Understanding App Virtualization in the Financial Sector

App virtualization is the process of running applications in a virtualized environment, detached from the physical hardware and operating system. In the context of financial services, this means delivering applications securely to users—no matter where they are located. For organizations managing vast amounts of sensitive data, the ability to isolate applications in this way limits potential vulnerabilities, ensuring robust protection for the entire institution.

By adopting app virtualization, banks and financial organizations can maintain strict security measures while equipping employees with the tools they need to perform their roles effectively. This approach enhances data protection and simplifies software management. With centralized applications, IT teams can quickly deploy updates without needing to manage every individual device, streamlining operations across the board.

Boosting Security with App Virtualization

In the high-stakes world of finance, security is paramount. Data breaches in this sector can have disastrous consequences. App virtualization plays a key role in enhancing security by isolating applications and enforcing tight access controls. Financial institutions can ensure that only authorized personnel interact with sensitive information, reducing the risks associated with internal and external threats.

Moreover, app virtualization solutions often include advanced security features such as multi-factor authentication and encryption. These measures provide additional layers of protection, ensuring that even if an application is compromised, in a properly sandboxed user environment, the risk to the organization remains contained. The isolation of apps also prevents malware from spreading across the network, further strengthening overall security.

Meeting Regulatory Requirements with App Virtualization

The financial industry operates within a complex web of regulations, such as GDPR and PCI DSS, which mandate strict compliance to protect sensitive data. App virtualization assists in meeting these standards by offering detailed audit trails and access logs, allowing organizations to track and demonstrate compliance during audits. These logs also ensure that all access to sensitive data is transparent and properly monitored.

By centralizing applications within a virtual environment, financial institutions can enforce consistent security policies, reducing the chances of human error and ensuring uniform compliance across all departments. The ability to quickly adapt settings in response to regulatory changes ensures that the organization stays in line with evolving standards.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency through Virtualization

Beyond security and compliance, app virtualization significantly improves operational efficiency—an essential factor in the financial sector. By centralizing app management, IT teams can troubleshoot issues, deploy new applications, and manage user access from a single interface. This centralized control reduces the burden on support teams and allows for faster, more responsive operations.

For end-users, app virtualization offers flexibility. Employees can access the necessary applications from any device—whether in the office or remotely—allowing for a seamless work experience. This adaptability is crucial in today’s fast-paced financial landscape, where timely decision-making is critical.

The Future of App Virtualization in Financial Services

As financial services continue to evolve, securing sensitive data and staying compliant with regulations will remain top priorities. App virtualization is positioned to play an increasingly vital role in this transformation. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and regulatory pressure growing, financial institutions must adopt secure methods for delivering applications to employees and customers.

Investing in app virtualization is not just a technology upgrade—it’s a strategic move to protect sensitive information and ensure regulatory compliance. Moving forward, the integration of app virtualization is likely to become standard practice, shaping the future of secure and compliant financial services.

At Inuvika OVD Enterprise, we understand the unique challenges financial institutions face and are committed to providing solutions that enhance security and compliance through effective app virtualization. We also realize that financial institutions all have legacy custom apps that don’t easily work with some virtualization software.  We will do the custom work to ensure that even the legacy apps can be delivered in the same secure way that newer apps are.  Our mission is to empower organizations to thrive in a secure, compliant environment, meeting the demands of an ever-changing financial landscape.

FAQs

1. Does application virtualization improve security?

Absolutely! App virtualization bolsters security by creating isolated environments for applications, effectively minimizing potential attack surfaces and allowing for robust access controls.

2. What is the security benefit of using app virtualization?

The security advantages of virtualization are significant. It curtails the spread of malware, facilitates effective disaster recovery strategies, and enhances data protection through centralized management, making it easier to monitor and respond to threats.

3. What does application aap virtualization do?

Application virtualization operates by running software in distinct, isolated environments. This not only prevents application conflicts, but also heightens security by limiting direct access to the underlying system.

4. Does app virtualization increase the cybersecurity posture of the organization?

Indeed, it does! Virtualization fortifies an organization’s cybersecurity stance by enabling network segmentation, sandboxing users, minimizing hardware vulnerabilities, and supporting secure, encrypted remote access for users

5. What are the main security concerns with virtualized systems?

While virtualization offers many benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Key concerns include the risk of hypervisor attacks, potential misconfigurations, data leakage, and performance bottlenecks that can undermine security controls.

6. Which two security recommendations are specific to virtualization?

To enhance security in virtual environments, it’s crucial to implement stringent hypervisor security controls and enforce network segmentation. These measures significantly limit exposure to potential attacks.

The post App Virtualization for Financial Services: Elevating Security and Compliance appeared first on Inuvika.

The Case for Traditional Desktops

Traditional desktops have been the workhorse of business computing for decades. They provide a straightforward, no-frills setup—applications run locally, and data is stored on physical hard drives. Employees familiar with this model often appreciate the tactile, dependable nature of having their own machine.  Close to 80% of desktops worldwide have not been virtualized.

But while traditional desktops do their job well, they come with some baggage:

• Maintenance headaches: Regular updates, hardware failures, and on-site repairs take up valuable IT resources. Upgrading to new operating systems will sometimes require new devices.
• Scalability struggles: Adding new employees means buying and setting up new machines, which can be time-consuming and costly.
• Limited flexibility: Remote work? Not so easy when everything’s tied to a single device in a fixed location.
• Security Risk:  Data is floating on insecure devices.

If your business is office-based with minimal IT complexities, traditional desktops might still be the right fit. But if you’re looking for more flexibility and efficiency, it’s worth considering a virtual desktop environment.

Why Virtual Desktop Environments (VDE) Are Growing at over 20% per year

A virtual desktop environment takes the desktop experience and moves it to the cloud. Instead of relying on individual devices, users access their desktops from anywhere with an internet connection. The result? A more agile, scalable, and cost-effective computing experience.

Here’s why businesses are making the switch:

• Work from anywhere: Employees aren’t tethered to a single device. Whether at home, in the office, or traveling, their desktop is always accessible.
• Simplified IT management: Updates, patches, and security measures are rolled out centrally—no more running around fixing individual machines.
• Enhanced security: Data lives in secure, professionally managed data centers, not on individual devices, reducing the risks of data loss from theft or hardware failure.
• Cost control: Instead of buying high-powered machines for every employee, thin clients can be used.  Resources are shared efficiently in the cloud, lowering hardware costs.

