Virtual Desktop
Definition
Cloud-based desktop computing environment that allows users to access their desktop, applications, and files from any device with internet connection.
Use Cases
- HSBC: Enable secure remote work for employees and contractors with centralized control over corporate apps and data. — Adopted virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) to deliver standardized Windows desktops to endpoints, keeping sensitive data in the data center/cloud rather than on local devices. (Improved security posture through centralized management and reduced data exposure on unmanaged endpoints; supported remote access at scale.)
- Netflix: Provide secure, temporary workstations for production and studio workflows without permanently issuing high-privilege laptops. — Uses AWS End User Computing services such as Amazon WorkSpaces for certain secure workstation needs, enabling controlled access to tools and resources. (Faster provisioning of work environments and improved control over access to internal resources compared with distributing long-lived physical machines.)
Provider Equivalents
- AWS: Amazon WorkSpaces
- Azure: Azure Virtual Desktop
- GCP: null
- OCI: OCI Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the difference between Virtual Desktop and VDI?
- VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) is the underlying technology and architecture for hosting desktops on centralized servers. “Virtual Desktop” is the end-user experience: a desktop you log into remotely. In practice, virtual desktops are often delivered using VDI (self-managed) or DaaS (a cloud provider manages much of the VDI platform).
- When should I use a Virtual Desktop?
- Use a virtual desktop when you need secure access to corporate apps and data from many device types (BYOD, contractors, call centers), when users need a consistent desktop anywhere, when you want centralized patching and policy control, or when you need rapid onboarding/offboarding. It’s also useful for regulated environments where keeping data off endpoints is important.
- How much does a Virtual Desktop cost?
- Costs depend on (1) desktop type (persistent vs non-persistent), (2) compute size (CPU/RAM/GPU), (3) storage and backups, (4) licensing (Windows, Microsoft 365/Remote Desktop rights, third-party VDI licenses), (5) user concurrency and hours of use, and (6) network egress and security tooling. Managed DaaS is often priced per user per month or per desktop instance-hour, plus storage and optional services.
Category: virtualization
Difficulty: intermediate
Related Terms