Windows Virtual Desktop vs Citrix. Which one should you invest in as you double-down on infrastructure that supports remote work and mobility in your business?
Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is going through a period of unprecedented popularity right now. This can be attributed to the huge rise in the remote working needs of almost all organisations. If you are looking to adopt VDI solutions for your organisation, Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops and Windows Virtual Desktop are among the best options. These two providers dominate the VDI segment.
If you’ve found yourself asking Windows Virtual Desktop or Citrix? We’ve listed some key differences to help with your decision.
Windows Virtual Desktop vs Citrix – The initial benefits
| Windows Virtual Desktop | Citrix | |
|---|---|---|
| IMPLEMENTATION / SET UP | LOW COST All you’ll need is an Azure subscription, fewer days of consultancy, and a Microsoft 365 license, or separate Windows Virtual Desktop license. |
HIGH COST Requires multiple on-premise servers to be built first, a Windows Server operating system, the Windows RDS cals, Citrix on top and then consultancy for the setup. You’ll also need Office Pro Plus, hardware anvd ongoing specialist support services for a Citrix environment. |
| LICENSING | LOW COST AND INCLUDED IN MICROSOFT 365 You don’t need a server or Citrix licence costs, so WVD works out cheaper per user. |
HIGH COST Requires server and additional Citrix license costs. |
| ACCESSIBILITY / ORGANISATION SIZE | ANY WVD offers a faster and more affordable setup for all sized organisations without requiring advanced IT intervention. |
ENTERPRISE While Citrix has many advanced features, the cost of implementation and maintenance is high. However, not all businesses [especially small ones] require or want to pay for these capabilities. |
Windows Virtual Desktop vs Citrix – What else to consider?
So, we’ve covered the implementation, the costs and which organisations would be better suited to each solution. However, once you’ve finished implementation what should you expect? Keep reading to find out why we think Windows Virtual Desktop comes out on top.
| Windows Virtual Desktop | Citrix | |
|---|---|---|
| DESKTOP EXPERIENCE | GOOD WVD provides a standard Windows 10 desktop experience. From a usability perspective this is useful for users who are already familiar with Windows 10. |
MORE COMPLEX Citrix users are presented with a Windows Server operating system. For users acquainted to Windows 10, this is a different experience which can prove challenging. It is possible to configure Windows 10 desktops on Citrix, but this can incur additional costs. |
| ADMIN EXPERIENCE/CAPABILITY | EASY With Microsoft Windows Virtual desktop, IT administrators can centrally administer the infrastructure from the cloud. |
EASY Simplified administration is provided through a unified Citrix Cloud console. |
| SECURITY | STRONG SECURITY WVD provides adequate security measures based on the strong security features of the Azure cloud. |
STRONG SECURITY Citrix provides extensive enterprise security features, including FIPS compliance, Common Criteria certification, Microsoft Credential Guard compliance, multi-factor authentication, smart card integration, ICA proxy, and more. |
| PERFORMANCE | STRONGER FOR TEAMS, OFFICE / MICROSOFT 365 WVD provides the best Office 365 pro plus and only multi-session Windows 10. |
GOOD CONTROL Citrix provides good bandwidth control when paired with SD-WAN but an additional license required. |
Both WVD and Citrix have their benefits. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your business and the resources available at hand.
Interested in learning more about Windows Virtual Desktop? Download our Windows Virtual Desktop guide with everything you need to know about the solution. Or if you’re looking to find out more about our services you can contact our team here.