Of course, virtual desktop environment aren’t perfect—they depend on a strong, stable internet connection. If your organization operates in areas with unreliable connectivity, this could be a challenge.

Performance: Speed, Power and Reliability

Traditional desktops generally offer consistent, high-performance computing, especially for resource-heavy applications like video editing or 3D rendering. However, that performance depends on hardware specifications—a dated machine can slow down productivity.

Virtual desktop environments, on the other hand, provide dynamic resource allocation—if demand spikes, additional computing power can be provisioned instantly. However, performance is only as strong as the network connection. A slow or unstable internet connection can lead to frustrating lag.

Cost: One-Time Investment vs. Ongoing Savings

Cost is a major factor in choosing between a traditional desktop setup and a virtual desktop.

• Traditional desktops require upfront hardware investments and ongoing maintenance costs (repairs, upgrades, software licenses). Scaling up means more machines, more IT support, and higher power consumption.
• Virtual desktops typically use a subscription model, making costs predictable and scalable. While there are initial setup expenses, the long-term savings on hardware, IT labor, and energy consumption can outweigh the initial investment.

If your organization values predictability and long-term efficiency, VDEs offer a compelling financial advantage.

Making the Right Choice

So, which option is best for your business? Here’s a quick guide:

• Choose Traditional Desktops if you need high-performance computing, operate from a fixed location, and want to avoid reliance on internet connectivity.
• Choose a Virtual Desktop Environment if you need remote access, easier IT management, stronger security, and scalable infrastructure.

If you’re considering making the move to a virtual desktop environment, Inuvika OVD Enterprise can help you streamline the transition while maximizing security, efficiency, and cost savings. Inuvika can install on premises or on any private or public cloud.  Let’s talk about how we can modernize your IT infrastructure today.

FAQs

1. What are the disadvantages of using a virtual desktop?
Virtual desktops may require high initial costs, stable internet connectivity, and sufficient server resources to ensure smooth performance.

2. What are the benefits of using a virtual desktop?
Virtual desktops improve security, enable remote access, reduce hardware costs, and simplify IT management with centralized control.

3. What are the benefits of a virtual computer?
Virtual computers provide flexibility, cost savings, easier maintenance, and the ability to run multiple operating systems on one machine.

4. Is virtual desktop safe?
Yes, virtual desktops enhance security by keeping data centralized, reducing endpoint risks, and offering strong access controls and encryption.

The post Virtual Desktop Environment vs. Traditional Desktops: Which is Right for You? appeared first on Inuvika.

Inuvika Announces the Release of OVD Enterprise 3.4.1  with a wide range of improvements and bug fixes

Toronto, Canada – Inuvika released OVD Enterprise version 3.4.1 today, with a host of new features that make our software more scalable and easier to deploy and manage. 

Provisioning Improvements 

We have made substantial improvements to the provisioning functionality added in 3.4.0. Numerous enhancements have been made to the provisioning feature, resulting in improved performance and increased stability. 

You can now have provisioned VMs that get deleted after logoff. In addition, you can now put VMs to sleep outside of working hours (dependent on platform used) instead of destroying them. There is other new functionality to perform tasks like aborting failed provisioning tasks without having to do this via the terminal. 

There is also a wide range of new help functionality to assist you with configuring provisioning in your environment.  This will assist you in making sure that fields are filled in appropriately in order for it to work as intended. 

Server Scripts 

A new feature has been added that lets you perform scripts at power on or power off. This included the templated scripts to perform actions like SYSPREP at first boot for provisioned virtual machines. 

OVD Version in the Admin Console 

From the administration console, you can now see, at a glance, the version code of OVD components installed on each server that makes up your environment. 

Multi-monitor selection via the EDC

We have added a new feature into the Magic Toolbar in the Enterprise Desktop Client that allows you to choose the number of screens that will be used in Fullscreen Mode. This can be very useful where a user wishes to retain, for example, a third screen for local apps whilst using screens one and two for OVD.

E-mail as Username 

We have added the ability for users to login to OVD using their registered email address, either defined by the administrator or pulled from your directory service. This is especially useful for MSPs who let users log in to the platform via email for consistency with other services such as Microsoft 365. 

Authentication Throttling Improvements 

This feature is now enabled by default, providing immediate protection against brute force login attacks on your OVD environment. 

AD Integration Improvements 

 We have enhanced the Active Directory integration testing process to better handle empty fields and provide more meaningful feedback during configuration. 

 Graphics Improvements 

 This release includes fixes for graphics-related issues, particularly addressing glitches in application mode that could occur when maximizing windows that were not in the foreground. 

Licensing Improvements 

Licensing is moving to our online platform, which will allow you to automatically license your OVD installation via an online licensing portal, removing the need for physical licensing files. This will also make SPLA reporting for our MSP partners much simpler with automatic submission of end-of-month concurrent user counts. Air-gapped environments are also supported through a manual metadata file exchange process. 

TOTP Authenticators 

The default value for Inuvika Authenticator Only has changed. Previously, it defaulted to restricting MFA to the ‘Inuvika Authenticator Only’. The new default allows all standard TOTP authenticators. 

OVD Enterprise Secure Gateway 

A new tool is available at https://pemtool.inuvika.com/ to help convert TLS certificates into the required format for use with the OVD Enterprise Secure Gateway. 

 A simpler way to update 

We have added a new update functionality to the OVD One Touch Installer. You can access this via the ‘Utilities’ menu. This removes the need to run manual steps to upgrade your OVD servers. Please note, however, that you must run the update utility per server – it does not support the ability to update multiple servers from a single instance of the tool at this moment in time. 

For a complete summary of features and updates, read the OVD 3.4.1 Release Notes summary. 

OVD Enterprise 3.4.1 Availability 

OVD 3.4.1 is available now as either a free upgrade for existing OVD subscribers or for purchase as a subscription through Inuvika’s network of authorized resellers and hosting partners worldwide. 

Visit https://www.inuvika.com/where-to-buy/ to find an authorized reseller partner near you. 

