Desktop Virtualization Solutions Comparison: VDI, DaaS & Remote Desktop Options for Beginners

Updated on Nov 22, 2025

7 min read

Imagine working in an office where desks are shared rather than owned; this is similar to desktop virtualization. In this guide, we’ll explore how desktop virtualization works and compare key solutions—VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure), DaaS (Desktop as a Service), RDS (Remote Desktop Services), and application virtualization. This article is tailored for beginners, entry-level sysadmins, and small business owners who are looking to make informed decisions on virtualization solutions. Expect insights on costs, performance, security, and an actionable checklist to kickstart your evaluation process.

Key Types of Desktop Virtualization (VDI, DaaS, RDS, App Virtualization)

Here are the main types you’ll encounter:

VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) — On-Premises

VDI allows you to run hypervisors (like vSphere or Hyper-V) and manage your data center infrastructure. Pros include fine-grained control and predictable long-term costs. However, it comes with high upfront capital expenditure (CapEx) and operational complexity.

DaaS (Desktop as a Service) — Cloud-Hosted VDI

DaaS is managed VDI hosted by a cloud provider, converting CapEx into operational expenditure (OpEx) while simplifying scaling and deployment. Examples include Azure Virtual Desktop and Amazon WorkSpaces. Microsoft’s AVD documentation offers guidance on best practices.

RDS / Remote Desktop Session Host (Windows Server Sessions)

Remote Desktop Services facilitate multiple user sessions on a single Windows Server instance. Ideal for tight budgets, RDS offers efficiency but limits personalization compared to VDI.

Application Virtualization / RemoteApp

Application virtualization streams specific applications rather than full desktops, reducing resource usage and simplifying licensing, making it suitable for certain environments like legacy apps.

Container-Based Desktops (Emerging)

Containers can deliver lightweight, disposable desktops, particularly for development environments or labs, but may lack full user personalization.

How Desktop Virtualization Works — Basic Architecture

Desktop virtualization encompasses the following components:

Hypervisor or Cloud Host: Runs virtual machines, such as VMware ESXi or cloud instances.
Connection Broker/Gateway: Authenticates users and assigns sessions.
Image and Profile Management: Manages user profiles and image deployment.
Display Protocol: Transmits visuals to endpoints using PCoIP, Blast, HDX/ICA, or RDP.
Storage and Network: Hosts VM disks and user profiles.

Persistent vs Non-Persistent Desktops

Persistent: Each user receives a dedicated VM, ensuring full personalization but requiring more storage.
Non-Persistent (Pooled): Users access any VM from a pool, simplifying management.

Display Protocols and User Experience

Protocols determine bandwidth and experience; focusing on low latency and high IOPS is crucial for effective user experiences.

Vendor / Product	Deployment Models	Target	Strengths	Pros/Cons
VMware Horizon	On-prem, cloud, hybrid	Enterprises/SMB with VMware usage	Integration with vSphere; strong endpoint support	+ Enterprise features; - Higher costs for on-prem
Citrix Virtual Apps & Desktops	On-prem, cloud, hybrid	Large enterprises	High scalability and mature HDX protocol	+ Best UX; - Complex setup,
Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)	Cloud-native	Microsoft-focused SMBs/enterprises	Strong Azure AD integration	+ Quick to deploy; - Requires ongoing cost management
Amazon WorkSpaces	Managed DaaS	SMBs and enterprises	Predictable pricing	+ Simplicity; - Limited customization
Nutanix Frame / Parallels RAS	Cloud-first/hybrid	SMBs, education	Easy browser access	+ Low friction; - Lacks enterprise features

Comparison Criteria — What to Evaluate

When selecting a solution, consider these key factors:

Criteria	RDS / Session-based	VDI (On-Prem)	DaaS (Azure/AWS)
Cost Model	OpEx/Low Infra	CapEx + OpEx	OpEx (monthly)
Licensing Complexity	Moderate	High	Moderate-to-High
User Experience	Good for basic tasks	Excellent	Dependent on instance
Scalability	Moderate	Scales with Infrastructure	Very Easy to scale
Management Overhead	Lower	High	Lower
GPU Support	Limited	Strong	Available
Best Fit	Call centers/Basic Apps	Enterprise/Regulated Data	SMBs/Hybrid-first organizations

