Nothing stored on the client:<\/strong> No data resides on the thin client, reducing theft and data-security risk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nWhat are the benefits of using a virtual desktop?<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBetter Security<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When you access a virtual desktop, you are connecting to a computer within the college’s secure internal network. These advanced security systems provide improved protection against malware and other threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Virtual desktops are disposable and allow for rapid recovery if any problems occur. If the virtual machine is compromised or corrupted, it can be remotely repaired or replaced without requiring an office visit from a technician. Similarly, if your device used to access the virtual desktop stops working, it can be simply swapped out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Administrators can allocate resources to users as needed. This approach replaces the one-size fits all practice, which can provide far more computing power than needed to users that simply browse the web, check email and produce documents. Because a virtual desktop isn’t tied to the client device’s hardware, even older computers can act as remote access clients for faster virtual desktops. Connecting an outdated system to a virtual desktop lets it perform like a modern machine, reducing slowness. This allows users with low-powered home computers to delay upgrades or avoid bringing work laptops home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flexibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Support staff can access and resolve issues remotely, eliminating time consuming office troubleshooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Users can be assigned several virtual desktops, allowing a gradual transition between the current version of Windows and a newer version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anywhere Access<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These desktops can be accessed from multiple devices both on and off campus if there is an internet connection, making anywhere access a key advantage. Reliable performance can be achieved using basic cable and DSL connections or MiFi hotspots. Security is maintained when using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those at conferences, hotels, or other locations. All communications with the college are fully encrypted and protected using SSL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sustainability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Shared hardware means a minimal carbon footprint and little e-waste, reflecting the college’s environmental commitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Virtual Desktop Security<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Multi-factor Authentication:<\/strong> All off\u2011campus access by faculty and staff requires Microsoft multi\u2011factor authentication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Encrypted in Transit:<\/strong> Every connection with the college is fully encrypted over SSL \u2014 safe even on public Wi\u2011Fi at hotels or conferences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Secured Internal Network:<\/strong> Virtual desktops sit inside the college’s protected network, with advanced defenses against malware and other threats.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Disposable & Recoverable:<\/strong> If a desktop is compromised or corrupted, it is remotely repaired or replaced without a technician visit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Storage, Drives & Devices<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Disk & Storage:<\/strong> Thin clients ship with a 60GB C: drive. Store your important data on the network drives or in My Documents. Local-drive storage is not supported.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cameras & Dual Monitors:<\/strong> Coordinate camera installs with IET. Most laptop and all-in-one cameras work, as well as supported Logitech models. Dual monitors work on thin clients and laptops via HDMI.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- USB Devices:<\/strong> Thin clients support USB natively. For faster home use, format the stick as FAT32; allow the quick scan-and-repair if prompted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Drive Mappings:<\/strong> Drives are assigned by user ID, department, and collaboration groups. Extra numbered drives identify the workstation or home PC you’re connecting from.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Below you will find basic information about virtual desktops. For more information, visit these pages: What is a virtual desktop? A virtual desktop is a full Windows environment that runs as software on shared servers in the college data center \u2014 not on a personal laptop or desktop. Virginia Western uses virtual desktops to manage […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":11536,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"postBodyCss":"","postBodyMargin":[],"postBodyPadding":[],"postBodyBackground":{"backgroundType":"classic","gradient":""},"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-11561","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"featured_image_src":null,"yoast_head":"\n
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