Learn more about OVD Enterprise 3.4.1 by visiting https://www.inuvika.com/ovd/whats-new-in-ovd-3-4  

Read the OVD Enterprise 3.4.1 Release Notes Summary to get started: https://www.inuvika.com/support/ovd-release-notes-3_4_1/ 

See how we stack up as a VMware/Omnissa Horizon alternative: https://www.inuvika.com/vmware-alternative/ 

Learn More 

About Inuvika

Inuvika is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Our solution, OVD Enterprise, enables organizations to efficiently deliver Linux and Windows virtual desktops and applications to any device, without the cost and complexity of other virtual desktop solutions. 

OVD delivers apps and desktops through private or public clouds, is easy to deploy and manage, and provides an exceptional user experience. Users can access apps on Windows, Linux, or macOS desktops; iOS and Android mobile devices; Chromebook; Raspberry Pi, 10ZiG and other thin clients; or any HTML5 browser. 

 Inuvika is available in over 60 countries. 

The post Inuvika Issues OVD Enterprise 3.4.1 Maintenance Release appeared first on Inuvika.

Understanding Cloud Virtual Desktops

The core idea behind cloud virtual desktops is simple: giving employees a full desktop experience hosted in the cloud. This means your team can securely access their desktop, applications, and files from any device, including inexpensive thin clients, with an internet connection—no matter where they are or which of their devices they are using. It also means that no data remains behind on their devices to create potential security issues if the device is stolen.  Whether working from home, a coffee shop, or on the road, work remains uninterrupted.

One of the most significant advantages of this model is the freedom it offers. Employees no longer need to be anchored to a specific workstation, fostering a more agile and flexible work style. But it’s not just about convenience—cloud virtual desktops also drive substantial cost savings. Traditional desktop management, hardware upkeep, and software licenses all come with hefty price tags. By moving to the cloud, businesses can centralize administration, redirecting resources that were wasted on running around to individual devices.  Since many cloud providers offer concurrent user pricing, businesses may be able to purchase fewer software subscriptions than they would have had to for individual users.  This is particularly the case where the organization has multiple work shifts, high numbers of part time employees or seasonal work fluctuation.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

As your business grows, securing sensitive data becomes paramount. Cloud virtual desktops step in to safeguard your information with robust security measures. Storing data in a centralized cloud environment, rather than on individual devices, drastically reduces the risk of data loss from theft or hardware failure. And with cloud providers implementing cutting-edge encryption and multi-factor authentication, your data stays protected against emerging threats.

Data sovereignty and compliance are also critical factors for businesses, especially in regulated industries. Whether it’s GDPR, HIPAA, or other standards, staying compliant can be a daunting task. With cloud virtual desktops, companies can leverage the expertise of their cloud service providers to ensure they meet regulatory requirements and ensure that data remains in the country where it is legally required to reside. Cloud providers invest heavily in compliance protocols, allowing businesses to stay focused on their core operations while having peace of mind that they are meeting necessary legal standards.

Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness

What truly sets cloud virtual desktops apart is their scalability. As your business grows, so do your IT needs—and virtual desktops can grow with you. When demand increases, adding users is a breeze, ensuring that your business can adapt without significant hardware investments.

Take a company facing rapid expansion, for instance. By provisioning cloud virtual desktops, businesses can onboard new employees quickly, without the delays typically associated with setting up traditional desktop systems. And the best part? The cloud offers a flexible, pay-as-you-go model, which means you only pay for what you use, helping you maintain more predictable budgeting and eliminate hefty upfront costs.  The endless cycle of device replacement can also be stretched by converting existing desktops to thin clients, extending their lives by years and then replacing them with inexpensive thin clients when the time comes.

Where usage is seasonal, as it often is in education, a flexible cloud environment will allow colleges and universities to scale down when there is lower usage and reduce IT budgets for those months.

In conclusion, cloud virtual desktops provide businesses with unparalleled flexibility, security, and cost efficiency. Whether it’s enabling remote work, ensuring data protection, or scaling seamlessly, cloud virtual desktops are an essential tool for businesses looking to stay competitive in today’s fast-evolving landscape.

Choosing the Right Cloud Virtual Desktop Solution

When making the move to cloud virtual desktops, selecting the right solution is crucial. It’s not just about picking the most popular option; you need one that fits your business needs. Factors like customer support, system integration, custom integration and pricing should all be taken into account. To make an informed decision, it’s smart to engage with providers who offer free trials. This way, you can see firsthand how their features align with your company’s goals.

Take Inuvika, for example. We provide customized cloud virtual desktop solutions or Desktop as a Service designed to meet the unique needs of your business. Inuvika partners in more than 60 countries offer desktop as a service. By understanding the specific challenges your organization faces, we ensure our solutions are tailored to help you succeed. With our expertise, and that of our partners, businesses can transition seamlessly to a cloud virtual desktop environment, laying the foundation for long-term growth.

Adopting innovative solutions like cloud virtual desktops can give your organization a significant edge. These solutions provide the flexibility, security, and scalability your business needs to thrive. At Inuvika, we’re dedicated to helping our clients unlock the full potential of cloud technology, driving success and empowering growth along the way.

FAQs

1. How do you use a virtual desktop efficiently?

Optimize resource allocation, close unused apps, ensure a strong network connection, and use cloud storage for better performance.

2. What are the benefits of using a virtual desktop environment in the cloud?

It enhances security, reduces IT costs, enables remote work, and provides seamless access to applications from any device.

3. Why are virtual desktops useful?

They offer centralized management, improved security, and flexibility, allowing users to work from anywhere with consistent performance.

4. Why is VDI a good idea?

VDI enhances security, simplifies IT management, reduces hardware costs, and provides a seamless remote work experience.

5. What are the benefits of a virtual computer?

Virtual computers improve security, reduce hardware dependency, enable remote access, and streamline IT management.

The post Scaling Your Business? Cloud Virtual Desktops Provide the Flexibility You Need appeared first on Inuvika.

Here are five compelling reasons why switching from Citrix Cloud could be a smart move.

