Virtual desktop infrastructure and architecture
Top Stories
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Tip
02 Sep 2021
Understanding the difference between thin and thick clients
How do thin and thick clients compare for licensing or flexibility? These two endpoint types each have their role in the enterprise, but they fit into organizations in very different ways. Continue Reading
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News
06 Aug 2021
VMware expands VD management tools for Microsoft Azure
VMware's latest Horizon virtual desktop management tools improve the performance of the product on Microsoft Azure. The changes appear in the Horizon Control Plane. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Tip
18 Nov 2022
Automating testing and delivery for virtual apps and desktops
One of the many tasks that come with maintaining a virtual environment is the testing and delivery of virtual apps and desktops. Learn how automation can help these processes. Continue Reading
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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
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Tip
10 Nov 2022
What are the best application delivery services and methods?
With the help of different application delivery services, IT teams can deliver a quality user experience to workers, but these services are best suited to specific use cases. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Nov 2022
Analyzing the chaos in the desktop virtualization market
From major acquisitions to brand-new product launches and rebrands, Citrix, Microsoft and VMware have been shaking up the desktop virtualization space. Continue Reading
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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
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News
30 Sep 2022
Questions remain following Citrix-TIBCO merger
Investment firms Vista Equity Partners and Evergreen Coast Capital completed the acquisition of Citrix, but questions about partnerships and potential product spinoffs remain. Continue Reading
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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
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Tip
18 Aug 2022
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
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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
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Tip
26 May 2022
Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops basic troubleshooting guide
Without the proper troubleshooting process, IT would have to guess what the issue might be. However, a clear and consistent approach can provide fast and accurate results. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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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
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Tip
28 Apr 2022
What are the key differences between DaaS and VPN?
VPN and DaaS can both give remote access to corporate resources, but they differ in key ways. IT admins should consider these factors when making the decision of DaaS vs. VPN. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2022
Comparing Windows 365 vs. Azure Virtual Desktop
While Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 both offer a virtual desktop service from Microsoft, major differences exist between an AVD machine and a Windows 365 Cloud PC. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2022
What are the pros and cons of DaaS?
Desktop as a service stands out for its scalability, but IT admins should also keep factors such as customizability in mind when considering their desktop virtualization options. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2022
Microsoft brings Windows 365 Cloud PC closer to Windows 11
Microsoft will make Windows 365 more like a local install of Windows by letting employees work offline and switch between their local desktops and Cloud PC. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2022
Windows 365 security features for IT admins to know
Like any technology that supports end-user PCs, Windows 365 environments need properly configured security controls. IT must learn how to support these Cloud PCs before deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2022
Features and pricing for Windows 365 Enterprise and Business
Organizations considering Windows 365 must learn the difference between the Enterprise and Business editions and what resources are available to customers of each. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2022
What is Windows 365 and what does it offer?
The Windows 365 Cloud PC subscription brings a new option to the desktop virtualization landscape, with some familiar traits and several key distinctions. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2022
Configuring folder redirection works with roaming profiles
Folder redirection can support a virtual desktop environment with roaming profiles by providing users with consistency when it comes to local files on their desktop. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
Samsung extends VMware Horizon to second screen
People running VMware’s virtual desktop on Samsung’s smartphones and tablets can access Windows on both the device and an attached monitor to increase productivity. Continue Reading
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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
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News
31 Jan 2022
Citrix to focus on digital workspace following acquisition
A private equity consortium acquiring Citrix will merge it with business intelligence vendor Tibco to add data analytics into Citrix Workspace. The deal is set to close this year. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2022
Fixing VMware Horizon disk latency and other resource issues
When users in a VMware Horizon environment run into performance issues, IT should look into the resource consumption, including disk CPU, to find the root cause and address it. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2021
How to use VMware Horizon Performance Tracker
A good user experience is essential for VDI. Learn how to install and use VMware Horizon Performance Tracker to take the pulse of end-user experience. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2021
