Microsoft VDI vs VMware View: Which Virtual Desktop Solution Reigns Supreme?

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In today's business world, virtualization has become a necessary tool for many organizations. With the increasing number of employees working remotely, companies are looking for ways to provide secure and reliable access to corporate resources from anywhere in the world. Two of the most popular solutions for virtualization are Microsoft VDI and VMware View. Both offer unique features and benefits, making it difficult for organizations to decide which one to choose. In this article, we will explore the differences between Microsoft VDI vs VMware View and help you determine which solution is right for your organization.

Firstly, let's take a closer look at Microsoft VDI. This solution provides a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) environment that allows users to access their desktops and applications from any device, anywhere. One of the key benefits of Microsoft VDI is its integration with other Microsoft products such as Active Directory, System Center, and Remote Desktop Services. This integration makes it easy to manage and deploy virtual machines across the organization. Additionally, Microsoft VDI supports a wide range of devices including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

On the other hand, VMware View is a virtual desktop infrastructure solution that provides a secure, flexible, and scalable platform for delivering virtual desktops and applications to end-users. One of the key benefits of VMware View is its ability to deliver high-quality graphics and multimedia experiences to users. This is achieved through the use of PCoIP technology, which provides a high-definition user experience even over low bandwidth connections. Another benefit of VMware View is its integration with VMware vSphere, which enables organizations to manage their virtualized infrastructure more efficiently.

When it comes to pricing, both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer different licensing models. Microsoft VDI is licensed through the Microsoft Virtual Desktop Access (VDA) program, which requires a subscription fee per device or user. On the other hand, VMware View is licensed through the VMware Horizon Suite, which offers a variety of licensing options based on the number of users and features required.

Another important factor to consider when choosing between Microsoft VDI vs VMware View is security. Both solutions offer robust security features such as multi-factor authentication, encryption, and access control. However, VMware View has an advantage in this area with its ability to leverage vShield Endpoint for antivirus protection and virtual machine isolation.

When it comes to performance, both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer excellent performance when properly configured. However, VMware View has an advantage in this area due to its use of PCoIP technology, which provides a high-quality user experience even over low bandwidth connections.

One area where Microsoft VDI has an advantage over VMware View is in its integration with other Microsoft products. This integration makes it easy to manage and deploy virtual machines across the organization and provides a seamless user experience for users who are already familiar with Microsoft products.

When it comes to support, both Microsoft and VMware offer excellent support options for their respective solutions. Microsoft offers support through its Premier Support program, which provides 24/7 support and access to Microsoft experts. VMware offers support through its Global Support Services program, which provides technical support and access to VMware experts.

In conclusion, both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different organizations. When choosing between the two, it is important to consider factors such as pricing, security, performance, integration, and support to determine which solution is best for your organization's specific needs.


Introduction

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology that enables users to access desktops remotely from any device. Microsoft and VMware are the two most prominent players in the VDI market. Both companies offer their own VDI solutions, Microsoft VDI and VMware View. In this article, we will compare Microsoft VDI and VMware View and help you choose the best solution for your business.

Microsoft VDI

Microsoft VDI is a virtualization solution that allows organizations to create and manage virtual desktops and applications. It is a part of Microsoft's Remote Desktop Services (RDS) suite of tools. Microsoft VDI is based on the Hyper-V hypervisor and can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud.

Features of Microsoft VDI

Microsoft VDI offers several features that make it a compelling solution for organizations:

  • RemoteFX: This feature provides a rich user experience by enabling the use of 3D graphics, video, and multimedia applications.
  • App-V Integration: Microsoft VDI integrates with App-V, which allows applications to be virtualized and streamed to the user's device.
  • System Center Integration: Microsoft VDI can be managed using System Center Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), which provides a centralized management console for virtual machines.
  • Windows 10 Enterprise Virtual Desktop: Microsoft VDI also offers a Windows 10 Enterprise Virtual Desktop that provides a fully-managed desktop experience in the cloud.

VMware View

VMware View is a virtual desktop infrastructure solution that allows organizations to provide remote access to desktops and applications. VMware View is based on the vSphere hypervisor and can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud.