1. Cost Efficiency

Following the recent sale of Citrix to a private company, Citrix has made it a stated goal to concentrate on its top 1000 customers.  That means that anyone who doesn’t have tens of thousands of licenses is no longer a priority.  Cloud services should empower your business without draining your budget. Citrix Cloud’s pricing structure wasn’t always the most cost-effective, and is less so now—especially for small to mid-sized companies.

Many of its competitors, like Inuvika, offer more flexible pricing models through MSP and CSP partners worldwide that allow you to scale efficiently. Inuvika offers subscriptions on a concurrent user basis, meaning you only pay for the maximum number of employees accessing the platform at any one time.  So, if you run an organization with multiple shifts, you will need far fewer licenses than under a named user model that Citrix Cloud uses. By choosing a more budget-friendly option, you free up resources for other priorities—whether that’s hiring, innovation, or customer experience.

2. Customization Options

Your business isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your cloud solution shouldn’t be either. Citrix Cloud may not provide the level of customization your organization requires.

Some alternatives, like Inuvika, let you tailor your cloud environment to your specific operational needs. Many large enterprises have legacy apps that need some customization to work well in the cloud.  Inuvika will customize your app so that you can have all of your apps in a single environment.  A cloud solution should work around your workflow, not the other way around.

3. User Experience Focus

A cloud platform should make work easier, not harder. Yet, Citrix Cloud has been known for its user interface challenges, which can frustrate teams and slow down productivity.

Many competitors focus on delivering an intuitive, user-friendly experience. Platforms like Inuvika prioritize a streamlined interface, ensuring employees can access their applications and desktops without unnecessary roadblocks. A smoother user experience translates to fewer IT headaches, happier employees, and ultimately, a more efficient operation.

4. Quality of Support

When things go wrong, you need fast, reliable support. Citrix Cloud offers customer service, but many users report long wait times, especially since they reduced their staffing.  E-mail replies that seem to be buying time and not fixing the issue as well as unhelpful responses are leaving customers unhappy.

Some competitors, however, take customer support seriously. Inuvika, for example, prioritizes strong customer engagement, providing faster assistance as recognized by G2 and other review sites.  With the right provider, you won’t be left waiting for help when you need it most.

5. Integration Capabilities

Your cloud solution should integrate seamlessly with the applications you already rely on.

Many alternatives prioritize compatibility, making it easier to connect with your existing tech stack. Inuvika, for instance, is designed for smooth integration, so you can keep using your preferred tools without disruption. The right cloud platform should enhance your workflow, not complicate it.

Inuvika can also work on any hypervisor. So lower cost hypervisors like VeregIO, Virtuozzo and ProxmoxVE will work, as well as all of the others like vSphere, KVM and Nutanix AHV.

FAQs

What are the benefits of Citrix Cloud?
Citrix Cloud offers centralized management, secure remote access, scalability, and reduced IT overhead for seamless workforce productivity.

What is the best alternative to Citrix?
Alternatives like Inuvika and VMware/Omnissa Horizon provide similar virtualization and remote access solutions with varying features and pricing.

What are the advantages of Citrix over Remote Desktop?
Citrix provides better performance, scalability, security, and optimized user experience compared to standard Remote Desktop solutions.  Remote desktop is also limited to Windows apps so is not useful if you have a mix of Linux and Windows apps.

What is replacing Citrix?
Inuvika, Microsoft AVD, VMware Horizon, and cloud-native solutions are emerging as popular replacements for Citrix in remote desktop and virtualization.

Why choose Citrix?
Citrix offers secure, high-performance remote access, centralized management, and enhanced collaboration for businesses of all sizes.

The post 5 Reasons to Choose Citrix Cloud Alternatives for Your Business appeared first on Inuvika.

Avoid “The Big Dig”—Build the VDI Chunnel Instead

For organizations moving away from VMware Horizon (now Omnissa) or Citrix, changing virtual desktop platforms often stems from increasing licensing costs, shrinking support options, or uncertain long-term roadmaps. But switching VDI platforms isn’t just a licensing conversation—it’s an inflection point—one that opens the door to rethinking how your entire virtualization stack is built.

And that’s a good thing.

Virtual desktop environments are only as good as the infrastructure that supports them. Performance, cost, reliability, and manageability depend on the choices made at the hypervisor, storage, and network layers. If you replace the VDI broker but leave everything unchanged, you risk carrying legacy inefficiencies into your future environment.

But evaluating your entire stack can feel like initiating “The Big Dig”—expensive, disruptive, and never-ending. The smarter approach is what we’ll call “The Chunnel”—a strategic, engineered tunnel that connects your current platform to a better future with minimal surface disruption.

Rethinking the VDI Hypervisor

Traditional hypervisors were not designed with VDI in mind. They treat desktops like just another VM and rely on add-on products for storage and networking. These platforms also use licensing models that penalize growth—charging per core, socket, or feature tier.

In contrast, modern infrastructure platforms are built for density and efficiency. Integrating the hypervisor directly with storage and networking in a lightweight software layer reduces resource overhead, simplifies management, and eliminates unnecessary licensing complexity. These platforms run on your existing hardware, so you’re not starting from scratch.

Rethinking Storage

Storage is one of the most significant pain points in VDI. Boot storms, deduplication bottlenecks, and RAID rebuild delays are not technical nuisances—they’re user experience killers. To fix this, organizations must over-engineer their environments with expensive all-flash arrays or high-end SANs.

But what if your storage layer was built into the virtualization platform itself? Efficient alternatives eliminate the need for external storage appliances by directly integrating distributed, high-performance storage into the hypervisor layer, solving VDI boot storms. This improves I/O performance and resilience and enables VDI environments to run on internal drives with bare-metal responsiveness, reducing cost per desktop by as much as 10X.

Rethinking the Network

Traditional SDN platforms require separate appliances and dedicated controller VMs, imposing per-port or per-core licensing. At the edge, where VDI expands into branch offices or remote learning environments, this overhead becomes unsustainable.

By embedding SDN directly into the infrastructure software, modern platforms eliminate the need for separate routers, firewalls, or overlay controllers. Policies can be applied per VM, per site, or user without deploying more hardware. Security improves, complexity drops, and expansion becomes a configuration, not a procurement cycle.

Seamless Migration is Key

None of this matters if migration is painful. Legacy platforms require you to “rip and replace” infrastructure components and duplicate hardware to test new platforms.

