HP Virtual Desktop Infrastructure with Citrix XenDesktop

HP Virtual Desktop Infrastructure is an end-to-end client virtualization solution based on the best managed and virtualization-ready HP ProLiant and BladeSystem servers, HP StorageWorks storage, and HP Thin Client access devices.

HP VDI is a desktop replacement solution that provides IT teams with the flexibility to quickly deliver and refresh desktops, reduces the threat of potential data loss or theft, lowers the complexity and cost of desktop management, and provides end-users with the functionality of a stand-alone desktop.

The new HP VDI offering is rich in feature set and significantly improves the end user experience. HP VDI with Citrix XenDesktop includes the HP integrated XenServer and ProLiant Virtual Console bundle which provides simplified configuration and performance management. Designed for new users of desktop virtualization, HP VDI with Citrix solution provides easy to use front-end interfaces and can be seamlessly integrated into your existing system infrastructure.

HP VDI with Citrix XenDesktop is announcing new XenDesktop 4 which includes full capabilities of XenApp. XenDesktop4 can now deliver everything from a single application to a complete Windows desktop experience to any user, anywhere.

• The enhanced XenDesktop 4 dynamically selects the best method of delivering applications – offline or online - to each user and device. Applications can be hosted centrally and delivered via Citrix HDX Technology for use while online, or streamed directly to the endpoint and run in an isolated environment for use when offline.
• XenDesktop 4 isolates applications and delivers zero application conflict.
• The new XenDesktop also provides a Desk-like access – By using the Repeater acceleration feature in conjunction with the Secure Access Client, users can now enjoy the same network experience and application access as if physically connected to the local network.

• HP now provides a new Platinum edition for XenDesktop. This end-to-end virtual desktop (VDI) and desktop management solution is feature rich and provides virtual application delivery, for the most flexible user access, complete performance monitoring and QoS capabilities.
• With this new edition, customers now have the choice of 2 editions – Enterprise and Platinum. Upgrade SKUs are available to assist with moves from one edition to another.

• HP VDI with Citrix XenDesktop now includes the retail version of Citrix XenServer and Citrix Essentials for XenServer, Enterprise edition. The latest XenServer 5.5 enables easier management and broader integration with enterprise systems.
• The Essentials for XenServer, Enterprise Edition provides integration with native storage services, workload balancing, high availability and performance monitoring and reporting.
• Workflow Studio Orchestration is a free add-on available with all the editions. It provides an easy-to-use, graphical interface for workflow composition that virtually eliminates scripting. Workflow Studio acts as the glue across the IT infrastructure allowing administrators to easily tie technology components together via workflows.

• Named User Licensing - Citrix XenDesktop 4 pricing and licensing is changing to align with desktop licensing models. With this new release, XenDesktop will be offered on a “named user license”, replacing the  “concurrent virtual desktop” license

• All the sensitive data is moved to centralized data centers safeguarding information against desktop thefts
• Client data is covered under the business continuity and disaster recovery plan for data center
• Provides anytime/anywhere access of applications and data for convenience, business continuity and disaster recovery

• The virtual desktop infrastructure allows to move all the applications and data in centralized data centers resulting in reduced costs involved in desktop management
• Centralized patching and upgrades minimize the cost and effort involved in applying security patches or software updates
• Upgrades require no action at the end users access device

• The memory and resource pooling features assist in increasing resource utilization and containing power and energy costs
• Thin clients are designed to consume very low energy (20W) against the traditional desktops (120W)

1. Get Citrix XenDesktop Express directly from Citrix. Support for XenDesktop Express is provided by Citrix through its user forums and not by HP
2. Purchase the HP VDI with Citrix XenDesktop Enterprise Edition for 20 NUs. Click the ‘Buy’ button at the top of this page to access the store or contact your HP reseller or account manager.