If you currently use the VPN or Citrix for privileged access when off campus, you’re the key audience for this announcement.
VDI is a nice little acronym that defines the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. It’s more of an abstract concept than a product.
Over the past eight years, two virtual desktop environments have been tried: VMware View and Citrix. Both fell short of their promises. As a result, just over a year ago, we began the return to bare metal builds in academic and office spaces. Why? Because a PC on your desk works.
However, a remote desktop is still needed from time to time. So, we viewed VDI as a side dish rather than a main course. You may have a mobile device (iPad, laptop, Surface, etc.), but the privileges you need can’t be provided on that device when you’re off campus. The solution? You connect to a desktop that has those privileges. This also allows us to control the security of the desktop better.
This is not a new concept, but we researched a new product and chose one that the Hong Kong Polytechnic University uses for about 28,000 student and staff remote desktops. The best part is that 90% of our users only need a browser to gain access. There is no special software or connector to install to get immediate access, so you won’t need to make a special trip to IIT for an update.
Citrix will be no more on June 1, 2024. The licensing will expire and will not be renewed. You’ll be informed how to access the new product in roughly two weeks. A few people around campus have been chosen for a preview release.
Again, if you don’t routinely use the VPN or Citrix from off campus, this announcement likely doesn’t affect you.