Navigating VMware logs for troubleshooting
IT administrators who run a VMware deployment should familiarize themselves with the troubleshooting logs, how to find them and what they mean. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Dec 2021
Azure Virtual Desktop requirements, customizations and more
Azure Virtual Desktop has some simple requirements, but organizations must look at their needs for a virtual desktop environment compared to the capabilities of AVD. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Dec 2021
Azure Virtual Desktop setup tutorial
When IT administrators set up an Azure Virtual Desktop environment, they must ensure that the proper prerequisites are in place and follow the process outlined below. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Dec 2021
Understanding how Azure Virtual Desktop pricing works
Organizations considering Azure Virtual Desktop should factor in all the components that affect pricing, such as VM type and virtual resources. Continue Reading
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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
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Tip
11 Nov 2021
Considering third-party virtual desktop printing management
Third-party printer management vendors make printing from a virtual desktop easier for IT admins to set up and support. Learn some of the top platforms to consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Nov 2021
Options for VMware printing management in the enterprise
Organizations that run VMware Horizon need to factor in printer management to their overall IT strategy. They should learn features such as VMware Integrated Printing policy. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Sep 2021
Setting up and troubleshooting multiple thin client monitors
Thin clients generally require less attention from desktop administrators, but sometimes, IT needs to intervene to set up or troubleshoot a multiple monitor workstation. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Sep 2021
Choosing a thin client for remote desktop protocol access
There are plenty of suitable thin client options for RDP environments, but each device has unique characteristics that make it a strong or poor fit for a particular organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Sep 2021
Understanding the difference between thin and thick clients
How do thin and thick clients compare for licensing or flexibility? These two endpoint types each have their role in the enterprise, but they fit into organizations in very different ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Aug 2021
Integrating SaaS applications with Citrix Workspace
Citrix Workspace allows for numerous integrations and one of the most valuable is SaaS applications. The setup process is straightforward but depends on Citrix's level of support. Continue Reading
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News
06 Aug 2021
VMware expands VD management tools for Microsoft Azure
VMware's latest Horizon virtual desktop management tools improve the performance of the product on Microsoft Azure. The changes appear in the Horizon Control Plane. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Aug 2021
How to perform a Citrix Cloud migration with CVAD
When it comes to migrating on-premises Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops to Citrix Cloud, IT administrators should learn the migration process and its prerequisites. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jul 2021
HP to buy Teradici to improve virtual-desktop delivery
Teradici would provide HP with technology to help customers bolster the performance of their virtual desktops. HP expects to close the deal this year. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2021
Microsoft Windows 365 confuses tech buyers
Microsoft hasn't clearly defined when a company should pick Windows 365 over its other desktop as a service, Azure Virtual Desktop. The differences seem more subtle than dramatic. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2021
Microsoft puts its OS in the cloud with Windows 365
Microsoft said Windows 365 gives companies a simple way to use cloud-based desktops at a predictable price. The company will release two versions of the product in early August. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2021
Microsoft integrates virtual desktop, Azure Active Directory
Azure Virtual Desktop will let people use their Azure Active Directory credentials to sign in to any device. Microsoft plans more integration between the two products later. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Jun 2021
A Windows Virtual Desktop overview for customers
WVD brings distinct advantages to the table, with a few caveats. Find out how WVD stacks up compared to the market. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2021
Guide for WVD pricing with Microsoft Azure
Organizations that want to deploy WVD and Azure should go beyond Microsoft's estimates for pricing and learn the total cost of ownership for these services and resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2021
Why and when to use Windows Virtual Desktop
Organizations considering Windows Virtual Desktop should take a step back and evaluate when it makes sense to use WVD, and when to consider alternative options. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Mar 2021
Compare Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops vs. WVD
It's difficult to know exactly how Citrix's and Microsoft's virtual desktop offerings stack up against one another, but this article compares WVD vs. Citrix based on several factors. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2021
4 Windows Virtual Desktop management limitations
WVD management isn't all the way there yet, despite Microsoft expanding its offering over the past year. Some capabilities still aren't as extensive as Citrix and VMware's offerings. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2021
VMware Horizon sizing guide for Windows 10 environments
When an organization needs to deploy a VMware Horizon VDI environment with Windows 10 desktops, it must plan for and consider a massive range of factors. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2021
Citrix launches well-being microapps for Workspace