An efficient modern alternative should support non-disruptive, in-place migration. Administrators can replicate workloads from existing platforms into the new environment with continuous synchronization. Testing can occur parallel with production, allowing thorough validation before a rapid cutover. This approach reduces downtime, simplifies planning, and accelerates time to value.

And Of Course, Rethink Your VDI Delivery Software

Your virtual desktop software delivery platform is the user’s front door to everything—efficiency and flexibility matter. Legacy platforms like Horizon and Citrix rely on complex infrastructures, named-user licensing, and Windows-only backends that drive up costs and restrict how desktops and apps are delivered.

A modern alternative should support Windows and Linux applications, offer persistent and non-persistent desktops, and simplify administration with a single console. Licensing should scale with usage (e.g., concurrent users), not penalize for growth. It should eliminate the need for third-party gateway services, databases, or complex policy engines.  Inuvika OVD Enterprise does all of this and more.  Subscriptions are all on a concurrent user basis. Built on Linux, it delivers Windows and Linux apps and desktops at a TCO that is less than 50% of other virtual desktop solutions.

Rethinking your VDI software means choosing a solution that aligns with today’s dynamic IT environments—not one built for decades-old data centers.

Don’t Just Replace VDI —Reimagine it

When switching VDI platforms, don’t settle for the same architecture in new packaging. Use this opportunity to build a better foundation for your users and IT team.

Verge.io and Inuvika provide a jointly validated solution that integrates infrastructure and virtual desktop delivery into a modern, efficient platform. VergeOS replaces legacy hypervisors, vSAN, and third-party networking tools with a unified, lightweight platform that runs on your existing hardware. Inuvika OVD provides a high-performance, Linux-based desktop, and application delivery environment that eliminates the need for most Microsoft infrastructure components or additional licensing.

Together, these solutions give you the performance, cost savings, and flexibility legacy vendors promised—but never delivered.

Watch Our On-Demand Webinar

Learn more about Verge.io and Inuvika’s innovative solution for simplifying your VDI stack and reducing costs.

The post Why It’s Time to Rethink Your VDI Stack appeared first on Inuvika.

Organizations can reduce IT costs by integrating VergeOS’s ultra-efficient, software-defined data center platform with Inuvika OVD Enterprise’s high-performance application and desktop virtualization while improving user experience and operational simplicity. The combined solution offers enterprises, educational institutions, and service providers an affordable and efficient way to deploy and manage virtual desktops and applications without the licensing constraints of traditional VDI platforms.

“With VMware and Citrix raising prices and complicating their offerings, organizations need a more efficient and cost-effective approach to VDI,”said Yan Ness, CEO of VergeIO. “Our partnership with Inuvika enables organizations to eliminate unnecessary software licensing fees while improving the performance and manageability of their virtual desktop environments.”

Kevin Gallagher, CEO of Inuvika, added, “Partnering with VergeIO allows us to provide organizations with a modern, scalable VDI solution that can replace both VMware Broadcom and Omnissa Horizon for a complete solution for end customers and MSP/CSP partners. Inuvika OVD’s Linux-based architecture, combined with VergeOS’ highly integrated infrastructure, delivers a faster, more secure, and cost-effective alternative to legacy desktop virtualization solutions.”

A Smarter, More Efficient Approach to Virtual Desktops

Unlike traditional VDI solutions that require expensive third-party hypervisors and complex storage architectures, the VergeIO and Inuvika solution leverages VergeOS’ integrated storage and virtualization capabilities to reduce hardware requirements and simplify IT management. Inuvika OVD complements this by efficiently delivering Windows and Linux applications and desktops and reducing the Microsoft server licensing costs, enabling organizations to deploy VDI at a fraction of the cost of VMware/Omnissa Horizon or Citrix.

Key benefits of the joint solution include:

• Lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Say goodbye to costly hypervisor and VDI licensing fees with a more streamlined pricing model.
• High-Performance VDI: Eliminate boot storms and slow logins with VergeFS’s integrated storage and Inuvika’s optimized application delivery.
• Simplified Management: Reduce administrative complexity with a single, intuitive management interface for infrastructure and virtual desktops.
• Flexible Deployment: Support for persistent and non-persistent desktops and Linux and Windows applications ensures organizations can tailor VDI to their unique needs.

Organizations currently using VMware Horizon or Citrix and seeking a cost-effective alternative are encouraged to explore the combined VergeIO and Inuvika solution.

Join Us for a Live Webinar

To learn more about how VergeIO and Inuvika are delivering a cost-effective, high-performance VDI alternative, join our upcoming webinar on March 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT. This session will feature live demonstrations of the solution and a detailed framework for evaluating VDI alternatives. Register now: ~https://www.verge.io/webinar-vdi-alternatives-vio/

About VergeIO

VergeIO is the leading alternative to VMware. It provides a highly efficient, software-defined data center solution that integrates virtualization, storage, and networking into a single, easy-to-manage platform. With its innovative approach, VergeIO helps organizations reduce IT complexity, lower costs, and improve infrastructure performance. Learn more at www.verge.io.

About Inuvika

Inuvika is a leading provider of virtual application and desktop delivery solutions and a leading alternative to VMware/Omnissa Horizon and Citrix. Its OVD Enterprise platform enables organizations to deliver Windows and Linux applications securely  on-premises or on any private or public cloud. Inuvika helps organizations reduce VDI costs while enhancing performance and security. Learn more at www.inuvika.com.

The post VergeIO and Inuvika Partner to Deliver a Cost-Effective, High-Performance Alternative to VMware Horizon and Citrix appeared first on Inuvika.

CMMC ensures that sensitive data, such as that classified as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), is safeguarded against cyber threats that pose a danger to accessing and working with sensitive data. One of the most effective tools for adhering to CMMC compliance is the use of virtual workspaces, such as virtual desktop solutions (also known as VDI). These solutions create secure virtual workspace environments that address critical aspects of the CMMC framework, including access control, data protection, remote access, and business continuity.

Why Does CMMC Compliance Matter?

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) introduced the CMMC framework to standardize cybersecurity practices across the defense industrial base.  It includes five levels of certification, with each level building on the previous one to ensure increasingly stronger security measures. At the center of this framework is the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI),  sensitive data that, while not classified, still requires enhanced measures to protect it from loss, theft, or unauthorized access.

