Hello, I have a question. Recently, I’ve seen many companies mentioning VDI. What exactly is it?
VDI stands for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
Means your computer desktop actually runs on a central server instead of your physical device.
The system creates multiple virtual desktops on a centralized server. Each virtual machine (VMs) contains its own operating system and applications. Users can access these desktops remotely from various endpoint devices—such as laptops or tablets. All data processing happens on the central server, allowing users to access their desktop from anywhere with an internet connection.
I see.
And can VDI handle heavy workloads like 3D design CAD, CAE or CAM?
Absolutely, VDI can handle graphics-intensive workloads. However, it requires GPU because the server performs all the heavy processing, not on the user’s laptop.
Your laptop simply displays the output and sends commands back to the server, while the server handles the actual computation.
Then what does VDI structure look like?
[VDI Structure]:
- Hypervisor
- The hypervisor is software that creates and manages virtual environments on a single physical server. It enables multiple virtual machines (VMs) to run independently on the same hardware.
- Common hypervisors: VMware ESXi, Hyper-V, Nutanix AHV
2. Physical Server
- High-performance hardware to handle all VMs computation. Usually include High-end CPUs, Large memory capacity and optional NVIDIA GPUs for heavy workloads such as advanced engineering or design tasks (CAD, CAM, CAE)
- The server will hosts all the virtual desktops used by users
3. GPU Virtualization (For heavy workloads)
- For advanced engineering or design tasks such as CAD (3D Design), CAM, CAE, simulation, rendering, and analysis, the system requires NVIDIA virtual GPU (vGPU) technology.
- A single GPU can be shared among multiple VMs.
- Each user receives dedicated GPU performance for demanding workloads.
- This enables real-time simulation, high-resolution rendering, digital twins, generative design, and more—without physical workstations.
4. Storage Server
- Operating systems, applications, user profiles, and VM data are stored centrally on a Storage Server (SAN, NAS, or vSAN).
- Even if a hardware component fails, data is safe because everything resides in centralized storage.
5. Connection Broker
- This component automatically assigns users to the appropriate VM
- Manage Authentication & authorization, Session management and Resource allocation
6. User Device
- Users can access VDI from Standard laptops, Thin clients, Tablets and lightweight devices
- Simply remote into the VMs. No heavy processing is done on the endpoint device.
Is it safe to access VDI from home in term of data security?
Yes, VDI is significantly more secure than traditional desktops because
- No data stored on local devices
Even if a laptop is lost or stolen, no data is exposed. - Centralized access control
Admins can restrict copying files, screen sharing, or USB access. - Strong malware and virus resistance
All activity occurs in a controlled environment, allowing quick resets and updates. - Fast backup and recovery
If a ransomware attack occurs, data can be quickly restored from snapshots. - Full audit logging
Every session is logged for security auditing.
That’s good.
And I’ve seen a small box connected to a monitor—what is that?
That device is called a Thin Client or sometimes a Zero Client.
It connects to the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and serves as a lightweight endpoint that displays the virtual desktop from the server. It doesn’t perform heavy tasks—everything is processed in the server.
So, do a Thin Client mandatory to use VDI?
Not at all! You can use a laptop or any regular PC. Just install a client application or log in via a web browser.
Companies choose Thin Clients because they are Easier to manage, More secure, Longer-lasting, Low maintenance (no hard disk, fewer breakable parts)
Understand.
Is VDI only for large organizations?
Not at all. VDI is suitable for small, medium, and large organizations.
Large enterprises — Use VDI for centralized management and security. Software updates and security configurations are applied from the backend without physically touching each device.
Small and medium businesses — Benefit from flexible remote access. Employees can work from home, while traveling, or from multiple office locations and access the same desktop anywhere.
And if we actually want to use it, would the cost be high?
Since they mentioned servers, it sounds like it might be quite expensive.”
There can be initial investment for servers and hardware. But in the long run, VDI is often more cost-effective because:
- You don’t need to buy expensive workstations for every employee
- Thin Clients (low-cost) can replace traditional PCs
- Lower maintenance and repair costs
- Centralized updates reduce IT workload
- Endpoint devices last longer and fail less often
Overall, VDI offers substantial long-term savings.
VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) is not as complex as it sounds. It is a modern approach that helps organizations.
✔ Work securely from anywhere
✔ Simplify IT operations
✔ Reduce long-term hardware costs
✔ Improve data security
VDI is an ideal step toward “centralizing management”
Thank you. We will consider on it.
