computing offering in which a third party hosts the back end of a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) deployment. Continue Reading
-
Definition
28 Feb 2024
desktop virtualization
Desktop virtualization is the concept of isolating a logical operating system (OS) instance from the client used to access it. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
27 Feb 2024
First thoughts on VMware EUC sale to private equity firm KKR
Broadcom's sale of VMware EUC to private equity firm KKR will likely mean big changes, but the deal shouldn't be compared to Citrix's sale to Vista. Here's why. Continue Reading
-
News
26 Feb 2024
Broadcom to sell VMware EUC division to KKR for $3.8B
Customers that pair VMware's hypervisor with Horizon and Workspace One desktops might feel licensing jitters, but the deal could lead to more flexibility. Continue Reading
-
Tip
26 Feb 2024
Can users run Windows 365 on Android and iOS?
While laptops and PCs are the most common business endpoints to access desktops from, some users might benefit from delivering desktops to mobile endpoints such as iOS and Android. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
09 Feb 2024
11 more alternative desktop and app virtualization vendors
Many organizations turn to the biggest desktop virtualization vendors for size and scale reasons, but smaller vendors that occupy a niche are worth knowing as well. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Feb 2024
What types of management are available for thin client OSes?
Thin client OSes present opportunities to run virtual desktop environments more efficiently, but they come with management decisions and challenges as well. Continue Reading
-
Tip
06 Feb 2024
What purpose do thin client OSes serve?
Thin clients can act as hubs for virtual desktop OSes or run their own OSes locally. These OSes are made to support a centralized computing model, which offers many benefits. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
08 Dec 2023
Broadcom intends to divest VMware EUC: What's next?
Broadcom officially intends to divest itself of VMware EUC, leaving questions about where the end user computing division and VMware's desktop technologies might land. Continue Reading
-
News
27 Nov 2023
AWS' remote work gambit: Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client
AWS rolls out a computer in a Fire TV Cube box. The $195 device gives enterprises an inexpensive end-user hardware option for remote workers and promises tighter data security. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
27 Nov 2023
What happens to VMware EUC and Carbon Black under Broadcom?
Following the acquisition of VMware, there are a number of directions Broadcom could go with VMware's end user computing and Carbon Black business units. Continue Reading
-
Feature
20 Nov 2023
6 benefits of desktop virtualization for businesses
There are several ways to manage and deliver desktops to end users, and a few of them involve desktop virtualization. Find out what the major benefits of virtualization are. Continue Reading
-
Definition
08 Nov 2023
graphics processing unit (GPU)
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a computer chip that renders graphics and images by performing rapid mathematical calculations. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 Sep 2023
Maximize application performance with VDI optimization tools
IT administrators should look into different VDI optimization tools to reduce the amount of resources used and maximize performance. Learn all about these tools and their benefits. Continue Reading
-
Definition
05 Sep 2023
remote desktop connection broker
A remote desktop connection broker is software that allows a remote desktop client to connect to a remote desktop host or server. Continue Reading
-
Tip
31 Aug 2023
How to use Terraform to configure Azure Virtual Desktop
There are several ways to configure and test an Azure Virtual Desktop environment, but Terraform has some key strengths that can help IT improve their AVD management. Continue Reading
-
Answer
21 Jul 2023
How can IT identify and manage VDI usage fluctuations?
Unpredictable user behavior and boot storms can cause VDI resource usage fluctuations throughout the day. IT can take steps to identify and curtail the effects of these changes. Continue Reading
-
Definition
20 Jul 2023
Citrix XenApp
Citrix XenApp, now called Citrix Virtual Apps, was a product that extends Microsoft Remote Desktop Session Host (formerly known as Terminal Services) desktop sessions and applications to users through the Citrix HDX protocol. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Jul 2023
How to avoid VDI overprovisioning
IT must allocate VDI resources in a balanced way to prevent VDI overprovisioning. Explore common overprovisioning mistakes and how to properly allocate resources. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Jun 2023
How to configure multiple monitors for remote desktop use
A remote desktop workstation may require specific configurations for the local hardware, including options to set up multiple monitors on an RDP desktop. Continue Reading
-
Definition
02 Jun 2023
desktop
A desktop is a computer display area that represents the kinds of objects found on top of a physical desk, including documents, phone books, telephones, reference sources, writing and drawing tools, and project folders. Continue Reading
-
Definition
31 May 2023
Parallels
Parallels is a software company best-known for its software that allows users to run Microsoft Windows systems on Apple Macintosh computers. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 May 2023
Mitigate VDI performance issues with resource management
To improve user experience, IT can take advantage of virtual desktop configurations that limit resource usage. This frees up resources for all desktops to perform basic functions. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
17 May 2023
Is it time for a new name for thin clients?