For defense contractors, failure to comply with CMMC requirements can result in the loss of contracts or disqualification from bidding on future opportunities.

Source: Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Overview

Key Challenges for Achieving CMMC Compliance

Addressing CMMC compliance involves a range of considerations, both technical and operational.  A few common examples include:

Physical and Digital Protection of CUI data

Contractors working with CUI must ensure it is accessed, processed, and stored securely in controlled facilities like data centers. Unauthorized access or data breaches can result in non-compliance.  Other considerations like encryption, authentication, and backup protection also play critical roles in the safeguarding of data.

Remote Access

Safe and reliable access to CUI data for distributed teams is a major challenge. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the need to support remote work has increased. However, opening up access to the outside world introduces new potential vulnerabilities, regardless of how many measures organizations take to secure access to sensitive information and resources.

Business Continuity

Contractors face pressures to maintain operations even during major disasters or disruptions, requiring resilient and secure IT solutions and practices.  If you lose access to business data, you’re losing access to perhaps your most valuable asset and potentially forcing all work to a halt.  The results could be catastrophic for any business that isn’t prepared beforehand.

Cost and Complexity of Compliance

Implementing CMMC-compliant systems can be resource-intensive, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). But it’s a catch-22 scenario that also prevents smaller organizations from growing to the point where they can support compliance.  Traditional VDI solutions have proven to be expensive to purchase, implement, and manage.  Annual support contracts have been known to explode in terms of cost increases, leaving some businesses, especially smaller ones, struggling to keep up.  There are, however, modern solutions like Inuvika OVD Enterprise that offer compelling alternatives while dramatically lowering the cost of ownership.

CMMC Compliance Auditing

Even if your organization has the systems in place to address CMMC, standard business practices must complement the technology. One example is the ability to conduct detailed auditing, specifically monitoring and tracking user activities and their use of data. Administrators must have solutions with auditing features, including detailed user logging, session tracking, and more. When an issue arises, these same admins must also have a process in place to pull the necessary information and react accordingly.

How Virtual Workspaces Address CMMC Compliance Requirements

Virtual apps and desktop solutions offer a practical and efficient way to meet CMMC’s requirements. By centralizing applications, desktops, and data within a secure cloud data center, virtual desktops provide a controlled and auditable environment that can be isolated from the outside world yet provide safe and controlled access to sensitive information.

Here’s how virtual workspaces address CMMC compliance:

Securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

Virtual desktops keep CUI within the physical and digital confines of the data center. Unlike traditional client-server endpoint devices where data resides on user devices, virtual workspaces ensure that all data processing and storage remains within the data center. No data, other than encrypted key-clicks and screen data, is transmitted to or resides on the device itself.  This approach reduces the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access, including physical theft of the devices themselves.

For example, virtual desktop solutions like Inuvika OVD Enterprise isolate data, applications, and desktops onto servers secured behind a firewall.  It is referred to as an “air-locked” environment, and it can be locked down to absolute minimal or “least” functionality to control information access and flow.  This model aligns directly with CMMC requirements for data protection and access control.

Secure Remote Access

Remote work is now a mandatory requirement for many organizations, including defense contractors. Traditionally, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) were the go-to option for remote access.  However, this approach brings a host of challenges and risks that can add up in terms of high costs and performance impacts.  Today, virtual desktop solutions like Inuvika OVD Enterprise use a secure remote gateway for employees to access internal resources remotely. Virtual workspace environments further mitigate the risks associated with remote access by adding more security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA), user-based access controls, and modern encryption standards.

Consider an example of a typical defense industry subcontractor working on a project who logs in to their assigned virtual workspace from home.   All aspects of the project take place behind the government data center firewall. Access is strictly limited by user, role, and/or other permissions (file access, etc.)  All applications run on servers within the data center instead of the user’s laptop or desktop. There is no threat of data ever being transmitted over open networks or stored locally on the subcontractor’s device, ensuring compliance with CMMC remote access requirements.  And if necessary, the host can configure workspaces to support collaboration with other authorized users while ensuring security and confidentiality.

For a great example of a remotely-access virtual workspace and air-locking in action, read our case study on Genomics England and the 100,000 Genome project.

Supporting Business Continuity

 By their very nature, virtual desktops are inherently resilient. They allow organizations to endure or quickly recover from disruptions, whether caused by cyber attack incidents, natural disasters, or dramatic hardware failures. Centralized management also simplifies disaster recovery and ensures that operations can continue seamlessly.

For example, in the event of a ransomware attack, a contractor’s IT team can isolate affected virtual desktops and redeploy clean environments from a central location, minimizing downtime and protecting sensitive data.  Consistent data backup protection is dramatically simplified when all information remains centralized, and you don’t have to manage remotely distributed data on user devices.

Simplifying CMMC Compliance Audits

CMMC compliance requires detailed documentation and audit trails to ensure adherence. Virtual workspace solutions like OVD Enterprise include native capabilities like centralized logging and monitoring, making it easier to generate reports and demonstrate compliance.

However, the solution is designed to support more advanced auditing through APIs, integrating with third-party data management solutions such as SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) and SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) platforms, including Splunk and other tools. This enables businesses to compile and analyze data from multiple sources and conduct a more comprehensive audit and threat detection capability.

For example, OVD Enterprise administrators can use the Web-based management console to track user activity, session histories, and other events while leveraging third-party platforms to detect advanced anomalies and enhance their response strategies. This integration ensures a CMMC-compliant virtual workspace that not only meets compliance requirements but also strengthens overall security posture.

Other Benefits of Using OVD Enterprise for CMMC Compliance

Virtual apps and desktops, like those offered by Inuvika OVD Enterprise, are more than just a technology solution; they are a strategic asset for defense contractors navigating the complexities of CMMC compliance. By addressing essential areas such as CUI protection, secure remote access, and business continuity, virtual desktops provide a robust and scalable solution for organizations of all sizes.

For defense contractors aiming to achieve and maintain compliance with CMMC, OVD Enterprise stands out as a solution that not only meets these needs but exceeds them by offering unparalleled flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

OVD Enterprise excels in the following areas:

Data Isolation and Enhanced Security

OVD Enterprise isolates data, applications, and desktops within a secure data center environment. This “air-locked” design ensures that sensitive information remains confined to the data center, eliminating risks associated with local data storage.

