The term “Virtual machine” refers to software that allows you to load an operating system inside. This program can be used to run a virtual desktop. If you want to know how to deploy a virtual machine from a VDI desktop, continue reading this step-by-step guide.
Virtual machines are those that make the operation of a VDI environment possible. Through a hypervisor, a process called virtualization of servers.
They work as if it were a physical computer. They are useful, especially in the professional field, thanks to their dynamism and safety.
What is a VDI and what is it for in computing?
Abbreviations “VDI“Mean “Virtual Desktop Infrastructure”, which is translated into Spanish as “Virtual Desktops Infrastructure”. However, What is a VDI and what is it for in computing? A VDI is a form of desktop virtualization. It consists of hosting and managing a virtual desktop on a central server, which is distributed to users.
By means of a hypervisor, the user can divide the servers into virtual machines. These machines host the virtual desktops, which the user can access remotely from their computer or any other device.
There are two types of infrastructures, persistent and non-persistent:
- A persistent VDI: It is the one that can be configured according to the user’s needs. At all times, even if the connection is restarted, the person will connect to the same desktop and the changes made will be saved. Basically, it behaves the same as a physical computer.
- non-persistent VDIs: are those where users establish a connection with generic writers. It is a special type of VDI for jobs that involve repetitive tasks, since it is not necessary to maintain a personalized desktop.
To make use of a virtual desktop infrastructure, you need to install a hypervisor. It is a program that allows you to run virtual machines. Hypervisors are responsible for intertwining the resources of the physical computer with those of the machines. It can be an open source software or a proprietary version.
There are two classes of hypervisors, Type I and Type II:
- Type I hypervisors: they are those that run directly on the hardware. It works as an intercom between the computer and the virtual components. Examples of these are: Citrix, VMware ESXi or Hyper V.
- Type II hypervisors: refers to virtualization software that is installed on a base operating system. For example, you can use Windows 10 and, with a virtual machine, use Windows 7. Examples of these are: VirtualBox and VMware Workstation.
What is a VDI for?
Based on all of the above, you are likely wondering: What are virtual machines and VDI environments for? Well, you will be interested to know that running a virtual machine on the computer has different purposes.
Between them:
- Try different operating systems: The process of installing a new operating system can be somewhat cumbersome. So you can use a virtual machine to test it. Thus, you do not compromise the computer.
- Use old apps: As technology advances, many programs become obsolete for new computers. Virtual machines allow you to use an old operating system that can run the program you need, without complications.
- Use applications from other systems: You do not need to buy a Linux computer to use Linux programs. You can run a virtual machine on a Windows computer, create a virtual desktop with Linux, and start using its applications. It works vice versa and also with other operating systems.
- Test an application on various systems: In case you are a programmer, it is essential to check if the application works on multiple operating systems. Virtual machines facilitate such a function.
Also, virtual machines are considered secure and dynamic serversSince the information stored on the desktop is not stored on the computer, and your documents can be transferred from one hardware to another without impairing its operation.
What are the benefits and limitations of deploying a virtual machine from a VDI?
Virtual desktops can be complex. However, the use of a VDI It offers multiple advantages for companies that decide to use it. For this reason it is essential to know what are the benefits and limitations of deploying a virtual machine from a VDI. On the one hand, the virtual desktop infrastructure gives the user the possibility to obtain remote access, since they can be connected from any device, allowing to work anywhere in the world.
Similarly, make use of a VDI represents a huge economic saving, as it is not necessary to invest in new hardware. Likewise, they are recognized for being safe environments. The worked data is stored in the server and not on the device. Finally, as it is a centralized server, all patches, updates or configurations are applicable to all virtual desktops in the system, which facilitates the modernization process.
Thanks to all these benefits, virtual machines deployed in VDI environments lend themselves to:
- Make use of personal devices in work environments.
- Do chores specific.
- To work so remote.
However, the use of virtual machines involves a very important limitation: performance. Although computers and machines are more powerful every year, running two operating systems on the same computer is still a huge strain on the hardware, which can significantly slow down processes.
Notably virtualization does not work exactly the same as a native operating system on the computer. Therefore, it affects certain aspects of those programs that require a lot of resources for their correct operation.
Learn step by step how to deploy a virtual machine from a VDI
To make using a virtual machine from a VDI, it is necessary to install a hypervisor on the computer that allows you to create a new division of the computer. There are many applications. On this occasion, we use VirtualBox.
Therefore, learn step by step how to deploy a virtual machine from a VDI:
Install VirtualBox
The installation of the program is not really complicated. Login to the portal “www.virtualbox.org” and select the version that corresponds to the architecture of your equipment. Leave the default installation options and hit “following”. The application is free and its memory consumption is balanced. Read each option carefully to know where the machine is kept.
Virtual machine configuration
After installing VirtualBox on your computer, it’s time to create a virtual machine. Enter the main page of VirtualBox and click on “New”. There are no creation limits for virtual machines. However, it is recommended not to run all of them at the same time. Now, you just have to follow the steps of the creation wizard. Enter a name for the machine and select the operating system and version you want to use.
You will have to allocate the amount of RAM that you want to allocate to the virtual machine. It is recommended to use the amount that comes by default. Then choose the size of the virtual disk, which works as a simulation of a HDD. The default format is VDI. Finally, enter a name to recognize the disc.
Run the virtual machine
When you’ve finished configuring the virtual machine, it’s time to run it for the first time. Initially, works like a computer without operating system, so you should have an installer on hand for the system you want to test. Linux, for example, it provides a free ISO image from its official website. Windows, otherwise, you will need an installation disc.
Select the virtual machine from the main window of VirtualBox so it can detect the operating system installer. Click on “Parameters” and then in “Storage”. After that, you need to click on the CD / DVD icon. You must select between the two allowed options: virtual disk (ISO) or physical disk.
Click on “To accept” and proceed to start the virtual machine. The startup will be similar to that of a computer. If you wish, you can use it in mode “Window” or “Fullscreen”. Next, you just have to follow the installation steps of the operating system. All changes made only affect the virtual machine.
Make some final adjustments
Finish the installation of the operating system. You can install tools that facilitate communication between the virtual machine and your computer. Proceed to add new components and other pertinent elements. Remember that the machine works like a computer. You can turn off, turn on, edit, or restart.