Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/98946
VDI: Not Your Traditional Desktop Deployment New to XenDesktop 5.6 is Personal vDisk (formerly RingCube Technology). This feature is a personalization solution for virtual desktop environments. Two new types of catalog allow you to preserve the assignment of users to desktops, even when the disk is cleaned at restart. The catalogs are pooled with personal vDisk (for pooled-static virtual desktops) that you manage with Desktop Studio and streamed with personal vDisk that you manage with Provisioning Services. In addition, a dedicated storage disk is created before logon, so users can store their data on the desktop, including any applications they install. vDisk is great for one-off applications and finally supports the use of Outlook in caching mode by having a persistent location to deposit the OST files. As you might expect, one of the added benefits of VDI is the endless choice of endpoint devices. Yes, you can continue to run your old Windows XP desktops and laptops. Yes, you can finally say okay to those tech-savvy attorneys who wish to work from an Apple MacBook or iPad. And yes, the market is chock-full of low-cost and easy-to-manage thin-client devices. Be sure to look for terminals that support HDX for flash off-load (for added rich-media and Web performance) and for thin-client devices running a Windows 7 Embedded OS, which allows the latest version of XenDesktop to deliver Aero mode for that at-home look and feel. The Changing Face of Desktop Computing It's an exciting time to be working in the legal IT market. Advancements such as VDI and Windows 7 have changed the way we can manage and deliver desktop technology to our firms. While virtual desktop infrastructure can deliver a real-life, high-performance experience, the upfront investment can be significant given the added costs of shared storage, super-server and software licenses required from both Microsoft and Citrix (or whichever virtualization provider you use). While these expenses might discourage some from considering VDI deployment, many firms realize that centralizing and virtualizing drive down the cost of support, permit the retirement of legacy-based remote access systems and pay dividends when the time comes to upgrade (yet again) to the latest versions of desktop application software. VDI has changed the face of desktop computing. The only question is whether you and your firm are ready to move away from the traditional desktop deployment. CHANGE IT UP. It's not just about changing technology, but how to do it smarter. HBR CONSULTING knows the challenges that come with change. We specialize in helping you plan, implement, measure key business and technology initiatives. Its about understanding your business and needs. hbrconsulting.com Hildebrandt Baker Robbins is now HBR CONSULTING BENEFIT FROM OUR EXPERIENCE ILTA White Paper 27