Features of VMware View

VMware View offers several features that make it a compelling solution for organizations:

  • PCoIP: This feature provides a high-quality user experience by enabling the use of 3D graphics, video, and multimedia applications.
  • Horizon Application Manager: VMware View integrates with Horizon Application Manager, which allows administrators to manage and deliver virtual applications to users.
  • Unified Access Gateway: VMware View also offers Unified Access Gateway, which provides secure remote access to virtual desktops and applications.
  • App Volumes: VMware View can also be used with App Volumes, which enables applications to be virtualized and delivered on-demand to the user's device.

Comparison of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

Now that we have looked at the features of both Microsoft VDI and VMware View, let's compare them:

Cost

Microsoft VDI is generally less expensive than VMware View. Microsoft VDI is included with Windows Server and can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud. VMware View requires the purchase of additional licenses and may require the use of third-party tools.

User Experience

Both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer a high-quality user experience. RemoteFX and PCoIP provide a rich user experience by enabling the use of 3D graphics, video, and multimedia applications.

Management

Microsoft VDI can be managed using System Center Virtual Machine Manager, which provides a centralized management console for virtual machines. VMware View can be managed using vSphere, which provides a centralized management console for virtual machines and hosts.

Integration

Microsoft VDI integrates with App-V, which allows applications to be virtualized and streamed to the user's device. VMware View integrates with Horizon Application Manager, which allows administrators to manage and deliver virtual applications to users.

Conclusion

Both Microsoft VDI and VMware View are powerful solutions for organizations looking to implement a virtual desktop infrastructure. The choice between the two solutions ultimately depends on your organization's specific needs and requirements. We hope that this article has helped you make an informed decision about which solution is best for your business.


Overview of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology that allows users to access a complete desktop environment remotely. Microsoft and VMware are two leading companies that provide VDI solutions, Microsoft with its Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and VMware with its VMware View. Both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer virtualization technologies that enable organizations to deploy and manage virtual desktops from a central location, delivering applications and data to any device over the network.

Differences between Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The most significant difference between Microsoft VDI and VMware View is their approach to virtualization. Microsoft uses a server-based model, where desktops are hosted on a central server and accessed remotely by users. On the other hand, VMware View uses a client-based model, where desktops are hosted on individual virtual machines (VMs) and accessed via a client application.

Another significant difference between the two solutions is their licensing and costs. Microsoft VDI requires licenses for Windows Server, Remote Desktop Services, and Client Access Licenses (CALs). In contrast, VMware View requires licenses for VMware Horizon View and VMware vSphere infrastructure. The costs of both solutions can vary depending on the size of the organization and the number of users.

Licensing and costs of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

Microsoft VDI requires a license for Windows Server, which includes the Remote Desktop Services role. Additionally, each user or device accessing the virtual desktop environment requires a Remote Desktop Services CAL. The cost of a Windows Server license varies depending on the edition, ranging from Standard to Datacenter. A Remote Desktop Services CAL can be purchased as a per-user or per-device license.

VMware View requires a license for VMware Horizon View, which provides the desktop virtualization component. Additionally, VMware vSphere infrastructure is required to support the virtual machines that host the desktops. The cost of VMware Horizon View varies depending on the edition, ranging from Standard to Enterprise. The cost of VMware vSphere infrastructure varies depending on the edition and the number of processors in the server.

Deployment and installation processes of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The deployment and installation processes of Microsoft VDI and VMware View are different due to their approach to virtualization. Microsoft VDI requires a central server running Windows Server with the Remote Desktop Services role installed. The Remote Desktop Services role provides the necessary components to deliver virtual desktops to users, including the Remote Desktop Session Host, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, and RemoteFX. The installation process involves configuring these components and creating virtual desktop collections.

VMware View requires a virtualization infrastructure built on VMware vSphere, which hosts the virtual machines that provide the desktops. The installation process involves setting up the vSphere infrastructure, installing the VMware Horizon View Connection Server, and configuring the virtual desktop pools. Additionally, client applications must be installed on user devices to access the virtual desktop environment.

Performance and scalability of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The performance and scalability of Microsoft VDI and VMware View depend on several factors, including the hardware and network infrastructure, the number of users, and the workload requirements. Both solutions can scale horizontally and vertically to meet the demands of the organization.

Microsoft VDI relies on the RemoteFX technology to deliver a high-quality user experience. RemoteFX uses GPU hardware acceleration to provide a rich multimedia experience and supports multiple monitors, touch input, and USB redirection. Microsoft VDI can scale up to 1000 concurrent users per server, and multiple servers can be combined to create a larger deployment.

