Desktop virtualization brings many benefits

http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/citrix-xendesktop-product-line-begins-shipping,401559.shtml

HOUSTON - (Business Wire) Today at Citrix Synergy™, the event where virtualization, networking and application delivery meet, Citrix Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CTXS) announced the immediate availability of Citrix XenDesktop™, the most highly anticipated new product line in company history (see earlier product announcement). The company also revealed previously unannounced details about the complete XenDesktop product line, including the release of a new Express Edition offering free desktop virtualization for up to 10 users, and new Enterprise and Platinum Editions which tightly integrate the industry’s most proven application virtualization via the new XenApp for Virtual Desktops feature. All editions of XenDesktop are optimized to work with the new Citrix Desktop Receiver™ client to create an unparalleled end user experience (see related announcement today) as well as a wide range of certified Citrix Ready™ hardware and software solutions, creating the industry’s most comprehensive solution for desktop delivery.

“In desktop virtualization environments, separating the applications from the desktop operating system provides IT organizations with greater flexibility, scalability and manageability of the overall desktop delivery solution. It simplifies desktop lifecycle management by consolidating desktops and applications down to just a few standardized images that can be dynamically combined for individual users’ needs,” said Andi Mann, research director, Enterprise Management Associates. “This model combines the cost advantages of server-based computing delivery with the user satisfaction of a personalized desktop experience - both of which are key drivers in the broader adoption of desktop virtualization.”

Desktop virtualization is an area which I expect is going to see growth, not just because of the improvements in the technology, but also as a vehicle to reduce the cost of a user operationally and from an energy efficiency standpoint.

Through desktop virtualization, not only can I improve systems management and reporting, we can improve the audit trail, compliance, reduce any potential loss of data which has to be an enabler to many businesses.