Endpoint Virtualization - A Game Changer

In computing, virtualization is a concept that has existed for decades. It refers to the abstraction of computer resources and was first used to increase mainframe productivity. More recently, server virtualization has become popular in the data center because it offers higher availability of resources, significant energy savings and a way to lower IT costs.

But while server virtualization has succeeded in allowing IT departments to create a more efficient data center, it does little to fully address the challenges associated with managing and protecting desktops and laptops. Nor is server virtualization able to tackle the issues organizations face in trying to securely deliver applications, services and data to partners and customers.

Overcoming endpoint challenges requires an infrastructure that provides the freedom for users to transparently bridge across legacy Windows applications, applications that are migrating to virtual datacenters and external Internet-based services. The architecture must also facilitate the delivery of operating environments that IT can control and manage with less complexity and at a lower cost.

Endpoint virtualization offers a new approach for simplifying the management of endpoints while providing essential security and performance improvements. Business applications and services operate in a trusted environment "outside of Windows." Endpoint virtualization also gives the context necessary for IT to control the endpoint as a thin client on the corporate LAN, remote access device or as a local PC depending on performance and security needs.

Organizations that embrace endpoint virtualization will realize significant benefits of a common infrastructure to efficiently and securely enable deployment of applications, data and services across the distributed enterprise.