Desktop virtualization as no-brainer, nearly there

Implications: Desktop virtualization has always been an enticing proposition, but it was never able to overcome the practical limitations, and more importantly never gained acceptance from the user base.  However, the proliferation and acceptance of browser based applications, proliferation of high capacity networks; improved technology, concerns for security, and the need for cost efficiencies will ultimately lead to wide-spread acceptance and massive deployments.

Analysis: As a long term user of Citrix Desktop Virtualization solutions we have realized the lower TCO (total cost of ownership) and simplified security that comes with centralized management of desktops.  We have also experienced the limitations of both the technology (some apps simply don't work) and the debatable need for users to have flexible control over their PCs.  However, several significant trends are pushing the benefits and overcoming the objections:

1) Proliferation of Browser Based Applications

Besides MS-Office, a large portion of applications are being implemented through a browser based user interface.  ASP systems like Salesforce, as well as in-house deployed vendor packages and custom developed applications use the browser.  Even the most popular user-requested applications from Google and Wikipedia to YouTube and Facebook all can be run from a thin client, virtualized desktop.  Even MS-Office works well in Citrix or other virtualized desk top.

2) High Speed Networks Proliferation

High speed networks and network acceleration technologies from Cisco, Avaya, F1, Juniper, and others, including the ability access the network from just about anywhere greatly reduces the need to have individual PC/laptops.  Applications work nearly as fast and will only get better.  This also allows new devices like the Apple iTouch to be more of a desktop replacement.

3) Security

Almost goes without saying how dramatically more a virtualized desktop can be controlled, secured, and audited.  Regulated industries like financial services and health care, as well as general controls cited in Sarbanes Oxley are significantly less expensive to comply with under virtualization.

4) Cost – Virtualized desktops have a very fast ROI.  

5) Cool Factor  

Cool, as in highly desirable to an envious degree.  The mystique created by VMware’s server virtualization, as well as the general acceptance that the web applications are better than things you install with a CD onto a PC will continue to overrule the remaining objections about taking someone’s PC away.  

So, there will be a lot more virtualized desktop devices from HP-Neoware and Wyse being ordered by the enbd of the year.  High end desktops will become a specialty item for graphic designers and others.  More cool hand held devices from RIM and Apple.  Way fewer traditional desktops and laptops.  At some point before the 2012, Microsoft Windows desktop operating systems will also be a fond memory.