VMware

Deliver Server-based Virtual Desktops to Remote Users with VMware VDI

For partner organizations and independent service providers that require temporary access to corporate desktops, use VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) to deliver server-based virtual machines that remote users on corporate-owned and third-party PCs can access through a secure network connection.

VMware VDI enables you to deliver virtual desktops from a central data center, so you never have to worry about the configuration or physical security of third-party client PC hardware. Centralized storage of virtual desktops also makes it easier to perform maintenance and to troubleshoot user issues without expense or hassle of site visits or remote IT staffing.

Simplify temporary provisioning with virtual desktop pools

  • VMware VDI gives you the flexibility to assign individual desktops to each user, or to allocate a shared "pool" of persistent and non-persistent virtual desktops that are based on master templates.
  • Persistent pools allow an individual user to log into the same desktop every time. In contrast, non-persistent desktops are returned to the pool when users log off.
  • VMware VDI can also suspend virtual desktops that are not in use, helping to conserve energy while freeing up memory and processing power on the host server hardware.

These capabilities make it simpler and more cost-effective to support individual workers and large user groups for pre-determined periods of time.


Support Consultants, Contractors and Temporary Workers with VMware ACE

For consultants, contractors and temporary workers, use VMware ACE to quickly provision and de-provision rights-managed, self-policing "assured computing environments" (ACEs) to corporate-owned computers, unmanaged host PCs and even removable USB storage devices.

At the core of this virtual desktop solution are granular policies that give you precise and dynamic control over every aspect of the ACEs you deploy, as illustrated in the table below:

ACE Policy Benefit

Authentication & user access


Ensure that only authorized users can access an ACE virtual desktop with Active Directory integration


Activation and deactivation


Control when and for how long an ACE virtual desktop can be used to facilitate temporary access


Network access


Define network zones and access rules for ACE virtual desktops and their host computers


Device access


Allow or restrict an ACE virtual machine from interfacing with CD/DVD drives, floppy drives, USB drives and other devices


Resource signing


Verify the integrity of policy scripts, custom EULAs to prevent tampering and misuse


Hotfix & update management


Provide support to ACE users and enforce patch and update standards with mandatory check-ins


All policy control is dynamic, so you can quickly quarantine or deactivate an ACE virtual desktop to help combat the spread of a worm or virus without deploying updates. The result is a secure, flexible solution that makes it easy to extend temporary access to valuable corporate assets.


Next Steps

Learn about VMware virtual desktop solutions for branch office management, secure mobile computing and unmanaged desktops, or by contacting VMware directly at 1-877-4VMWARE (650-427-5000 outside of North America). You can also submit a solutions request online or contact VMware Sales.