RingCube recently announced vDesk version 2.0, an enterprise desktop virtualization solution that simplifies the creation, access and management of Windows desktops. With the release of vDesk 2.0, RingCube advances its virtualization architecture through its new Workspace Virtualization Engine (WVE) expanding the manageability, security, and supportability of its enterprise-class virtual desktop solution. With version 2.0, vDesk also extends its advantage in the areas of application support and ease of management as compared to application virtualization offerings while continuing to maintain a significant cost and performance advantage over client hypervisor-based solutions.
RingCube vDesk 2.0 delivers a Workspace Virtualization Engine (WVE) which provides a lightweight and complete virtual desktop that can join an enterprise domain, has an isolated network stack and supports applications such as endpoint security, databases, and PC management software that require drivers and security services. Below is a listing of key components of the Workspace Virtualization Engine (WVE):
- Virtual Networking, called vDeskNet, allows the virtual workspace to separate and isolate network traffic from the host PC including VPN clients running within the virtual workspace.
- Virtual User Management allows the virtual workspace to have a unique set of user accounts separate from the host PC. Also, vDesk users within the virtual workspace can add/join an Active Directory domain independent of the user authentication and authorization rights of the host PC.
- Virtual Security Store provides a separate protected storage area within the virtual workspace where items like certificates are kept isolated from the host PC.
- Virtual Windows Services allows greater process and application isolation from the host PC. Virtualized services within the virtual workspace include LSA (local security authority), Microsoft TCP/IP networking, and NTFS volumes. These virtualized services help to increase the number of kernel-mode applications that can be supported within the virtual workspace.
- Generic Driver Support provides a virtualized framework for the installation of drivers within the virtual workspace which includes a virtualized Plug-n-Play service. The generic driver framework increases application support particularly when new drivers are required.
vDesk 2.0 delivers full workspace encryption through its integration of 3rd party encryption software which protects the information stored within the virtual workspace. Also, vDeskNet provides a virtual networking stack so all network traffic within the virtual workspace can be isolated from the host, protecting confidential information from spyware on the host PC. VPN clients and end-point security software can also be installed inside the virtual workspace for additional security protection of the virtual workspace.
vDesk 2.0 improves the manageability of the virtual workspace by allowing users within the vDesk virtual workspace to add or join an Active Directory domain. Further, vDesk 2.0 has the ability to consume and apply Group Policy Objects (GPO) within the virtual workspace itself independent of the host PC. Enterprise customers can leverage existing management tools with vDesk by running them outside or inside the virtual workspace. By co-existing with traditional PC life cycle management tools and processes, vDesk provides a seamless transition path from traditional desktop management to virtual workspace management.
The vDesk 2.0 client has a more streamlined interface making it easier for vDesk users to get access to their virtual workspace with less interaction required. Also, vDesk support of Windows Vista has gone from technology preview in the previous release to general availability.
vDesk 2.0 is available immediately through RingCube. Pricing starts at $200 per user.