Overview of Application Virtualization
Application virtualization is the most recent addition to IT virtualization. Virtualizing applications allows you to install any software application onto a server (virtual or physical) and access it from any networked computer, regardless of the computer’s operating system. Virtual applications are packaged and delivered to networked workstations in a way that keeps them separate from everything else that is running on the computer. Virtualizing programs will prevent application conflict and will decrease the workload on networked machines, which will keep down the costs of updating workstation hardware.
Advantages
There are multiple advantages to adopting application virtualization as part of your business’s comprehensive IT plan. Several of the benefits most businesses will immediately realize are as follows:
- Decreased system impact – Virtualizing applications removes the application’s files and associated data off the workstation and onto the server, reducing storage and processing power needs.
- No Conflicts- With application virtualization, a computer can run multiple versions of the same application at the same time without any problems. This allows users to access multiple versions of applications without having to switch back and forth from computer to computer. For example, perhaps your company purchased a custom application that was designed for use on the Windows XP OS, but you really want the security and features of Win7 for everyday use. Instead of setting aside a workstation with the older OS that can run the legacy program, you can virtualize the application and make it accessible from all networked computers.
- Extended application lifespan- By upgrading operating systems at the server level, you can still access customized, legacy programs that aren’t supported by newer operating systems.
- Extended hardware lifespan- By virtualizing newer applications that require more RAM, memory space, or processor power, you can extend the functional life of older desktop.
- Rapid Deployment- Making a virtualized program available to users on networked computers is as easy as putting shortcuts on the computer desktops.
- Efficient updates- When applications are virtualized, all system patches and updates are done once, on the virtualized application, at the server level. This time saving step guarantees that all computers can be quickly patched and updated.
Possible disadvantages
While application virtualization has many advantages, there are some possible disadvantages that should be considered.
- Server dependency- Application virtualization requires at least one host server; this means that you have to commit funds to purchasing virtualization software that must be installed on the server before you can virtualize any applications.
- Peripheral devices- Applications that interact with local scanners and network equipment may not function properly.
- Device Interaction- Any software that requires the use of a security key, smart card, or attached storage device cannot be virtualized because USB drives don’t work with virtualization software.
- Security software- Workstations that retain operating systems must have anti-virus programs and local firewalls installed manually.
- Multimedia- Virtual applications that require multimedia hardware won’t operate.
Learn more
To learn more about how application virtualization can fit into your existing IT plan, please contact the IT consulting and virtualization experts at All Covered at 866-446-1133.
Andreas KrebsMarketing Manager, All Covered, Inc.
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