Role-Based Access Control

The platform allows granular control over who can access specific applications and data, ensuring that only authorized personnel can interact with CUI.

Centralized Management

Administrators can manage users, policies, and resources from a single web-based management console. This centralization simplifies compliance management and reduces administrative overhead since you no longer need to dedicate staff for in-field support calls.

Secure Remote Access

With OVD Enterprise, contractors can provide employees and subcontractors with secure access to virtual desktops and applications from any device. Encrypted connections and MFA ensure that remote access is both safe and compliant.

Cost-Effective Scalability

Unlike traditional desktop solutions, OVD Enterprise is lightweight and cost-efficient, making it accessible to SMBs that need to meet CMMC compliance without overspending on expensive “bells and whistles” features that are rarely used.    OVD Enterprise typically costs about 60% or less to own over a comparable lifetime and offers a compelling alternative to legacy solution providers like Citrix and VMware Horizon (now Omnissa Horizon.)

Conclusion

CMMC compliance is critical for defense contractors dealing with today’s cybersecurity landscape. Desktop virtualization and virtual applications provide a practical and effective way to meet these requirements while enabling secure remote work and ensuring business continuity.

Inuvika OVD Enterprise is a leading solution in this space, offering data isolation, secure remote access, and centralized management to help contractors achieve compliance with confidence. By leveraging virtual desktop technology, contractors can focus on their core missions while maintaining the highest standards of cybersecurity and compliance.

If you’re a defense contractor or subcontractor looking to simplify your path to CMMC compliance, consider the benefits of deploying a virtual workspace using OVD Enterprise.  Inuvika OVD Enterprise is available in over 60 countries.

Image by Pete Linforth

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Traditional Remote Access Methods Introduce Potential Weak Points

When prompted, most people will probably consider Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as the default method for supporting remote access.  While conventional methods like VPNs offer benefits, they create new potential entry points for malicious agents and activity.

Unsecured devices create a pathway for malware and data theft.  BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) means workers use their personal devices for work purposes.  It also creates a situation where the IT department doesn’t have the same control over personal devices as they would with corporately-provisioned devices. This can result in personal devices not having, for example, the same security measures installed and active in corporately provisioned devices. This can create a security hole that hackers can exploit.  For example, malware introduced through an infected home laptop, without appropriate anti-malware installed, can easily infiltrate the corporate network through a remote VPN connection and wreak havoc with various systems.

Authentication vulnerabilities mean that we need to think beyond simple passwords. Basic password authentication can be compromised. Brute force attacks, credentials theft, and other methods demonstrate that passwords alone are no longer sufficient protection against unauthorized access.  Adding a Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) layer, for example, is a minimum addition to protect against unauthorized access by nefarious agents.

Data Leakage and Theft. Sensitive data can be inadvertently exposed during a remote access session or even by employees cutting and pasting into generative AI software where, once exposed, it becomes part of the public domain.  Employees might download files to their local machines or accidentally share them via unsecured channels. Gartner estimates that one laptop is stolen, on average, every 53 seconds.  The impact has far-ranging consequences. For example, stolen devices are the primary cause for 45% of all healthcare industry data breaches.  In such scenarios, stolen devices lacking sufficient security measures like drive encryption create an opportunity for thieves if sensitive data is stored on the device.   In addition, employees might use AI to assist in writing confidential material or even software coding.   This is a new threat that needs to be controlled.

Cyber attacks like “Man-in-the-Middle” threats enable criminals to capture data transmitted over a network connection. Cybercriminals could intercept the data stream between the remote device and the corporate network, potentially intercepting sensitive information or injecting malware that infects your company’s network.

Insider Threats. Disgruntled employees with remote access privileges also pose a threat. They can steal data, sabotage systems, or even hold the network hostage for some favorable outcome.  Even employees without malicious intentions can pose risks to security through bad habits like clicking on malicious links or not updating their devices with the latest security patches.  Osterman Research indicates that the most common entry points for ransomware, for example, involve VPNs and employee credentials phishing scams that inadvertently give cybercriminals access to systems and sensitive data that can be stolen and held for ransom.

Virtual Workspaces Offer a Compelling Option for Remote Workers

Virtual desktops (VDI) offer a solution to the security challenges of traditional remote access methods like VPNs.  Instead of giving employees access to an internal network with software running on a remote laptop or desktop, users are assigned a virtual workspace that resides within a highly secured data center.  The workspaces come fully populated with desktops, assigned applications, and controlled user permissions for such tasks as cutting and pasting, printing, and other actions that touch sensitive data.

They centralize control for better security. VDI software provides users with virtualized desktop solutions hosted on centralized servers. It eliminates the risk associated with unpatched and unsecured personal devices because they can be updated regularly from a centralized management console.  In addition, all applications can be updated and assigned similarly, providing control over which users can access applications and services without ever having to step foot in the field to deal with a physical laptop or desktop device.

They make use of advanced authentication and other security measures. Virtual workspaces can leverage strong authentication methods like multi-factor authentication and smart card readers, making it significantly harder for unauthorized users to gain access.  In addition, since they operate in a centralized server-based environment, the number of potential attack points are dramatically reduced.

Virtual workspaces isolate data to prevent leaks. When VDI sessions are entirely contained within the virtual machine, it results in a workspace environment that is isolated, or “Air locked” from the outside world or the rest of the internal network.  If properly locked down, it can (for example) prevent sensitive data from being downloaded to personal devices or accessories like thumb drives. Data processing and storage occur within the secure confines of the organization’s data center, so there is never a need to keep data stored on local devices that can be exposed to potential theft.

They restrict potential points of attack. By creating defined and controlled virtual workspaces with VDI, there’s no need to expose entire corporate networks to remote access as they would otherwise have through a VPN.  With Inuvika OVD Enterprise, each user is sandboxed, so even if there is a security issue, it cannot go beyond the single exposed user.