VMware View uses the PCoIP (PC-over-IP) protocol to deliver a high-performance user experience. PCoIP uses advanced compression and encoding techniques to deliver a responsive desktop environment, even over low-bandwidth networks. VMware View can scale up to 2000 concurrent users per cluster, and multiple clusters can be combined to create a larger deployment.

Security features of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The security features of Microsoft VDI and VMware View are designed to protect the virtual desktop environment from unauthorized access and data breaches. Both solutions offer several security features, including authentication, authorization, and encryption.

Microsoft VDI provides several security features, including Remote Desktop Gateway, which enables secure remote access to the virtual desktop environment, and Remote Desktop Connection Broker, which provides load balancing and connection management. RemoteFX also supports advanced security features, such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption and smart card authentication.

VMware View provides several security features, including Horizon View Security Server, which provides secure remote access to the virtual desktop environment, and View Composer, which provides a secure way to deploy and manage virtual desktops. PCoIP also supports advanced security features, such as SSL encryption and two-factor authentication.

Compatibility and integration with other software and hardware

The compatibility and integration of Microsoft VDI and VMware View with other software and hardware depend on the specific requirements of the organization. Both solutions are compatible with a wide range of hardware and software, including hypervisors, storage systems, and networking equipment.

Microsoft VDI is compatible with several hypervisors, including Hyper-V, VMware ESXi, and Citrix XenServer. It also supports a wide range of storage systems, including Storage Spaces Direct, iSCSI, and Fibre Channel. Microsoft VDI integrates with other Microsoft technologies, such as Active Directory and System Center Configuration Manager.

VMware View is compatible with VMware vSphere hypervisor and supports several storage systems, including vSAN, NFS, and iSCSI. It also integrates with other VMware technologies, such as VMware vRealize Operations and VMware NSX for network virtualization.

User experience and interface of Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The user experience and interface of Microsoft VDI and VMware View depend on several factors, including the client device, the network connection, and the workload requirements. Both solutions provide a similar user experience, with access to a complete desktop environment and a range of applications.

Microsoft VDI provides a familiar Windows-based interface, with access to a range of productivity applications, such as Microsoft Office and Internet Explorer. RemoteFX enables a rich multimedia experience, including video playback and 3D graphics. The user experience can be customized using Group Policy settings and RemoteApp programs.

VMware View provides a flexible interface that can be customized to meet the specific requirements of the organization. The interface includes access to a range of applications, including VMware ThinApp and Microsoft Office. PCoIP enables a responsive desktop environment, even over low-bandwidth networks. The interface can be customized using VMware Horizon View Administrator.

Support and maintenance options for Microsoft VDI and VMware View

The support and maintenance options for Microsoft VDI and VMware View depend on the specific requirements of the organization and the level of support required. Both solutions offer several support and maintenance options, including technical support, software updates, and training.

Microsoft offers several support options for Microsoft VDI, including online support, phone support, and Premier Support. Software updates are provided through Windows Update or Microsoft Update. Microsoft also offers training and certification programs for Microsoft VDI, including Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT).

VMware offers several support options for VMware View, including online support, phone support, and VMware Premier Support. Software updates are provided through VMware vSphere Update Manager. VMware also offers training and certification programs for VMware View, including VMware Certified Professional (VCP) and VMware Certified Instructor (VCI).

Choosing the right virtual desktop infrastructure solution for your organization

Choosing the right virtual desktop infrastructure solution for your organization depends on several factors, including the size of the organization, the number of users, and the workload requirements. Both Microsoft VDI and VMware View offer robust virtualization technologies that can meet the demands of most organizations.

If your organization is already using Microsoft technologies, such as Windows Server and Active Directory, Microsoft VDI may be the best choice. Microsoft VDI provides a familiar interface and integrates with other Microsoft technologies. If your organization requires a high-performance user experience and advanced security features, VMware View may be the best choice. VMware View provides advanced features, such as PCoIP and Horizon View Security Server, that can deliver a secure and responsive desktop environment.


Microsoft VDI vs VMware View: A Comparison

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology that enables users to access virtual desktops from anywhere, on any device. With VDI, companies can centralize their IT infrastructure and provide secure remote access to their employees. Two of the most popular VDI solutions in the market are Microsoft VDI and VMware View. Let's take a closer look at both of them.