The thin client market has evolved significantly to the point where these endpoints aren't all that thin. Find out the case for renaming these devices to 'rich clients.' Continue Reading
-
Definition
11 May 2023
telecommuting
Telecommuting allows an employee to complete work assignments from outside the traditional workplace using telecommunications tools such as email, phone, chat and video apps. Continue Reading
-
Tip
11 May 2023
What are RDS CALs and how should IT use them?
IT teams rely on CALs to ensure that RDS users are properly licensed for their sessions, so they should know how to work with them and what different options they present. Continue Reading
-
Definition
09 May 2023
USB redirection
USB redirection is a technology that enables an end user to plug an external device into a USB port on their endpoint and access the device from within a remote desktop or application. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
02 May 2023
Calculating sustainability and emissions for VDI and DaaS
Though VDI and DaaS are both desktop virtualization services, their sustainability can differ significantly, so business leaders should learn how to calculate their emissions. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
28 Apr 2023
Forecasting VDI trends and the future of the market
VDI was once thought to be the future of managing desktops, but at times it can feel like a relic. However, VDI has certain characteristics that ensure it's here to stay. Continue Reading
-
Answer
25 Apr 2023
Pros and cons of building up VDI in the current market
Determining how to host and manage desktops for an entire organization is a major task, so business leaders need to understand the modern VDI market before making this decision. Continue Reading
-
Definition
12 Apr 2023
Microsoft App-V (Microsoft Application Virtualization)
Microsoft Application Virtualization (App-V) is an application virtualization client that makes an application available to end users without installing it on a personal computer (PC). Continue Reading
-
Definition
12 Apr 2023
Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS)
Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) is a feature of the Windows Server operating system (OS) that extends end users' single sign-on (SSO) access to applications and systems outside the corporate firewall. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Apr 2023
VMware vs. Citrix: Which is better for your organization?
VMware and Citrix both offer useful virtualization tools, but each one has its pros and cons. Explore the features and other factors that can help you decide between them. Continue Reading
-
Definition
07 Mar 2023
virtual server
A virtual server, also known as a virtual machine (VM), is a partitioned space inside a real server and is transparent to users, replicating the functionality of a dedicated physical server. Continue Reading
-
Tip
02 Mar 2023
Fixing issues with a computer mouse on a remote desktop
Running a remote desktop comes with all sorts of hardware considerations for IT to address, including how the desktop interacts with local hardware, such as a computer mouse. Continue Reading
-
Tip
23 Feb 2023
Azure Virtual Desktop sizing guide for IT
Deploying Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) can provide synergy across Microsoft services, but there are decisions that IT must make to determine the capacity of the environment. Continue Reading
-
Definition
15 Feb 2023
EG Innovations
EG Innovations is an end-user experience and infrastructure monitoring software vendor best known for its EG Enterprise product. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Jan 2023
QWERTY keyboard
The QWERTY (pronounced KWEHR-tee) keyboard is the standard typewriter and computer keyboard in countries that use a Latin-based alphabet. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Jan 2023
Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH)
Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) is a role in Remote Desktop Services (RDS). Continue Reading
-
Definition
12 Jan 2023
Remote Desktop Services (RDS)
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is an umbrella term for features of Microsoft Windows Server that allow users to remotely access graphical desktops and Windows applications. Continue Reading
-
Feature
28 Dec 2022
Understanding Azure Virtual Desktop management and storage
In this Q&A, author Ryan Mangan discusses best practices for Azure Virtual Desktop management, the importance of storage and more from his book, 'Mastering Azure Virtual Desktop.' Continue Reading
-
Quiz
20 Dec 2022
Test your Azure Virtual Desktop storage management skills
Use these questions to test how well you know the best practices for managing Azure Virtual Desktop storage. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
08 Dec 2022
The enterprise endpoint device market heading into 2023
Modern enterprise organizations have numerous options to choose from on the endpoint market. Learn about some of the main offerings that business leaders should consider. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Nov 2022
How to fix a remote desktop microphone that's not working
Hybrid work can create new technical issues for employees, and a remote desktop microphone not working is one frustrating possibility. Understand how to troubleshoot the problem. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Nov 2022
Enabling and supporting webcam use on remote desktops
When IT teams manage employees using remote desktops, they should make sure they can set up and troubleshoot peripheral devices, such as webcams. Continue Reading
-
Definition
18 Nov 2022
zero client
Zero client, also known as ultrathin client, is a server-based computing model in which the end user's computing device has no local storage. Continue Reading
-
Tip
17 Nov 2022
How do Citrix and VMware's on-premises VDI costs compare?