Key Factors to Dig Into:

Cost: Analyze total cost of ownership (TCO) including infrastructure, licensing, storage, and management.
User Experience: Assess multimedia, peripheral requirements, and test the solution with real devices.
Scalability & Management: Evaluate how easily you can manage images and update apps during high-demand periods.
Security & Identity: Ensure integration with identity services and support for multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Performance: Monitor IOPS and system latency using tools like Performance Monitor.
Offline Needs: Determine if your users frequently work offline, as virtual desktops may not meet those needs without proper sync solutions.

Building a small pilot project to capture performance metrics can help inform your final decision.

Typical Use Cases & Best Fit Solutions

SMBs with Limited IT Staff: Consider DaaS (like Azure or AWS) for reduced operational burden.
Large Enterprises: Choose On-Prem VDI with VMware or Citrix for control and compliance.
Remote/Hybrid Workforces: AVD and WorkSpaces offer global reach and quick onboarding.
Education & Labs: Non-persistent or container-based solutions for efficient resource allocation.
High-performance Tasks: Identify solutions with GPU support and equip them properly.
Call Centers: RDS often offers the most cost-effective shared-session option.

Deployment Checklist & Getting Started

A practical checklist to launch a pilot (30–90 days):

Define Objectives: Establish metrics like average login times and acceptable latency.
App and User Profile Assessment: Identify requirements for users needing persistent desktops.
Choose Persistence Model: Decide between persistent and non-persistent setups, utilizing FSLogix for Windows.
Network and Storage Planning: Assess bandwidth needs and size storage correctly.
Set Up Identity and Security: Integrate with your existing identity management solutions.
Automate Image Creation: Use PowerShell for efficient image management.

Example PowerShell snippet (to export a VM snapshot):

# Example: Exporting a VM as a golden image in Hyper-V
$vmName = "Win10-Golden"
$exportPath = "\\fileserver\images\golden"
Export-VM -Name $vmName -Path $exportPath
Write-Host "Exported $vmName to $exportPath"

Run the Pilot: Gather data on performance metrics like login and app behavior.
User Training: Ensure users and staff understand the system and iterate based on feedback.

Common Challenges & Mitigation Strategies

Poor UX from Latency: Test under real-world conditions and optimize storage and network configurations.
Complex Licensing Costs: Prioritize TCO modeling and monitor cloud spending proactively.
Peripheral Compatibility: Verify printer and device compatibility before rollout.
Profile Persistence Issues: Use FSLogix or other profile management solutions to address user data challenges.

FAQs / Glossary

Q: What’s the difference between VDI and DaaS? A: VDI is self-managed in your data center, while DaaS provides a managed, cloud-hosted solution, trading off control for lower operational overhead.

Q: When should I use RDS instead of VDI? A: RDS is best for environments with multiple users needing access to common applications at a lower cost.

Q: What is FSLogix? A: FSLogix creates profile containers that help pooled desktops function like persistent ones for better profile management.

Q: Do I need GPUs for virtual desktops? A: GPUs are only necessary for graphics-intensive workloads; for these scenarios, opt for solutions utilizing vGPU or cloud GPU instances.

Glossary:

VDI: Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
DaaS: Desktop as a Service
RDS: Remote Desktop Services (Windows Server sessions)
FSLogix: Profile container technology for virtual environments
IOPS: Input/Output Operations Per Second

Conclusion & Recommended Next Steps

In summary, choose DaaS for rapid deployment and lower operational overhead. Opt for on-prem VDI when advanced control and compliance are paramount, and consider RDS for cost-effective, shared-situation environments. Next, inventory your applications and users, and run pilots to evaluate both DaaS and on-prem solutions. For imaging and automation, refer to relevant guides, and leverage vendor trial pages for practical testing.