Virtual Desktop

virtual desktop - 1. A virtual desktop is an individual user's interface in a virtualized environment.The virtualized desktop is stored on a remote server rather than locally.

Desktop virtualization software separates the physical machine from the software and presents an isolated operating system for users. Desktop virtualization tools include Microsoft Virtual PC, VMware Workstation and Parallels Desktop for Mac.

The benefits of desktop virtualization include:

   * Cost savings because resources can be shared and allocated on an as-needed basis.
   * More efficient use of resources and energy.
   * Improved data integrity because backup is centralized.
   * Centralized administration.
   * Fewer compatibility issues.

Knowledge workers who use mostly business software applications are good candidates for desktop virtualization. The model is not generally viable for users with high resource demands.

See also: desktop virtualization infrastructure (VDI)

2. On a single host machine, a user may have separate virtual desktops for different applications. One desktop might feature applications for graphic design, for example, and another might feature business applications.

Related glossary terms: Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP), user installed application (UIA), Clonezilla, desktop virtualization, virtual hard disk (VHD), continuous media, hot desking

[Category=Data Management ]

Source: WhatIs.com, 15 September 2013 09:29:47, http://whatis.techtarget.com/glossary/Data-and-Data-Management