Labs - Virtual Desktop Infrastructure | Information Systems & Services

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

What is Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)?

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is the practice of running virtual instances of operating systems and applications on centralised servers.  Instead of installing and running the operating system on the workstation, all that is needed is a small client to establish a connection to the VDI server - from then on the user is actually working on a virtual session on the server, though it appears that all the software is installed and running locally.

What are the advantages of VDI?

There are a number of advantages to working in a VDI environment:

  • Fast software deployment: Rather than having to install software on potentially 100s of computers, software installations can be managed from a single source on the server, so that when users next login the software is immediately available.
  • Multiple client devices: Users can potentially log into a VDI session from practically any device - iPhones, Android, Linux, OSX and Windows.
  • Lab Hardware repurposing: As there is no longer a need to install a full operating system and application list on the connecting device, we can re-use older hardware that would not otherwise be able to run the most up-to-date versions of the software you need.

How is VDI currently implemented in DCU?

ISS have implemented Citrix VDI-in-a-Box on two servers to host our VDI solution - 96 lab PCs with older hardware have been repurposed as VDI Thin Clients (a thin client is basically a PC running only enough software to establish a connection to the VDI server).  These PCs are located on the 1st floor of the library, and in labs QG28 and QG30 in the Business School.  A different set of software (known as an image) runs in both locations, so users logging into the Business School labs will have access to all the applications that they currently need.

What plans are there for the development of the VDI solution in DCU?

The initial VDI implementation project was to establish a desktop replacement strategy for older hardware on campus, and to replace the current lab environment in these locations with a VDI environment.  This is now complete and we are currently monitoring usage and ensuring that the platform is stable.  There are a number of possibilities we are keen to explore, and hope to provide in the near future:

  • Roaming user profiles:  This allows users to customise their profile (e.g. desktop background, browser shortcuts, application settings), and have these customisations apply no matter where they log in.
  • Student device access:  By installing a small software client, this will allow students to access a virtual desktop on their own device (be it a laptop, tablet or phone).  This will ease the pressure on the requirement for a lab PC to access the software they need, especially during busy periods.