Citrix will help companies measure employee wellness with simple programs that can take surveys and distribute health and corporate news. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2021
Choose a Windows Virtual Desktop managed service provider
Windows Virtual Desktop can present numerous management and deployment challenges for IT admins, so organizations may want to outsource these processes to a WVD MSP. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2021
How to configure Remote Desktop in Windows Server 2008 R2 step by step
Learn how to install and configure Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2008 R2 to use Terminal Services and Remote Desktop Gateway Manager. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jan 2021
Citrix to acquire Wrike for $2.25 billion
Citrix announced it will acquire Wrike for $2.25 billion, a move aimed at bringing project management features to the Citrix Workspace offering. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2021
How to troubleshoot an RDP remote session stuck at configuring
Admins forced to troubleshoot a Microsoft RDP session getting stuck at configuration must understand these key steps to fix their issue and be able to adapt these steps to their environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Dec 2020
Why COVID-19 fuels desktop virtualization trends
VDI products provide organizations with a foundation for remote employees, but they aren't a cure-all. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Dec 2020
How to set up Microsoft Teams on WVD
Organizations that rely on Microsoft Teams may want to consider deploying the application via WVD. They can learn how that process works in this step-by-step guide. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2020
How to fix 8 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
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Tip
04 Dec 2020
How to select the best Windows Virtual Desktop thin client
While thin clients aren't the most feature-rich devices, they offer a secure endpoint for virtual desktop users. Learn how to evaluate different options for Windows Virtual Desktop. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2020
Amazon brings Mac mini to AWS
Amazon's new EC2 Mac service offers the macOS on Mac mini hardware to developers who want to build Xcode applications for the Mac, iPad, iPhone and the Apple Watch. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2020
How to troubleshoot a VMware Horizon black screen
One of the most common issues with VMware Horizon virtual desktops is a black screen displaying and crashing the desktop, so IT admins should learn how to troubleshoot this issue. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2020
Running GPU passthrough for a virtual desktop with Hyper-V
Any IT admin knows that desktop performance must be high quality to provide quality UX, and in some cases, admins may need to configure GPU passthrough for power user virtual desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2020
5 reasons printer redirection causes Windows printing problems in RDS
Windows printing problems are a pain. If you have printer redirection issues with the Remote Desktop Protocol in RDS, check user permissions, client requirements and more. Continue Reading
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News
28 Oct 2020
Google, Parallels improve Windows on Chromebooks
The Google-Parallels technology provides access to Windows software on Chromebooks. The new product could make Chrome OS laptops more attractive to enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Oct 2020
8 key VDI deployment best practices
When IT plans for its VDI deployment, it must factor in best practices for the setup process, such as considering client options and designing the VDI to have high availability. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Oct 2020
How to calculate VDI costs and keep them to a minimum
When the true cost of VDI is hazy, it's a good idea to make a comprehensive calculation. Determine how to factor in costs related to hardware, infrastructure, licensing and more. Continue Reading
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News
05 Oct 2020
VMware bolsters Workspace One security with Secure Access
With the new Secure Access, VMware says remote workers will have a better and more secure way to use their Workspace One virtual desktops and applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Oct 2020
How to perform WVD monitoring with Azure Log Analytics
Like any DaaS offering, Windows Virtual Desktop's success depends on user experience. Learn how to set up the Azure Log Analytics tool and how it can help virtual desktop administrators. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Oct 2020
Desktop as a service vs. VDI: What's the difference?
The battle for desktop virtualization domination is on. DaaS is able to pack a punch at VDI with cost benefits, cloud services and more flexibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2020
Consider affordable VDI alternatives to Citrix and VMware
Citrix, VMware and Microsoft aren't the only VDI vendors on the block. Check out alternatives to the major players and what lesser-known VDI vendors can offer. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Sep 2020
Solve the mystery of VDI licensing
A VDI deployment is tricky enough without worrying about having the right VDI licensing. Stay one step ahead of the problems by knowing which license to use. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Sep 2020
Monitor VDI with these top tools
VDI monitoring helps IT pros get to the bottom of end-user experience issues. Understand what to monitor, and review some of the top VDI tools on the market. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Sep 2020
VDI testing checklist: Key steps to test a VDI deployment
Whether IT is running VDI for the first time or simply tweaking the back-end hardware, admins should follow a VDI testing checklist to ensure positive UX and sufficient desktop resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2020
Compare Nutanix Frame vs. Citrix Managed Desktops
While Nutanix isn't as invested in the end-user market as Citrix, both desktop-as-a-service vendors offer benefits for business use cases. IT must evaluate which is the better fit. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Sep 2020
VDI vs. RDS: What are the differences?