To compare Citrix vs. VMware for VDI pricing, organizations must understand how some of their features impact costs. Learn how aspects like the hypervisor factor into VDI pricing. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Oct 2022
Comparing the features of Citrix and VMware's VDI software
Citrix and VMware offer tools to simplify VDI deployment and management for IT. Understand the key differences between Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops and VMware Horizon. Continue Reading
-
News
27 Sep 2022
Jamf to acquire ZecOps to bolster iOS security
Jamf will pay an undisclosed sum for ZecOps, which logs activity on iOS devices to find potential attacks. The companies expect the deal to close by 2023. Continue Reading
-
Definition
13 Sep 2022
CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment)
CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment) is a virtual reality (VR) environment consisting of a cube-shaped VR room or a room-scale area in which the walls, floors and ceilings are projection screens. Continue Reading
-
News
30 Aug 2022
VMware updates Horizon Cloud to reduce infrastructure needs
VMware has improved Horizon Cloud and added features to Workspace One UEM. It also plans to launch a managed virtual desktop product to support the various needs of hybrid work. Continue Reading
-
News
13 Jul 2022
New CEO not likely to change Tibco once merged with Citrix
The analytics vendor's product leaders all remain in place, so while it will have a new company leader, its product development capabilities are expected to remain unchanged. Continue Reading
-
Definition
21 Jun 2022
Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan)
Remote Desktop Connection Manager (RDCMan) is a free Microsoft tool that enables IT administrators to organize, group and control multiple remote desktop connections. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Jun 2022
How to approach Citrix performance troubleshooting
Citrix performance issues can be difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and troubleshoot them using various techniques, such as automation. Continue Reading
-
Tip
25 May 2022
Understanding remote desktop connection management tools
With the influx of remote work, it's no surprise that organizations need a way to access and manage remote user desktops effectively. A few types of tools factor into this effort. Continue Reading
-
Tip
24 May 2022
Using native and third-party Citrix troubleshooting tools
End-user issues will come up in any virtual desktop environment, so administrators must be prepared. For a Citrix environment, there are various tools at IT's disposal. Continue Reading
-
Tip
13 May 2022
Understanding the DaaS options for Macs
When people discuss desktop as a service, it is usually in the context of Windows desktops. For macOS, however, implementing DaaS can be more complicated. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Feb 2022
How to address roaming profiles with GPOs
Organizations with virtual desktops should plan out their profile management strategy, and one key component is profile management. GPOs can help. Continue Reading
-
Tip
09 Dec 2021
How to configure automatic Azure Virtual Desktop scaling
Azure Virtual Desktop now supports VM automation for tasks such as scaling up and ramping down. These features can lead to a more efficient and cost-effective VDI environment. Continue Reading
-
Definition
21 Oct 2021
virtual desktop
A virtual desktop is a computer operating system that does not run directly on the endpoint hardware from which a user accesses it. Continue Reading
-
Definition
15 Oct 2021
Parallels Desktop for Mac
Parallels Desktop for Mac is desktop virtualization software that allows Microsoft Windows, Linux and Google Chrome OSes and applications to run on an Apple Mac computer. Continue Reading