Microsoft VDI

Microsoft VDI is a part of the Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) suite of products. It provides a complete VDI solution that includes all the necessary components such as Remote Desktop Session Host, Remote Desktop Connection Broker, Remote Desktop Gateway, and Remote Desktop Web Access. Microsoft VDI offers several advantages:

  1. Integrated with Active Directory for easy user management
  2. Supports Hyper-V as the hypervisor
  3. Offers RemoteFX for enhanced graphics performance
  4. Includes System Center Virtual Machine Manager for managing virtual machines

VMware View

VMware View is a part of the VMware Horizon suite of products. It provides a comprehensive VDI solution that includes features such as VMware vSphere for virtualization, VMware ThinApp for application virtualization, and VMware Workspace ONE for unified endpoint management. VMware View offers several advantages:

  1. Supports multiple hypervisors including VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer
  2. Provides a range of client devices for accessing virtual desktops
  3. Offers Blast Extreme for high-performance remote display protocol
  4. Includes vRealize Operations for monitoring and managing VDI environments

Comparison

When it comes to choosing between Microsoft VDI and VMware View, there are several factors to consider:

Feature Microsoft VDI VMware View
Hypervisor support Hyper-V Multiple hypervisors
Graphics performance RemoteFX Blast Extreme
Management System Center Virtual Machine Manager vRealize Operations
Client devices Limited Wide range

Ultimately, the choice between Microsoft VDI and VMware View depends on the specific needs of your organization. Both solutions offer powerful VDI capabilities and a range of features to meet the demands of any enterprise.


Closing Message

In conclusion, choosing between Microsoft VDI and VMware View can be a daunting task. Both solutions have unique features and capabilities that can address your organization's needs. However, it's essential to evaluate each solution based on your environment, budget, and specific requirements.Before making any decision, you should consider the goals of your virtual desktop infrastructure deployment. Are you looking for a solution that provides a seamless user experience? Do you want a solution that offers excellent performance, scalability, and management capabilities? Or are you looking for a solution that can integrate with your existing IT infrastructure?By answering these questions, you can identify the right solution that meets your business needs. Additionally, you should also consider the level of technical expertise required to implement and manage the solution. If your IT team has experience with Microsoft technologies, then Microsoft VDI might be the right choice. On the other hand, if your IT team is comfortable with VMware products, then VMware View might be the better option.Another critical factor to consider is the total cost of ownership (TCO) of each solution. While Microsoft VDI and VMware View have different licensing models, both solutions require upfront investments in hardware, software, and IT resources. Therefore, it's essential to evaluate the TCO of each solution over its lifetime.Finally, it's worth noting that Microsoft VDI and VMware View are just two of many virtual desktop infrastructure solutions available in the market. Other options include Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, Amazon WorkSpaces, and Parallels Remote Application Server, among others. Therefore, before making any decision, it's crucial to research and compare multiple solutions to find the one that best fits your business needs.In conclusion, choosing between Microsoft VDI and VMware View requires careful consideration of several factors, including your organization's goals, technical expertise, TCO, and other available options. By doing your research and evaluating each solution based on its merits, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your organization in the long run.

People Also Ask about Microsoft VDI vs VMware View

What is Microsoft VDI?

Microsoft VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) is a desktop virtualization solution that allows users to access their Windows operating system and applications through a remote desktop connection.

What is VMware View?

VMware View is another desktop virtualization solution that enables users to access their virtual desktops and applications from any device, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

What are the differences between Microsoft VDI and VMware View?

1. Architecture

  • Microsoft VDI uses Remote Desktop Services (RDS) to deliver virtual desktops and applications to users.
  • VMware View uses a three-tiered architecture that includes Connection Server, Security Server, and View Agent components.

2. Licensing

  • Microsoft VDI requires licensing for both the server and client access, which can be expensive for larger organizations.
  • VMware View offers more flexible licensing options, with a pay-per-user model that can reduce costs for larger deployments.

3. Management

  • Microsoft VDI provides centralized management through its Remote Desktop Manager console.
  • VMware View offers a web-based management console that provides more granular control over virtual desktops and applications.

4. Integration

  • Microsoft VDI integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products, such as Active Directory and System Center.
  • VMware View integrates well with other VMware products, such as vSphere and Horizon Suite.

Which is better, Microsoft VDI or VMware View?

Both Microsoft VDI and VMware View have their strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right solution depends on your organization's specific needs and requirements. It is best to evaluate both solutions thoroughly before making a decision.