Layering technology makes VDI backup and recovery more efficient

The ability to separate virtual desktops into independently managed operating system, application, and personalization "layers" has lots of natural benefits. Sharing a single layer of Microsoft Windows and single layers of applications like Microsoft Office across many VDI desktops drastically reduces storage requirements. Having only a single image to manage greatly simplifies and error-proofs provisioning, patching, and app delivery. And being able to change the underlying Windows and app layers without affecting the personalization layer means users enjoy a completely tailored user experience that goes beyond profiles to sustain everything they do - user-installed apps, plug-ins, local documents, etc.

But what about VDI backup and recovery? Can layering technology improve this? The answer is a resounding yes.

By using layers, you now only have to worry about differential backups of the user personalization layer. Because the operating system and application layers are stored once centrally and replicated as needed, these layers don't need to be backed up over and over again. This dramatically reduces the time it takes to protect your virtual desktops. Compared to traditional backup methodologies, you'll realize major storage savings, since redundant data is eliminated from the backups, as well as a reduction in infrastructure overhead.

And don't worry, you'll stil be able to meet business-driven Recovery Point Objectives (RPOs) and Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs). VDI users who lose their virtual desktop hosts or storage can have their desktops rebuilt quickly from the layers, without requiring costly HA storage. Just let the operating system and application layers replicate back down to a new host and storage, compose the personalization layer on top, and voila, your VDI users have their completely personalized desktops back again.

As a former backup geek, I think this is pretty cool.

You'll be able to exeperience this ultra low-cost backup and recovery capability soon in an upcoming Unidesk release. Just another example of how Unidesk's desktop layering technology can make VDI better, and ensure customer success!

- Nicole Reineke
Director of Product Management

PS Do you have product feedback? Are you interested in discussing our roadmap or seeing a preview of this new capability? Please send me a note at nreineke <at> unidesk.com. I would love to have the opportunity to talk with you!