What is Windows Virtual Desktop?

Windows Virtual Desktop, sometimes referred to as WVD, leverages the power of Microsoft Azure. It is a set of technologies that enable IT professionals and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to create Windows 10 virtual desktops in Azure. WVD deployments have grown in recent due to the unprecedented pandemic conditions that left many companies – both small businesses and enterprises – struggling to quickly empower a remote and virtual workforce.

The Benefits of Windows Virtual Desktop

Essentially, WVD is a virtual machine hosting a desktop and virtualization service running on the cloud. It provides a virtual desktop experience and access to remote apps from any device. It can also merge Microsoft Office 365 and Azure’s functionality to provide multiple sessions of Windows 10.

As a relatively new technology, WVD has quickly grown among organizations trying to deliver a better user experience for employees. It also allows organizations to quickly upgrade to the latest security and feature updates, reducing IT costs.

Microsoft boasts the following benefits in using Windows Virtual Desktop:

• The ability to provide a scalable multi-session Windows 10 (full) deployment.
• Virtualization of Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise, and the ability to optimize functionality even in a multi-user virtual environment.
• Delivery of Windows 7 virtual desktops with free Extended Security Updates.
• Integration of existing Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and Windows Server desktops and apps to any computer.
• Virtualization of both desktop and apps.
• Management abilities for Windows 10, Windows Server, and Windows 7 to deliver a unified management experience.
• The ability to assign and connect users to virtual desktops.

There are several ways in which deploying WVD can benefit enterprises.

Security: With all of the features of WVD on Azure, Microsoft’s security protocols and elements create a secure network that is continuously updated with the latest security enhancements. There are multiple advanced security features to control access and determine what users can and cannot do within sessions, including:

• Role-Based Access Control determines groups and roles to ensures users only access the applications and desktops they need.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) leverages the user’s smartphone to provide employees with a 2^nd form of authentication. This authentication comes in the form of a secure random code or push authorization to add an additional layer of security to prevent hackers from using stolen passwords to access the company’s systems and data.
• Conditional Access enables companies to block or restrict access to a Windows Virtual Desktop based on the country, office location, and whether the device is considered to be secure or not. This restriction ensures that only the right people with trusted devices can attempt to access your WVD environment.

Taken together, these features enable organizations to maintain a secure environment and protect their valuable data.

Scalability: One of the biggest advantages to implementing Windows Virtual Desktop is that companies can scale quickly and easily. The Azure cloud has near-infinite computational resources available to customers, ensuring that your company can grow as quickly as you need it. You won’t be held back due to limited resources. Additionally, companies can select from 60 global locations to host their Virtual Desktops and Business Applications, which means you have the flexibility to determine where your service and data are hosted. The scalability feature is especially beneficial for organizations that have to quickly scale up and scale down due to changing market conditions. WVD is incredibly responsive to your business’s needs.

Reliable & Robust: Azure is available in over 140 countries, providing the largest global footprint of all cloud providers. Microsoft also guarantees 99.95 SLA for Virtual Machines with correct architecture and 99.9% SLA for the WVD service, delivering the best reliability available. Outages are rare, and in most instances, the only limitation will be local network conditions. Azure also has over 90 compliance certifications ranging from GDPR to country-based certifications. These features mean that businesses of all sizes can rest easy knowing that their applications and data will be secure and available.

Cost-Effective: WVD can help organizations save money in multiple ways. Azure hosting reduces the infrastructure required for operations, including the funds that are frequently spent on servers and server rooms. With less infrastructure, you will also have to spend less to maintain it. Fewer employees in roles such as help desk support mean you will save money on labor as well. Companies with a remote workforce can also save on office space and, in some instances, even endpoint devices.

Productivity: Perhaps one of the biggest benefits that employers will see with WVD is enhanced productivity. WVD allows users to access their virtual desktop from anywhere with internet access on a trusted device. This flexibility means that employees can have the same desktop experience they have come to expect, even in remote locations or when traveling. It is a no-fuss way for employees to have a uniform experience wherever they are, meaning they can focus on their task at hand rather than troubleshooting issues that commonly arise when connecting remotely.

While WVD is an ideal solution for many companies, it often takes a transition period to full deployment. Companies must have their apps in a digital format with a proper signature. Once deployed, WVD operates efficiently and usually with no interruption.

WVD remains a potent tool that can help your business adjust to a remote or hybrid working environment. It delivers a uniform experience every time an employee connects while ensuring your business’s data remains secure.

If you are looking for a remote solution for your organization, or need guidance on how to convert your current operation to be more flexible for remote work instances, contact us. Get a no obligation assessment to see how we can help get your remote workforce tuned up properly.

Sagacent Technologies offers technology management and support, including proactive/preventative maintenance, onsite and offsite data back-ups, network and security audits, mobility solutions, disaster planning, and emergency business resumption services. The company serves clients of 10 to 150 employees within the Silicon Valley region.