The difference between a VDI and an RDS desktop may be small for users, but for IT, the decision of how to host its virtual desktops is extremely important. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2020
How to troubleshoot common VDI issues
VDI administrators must be adept at troubleshooting various VDI issues. Sufficient planning can prevent some, but IT should be prepared to deal with a few common issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
VDI hardware comparison: Thin vs. thick vs. zero clients
Thin clients aren't on a diet; they just do less processing than 'fat' clients. Devices such as the iPad are also VDI hardware options. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Sep 2020
Compare 7 desktop-as-a-service providers
When it comes to choosing a DaaS provider, organizations may get overwhelmed by the options. Compare the features and capabilities of 7 major vendors to determine the best fit. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Sep 2020
6 ways VDI can benefit your business
As with any technology implementation, VDI requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. Evaluate these VDI benefits to determine whether it's a good fit for the business. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Sep 2020
How does Citrix work on a Chromebook?
Organizations looking for cost-effective laptops may consider Chromebooks, but IT must learn if these endpoints can coexist with existing business technologies, such as Citrix. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2020
How to evaluate VDI storage requirements
There are a variety of factors that affect VDI storage, including system requirements and supported workloads. Evaluate these factors to ease the VDI planning process. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Sep 2020
Picking the right VDI use cases means understanding users
When deciding whether or not to use VDI, IT pros should consider the user above all else, including how users will adjust, as well as what they do and where they work. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2020
Learn the Windows Virtual Desktop setup process
Organizations looking to set up Windows Virtual Desktop machines can do so with Azure Resource Manager, but admins must ensure their environment has the necessary prerequisites. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2020
Three VDI challenges that can derail any project
IT shops need to look out for complexity, cost and performance problems when they put a VDI implementation plan in place. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jul 2020
Microsoft contemplates new DaaS product, 'Cloud PC'
Unexpected consumption costs mar companies' adoption of the cloud. The reported Microsoft Cloud PC, with per-user pricing, could ease that issue. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Jul 2020
Settle the thin client vs. PC debate for VDI endpoints
IT has the responsibility to provide virtual desktop endpoints that maximize UX based on the use cases, so admins should learn the different sides of the thin client vs. PC debate. Continue Reading
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News
16 Jul 2020
Citrix-Microsoft partnership aimed at Azure, Office
A new Citrix-Microsoft team-up is intended to ease the challenges of dealing with a hybrid workforce. The companies aim to improve moving to the cloud and working digitally. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jul 2020
Citrix vulnerabilities affect ADC, Gateway, SD-WAN
Citrix vulnerabilities in several of its networking products expose its customers to hackers looking to infiltrate computing systems. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Jul 2020
How does ControlUp monitoring fix Citrix performance issues?
There are few more important aspects of managing virtual desktops than monitoring them for performance issues. This video tutorial explains how to use ControlUp for UX monitoring. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2020
Understanding persistent vs. nonpersistent VDI
You have a big decision to make when you deploy virtual desktops: Do you go with persistent or nonpersistent VDI? The choice often comes down to storage.. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jun 2020
Security, productivity key desktop virtualization benefits
According to a survey conducted by Enterprise Strategy Group, IT pros pointed to security, productivity and IT efficiency as the virtualization benefits driving VDI and DaaS adoption. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jun 2020
DaaS provider eases remote work issues for investment firm
The pandemic forced many organizations to quickly transition to remote work, and DaaS subscribers such as Johnson Investment Counsel had a few key advantages during this process. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jun 2020
Home network setups pose remote work challenge
Having Citrix Workspace in place pre-pandemic made the shift to remote work easier for William Fry employees, but shoddy home networks posed a significant hurdle for the IT team. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Jun 2020
Comparing AMD vs. Nvidia for virtual desktop GPU cards
Both AMD and Nvidia bring virtual GPUs to virtual desktop users with resource-intensive applications, but organizations should learn what each vendor's vGPU cards can offer. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 May 2020
What is a roaming profile and how does it work?
Although several newer tools are available, Microsoft roaming profiles is a simple and time-tested way to manage a user's profile across physical and virtual desktop environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2020
5 tips to optimize CAD application performance for VDI
CAD applications that run on VDI require special treatment on the back end by admins, and this video explains how IT can optimize CAD performance for remote and local users. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 May 2020
Design firm ups productivity with Workspot
Mead & Hunt is using Workspot virtual desktops to enable remote work during the pandemic -- and it's paying off in ways the firm didn't expect. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2020
Parallels RAS pushes remote work flexibility
Industry observers say Parallels RAS' speed of deployment, ease of use and compatibility with varying devices helps businesses retain remote work flexibility. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2020
How Telus International addressed remote work challenges
Telus International CTO Jim Radzicki credits Google Cloud for the firm's rapid deployment of remote work technology, like virtual desktops, in the face of the pandemic. Continue Reading