Administrators can monitor and manage user activities. VDI environments allow for robust user activity monitoring and session recording. They also grant granular user rights permission, so you can, for example, assign access rights and other permissions easily.  This enables organizations to detect suspicious behavior, identify potential insider threats, and limit what users may do in the environment.  Admins can also prevent users from cutting and pasting outside of the environment into generative AI to preserve proprietary information.

Other Benefits of Using Virtual Workspaces for Remote Access

Creating virtual workspaces with VDI offers other benefits beyond remote access security:

Simplified Management. VDI streamlines IT management by centralizing desktops and applications. Updates can be deployed to all users simultaneously, reducing administrative overhead and creating new IT efficiencies that can be reinvested into other projects or services.

Improved Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity. In the event of a hardware failure or natural disaster, virtual workspaces can be easily restored from backups, minimizing downtime and data loss.

Scalability. VDI environments are highly scalable. Organizations can easily add or remove virtual desktops as needed to accommodate fluctuating user demands.

Device Agnostic. VDIs allow users to connect from any device with a web browser, eliminating the need for company-issued hardware. This flexibility empowers employees to work productively from any location.

Conclusion

VPN remote access has become an indispensable tool for today’s workforce. However, it is crucial to recognize and address the inherent security risks. VDI solutions like Inuvika OVD Enterprise offer a secure and feature-rich alternative to VPNs for remote work. While VDI requires careful planning and investment, the improved security, centralized management, and scalability benefits make them a compelling solution for organizations looking to empower their remote teams without compromising their cybersecurity posture.

Photo by MART PRODUCTION

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1. Significant Cost Savings
   One of the main reasons that most people are looking for a Citrix Workspace alternative now is the potential for substantial cost savings. If you are hosting your virtualization solution on-premises, Inuvika OVD Enterprise can lower your total cost of ownership by over 60%. As mentioned below, Inuvika OVD Enterprise is built on a Linux back-end and is far more efficient than CItrix, allowing you to put twice as many users on a server.  It also eliminates the need for Microsoft SQL Server licenses and separate gateway solutions (like NetScaler), allowing your business to allocate resources more effectively. Our all-inclusive subscription model is based on concurrent users rather than named users, ensuring you pay only for what you need. And those are just a few examples of the ways our streamlined product saves you significant money compared to Citrix and other options. Alternatively, if you want a hosted DaaS solution, Inuvika partners around the world offer white-labelled versions of Inuvika OVD Enterprise where they will manage everything for you.
2. Enhanced Flexibility
   Inuvika OVD Enterprise is designed with flexibility in mind. Our platform supports any hypervisor, including vSphere, ProxmoxVE, KVM, Nutanix AHV and Hyper-V, as well as deployment on leading cloud services like AWS and Microsoft Azure. This agnostic approach means that businesses can adapt their infrastructure without being locked into a single vendor, providing a tailored solution that meets specific operational needs.
3. Streamlined User Experience
   We understand that user experience is crucial for productivity. Inuvika OVD allows access to both Windows and Linux applications across various devices, ensuring that employees can work efficiently from desktops, laptops, or mobile devices. Our solution provides quick access through a web portal or desktop client, making it easy for teams to collaborate and communicate without interruptions.
4. Simplified Management
   Managing virtual desktops can be a daunting task, but our platform simplifies this process significantly. With a single, user-friendly web console, administrators can oversee their entire OVD environment without the need for additional management clients. This ease of management not only saves time, but also reduces the learning curve—allowing administrators to become proficient in just a day.
5. Built-in Security Features
   Security is a top priority for any organization, and Inuvika OVD Enterprise is built with this in mind. Our solution is grounded in a Zero Trust principle, offering granular control over user access. Administrators can enable or disable functionality on a user or group basis, ensuring that sensitive data remains secure. As Artificial Intelligence is becoming more prevalent, having the ability to prevent cutting and pasting your sensitive materials out of OVD Enterprise and into generative AI apps can keep your materials from becoming part of the public domain. Additionally, our platform includes built-in multi-factor authentication, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.
6. Rapid Deployment
   Implementing a new virtual desktop solution should not be a prolonged process. With Inuvika OVD, installation and configuration can be completed in just a few hours, allowing your business to transition smoothly without significant disruptions. This speed of deployment means that your team can start benefiting from the new system almost immediately.
7. Optimized Resource Utilization
   Our Linux-based architecture allows businesses to maximize resource utilization. By packing more users onto application servers, Inuvika OVD Enterprise reduces the need for multiple Windows server licenses. This optimization not only lowers costs but also enhances the overall performance of your applications, leading to a more efficient work environment.
8. Compatibility with Existing Systems
   We recognize that many businesses operate with a variety of existing systems. Inuvika OVD is compatible with any Active Directory or LDAP directory service, enabling easy integration with your current infrastructure. This compatibility ensures a smoother transition to our platform and reduces the chances of disruption during the migration process.
9. Improved Collaboration Tools
   In today’s workplace, effective collaboration tools are essential. Inuvika OVD Enterprise supports applications like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, providing a robust environment for communication and collaboration among team members. Our platform also boasts unmatched USB device redirection and highly optimized video streaming, enhancing the overall experience for users.
10. Access to Support and Resources
    Finally, when considering a Citrix Workspace alternative, access to support and resources can be a game-changer. At Inuvika, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive support to our users. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate any challenges and ensuring that you get the most out of our platform. With a focus on customer satisfaction, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Exploring alternatives to Citrix Workspace can provide your business with significant advantages, from cost savings to enhanced user experiences. Inuvika OVD Enterprise offers a flexible, secure, and efficient solution that can cater to your organization’s unique needs. We invite you to discover how our platform can transform your virtual desktop environment and empower your team to work more effectively.

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Inuvika Announces the Release of OVD Enterprise 3.4 with the ability to provision VMs on any hypervisor or cloud platform

Toronto, Canada – Inuvika released OVD Enterprise 3.4 today, with a host of new features that make our software more scalable and easier to deploy and manage.

Provisioning

Inuvika has added the ability to integrate your OVD Session Manager directly with your choice of virtualization platform. This can be on-premises, cloud-based or hybrid utilizing both simple hypervisors, such as Proxmox, Nutanix AHV, VMware vSphere and Microsoft Hyper-V as well as cloud providers such as Zadara, Openstack, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and Amazon AWS.

This new functionality allows you to deploy both shared and dedicated OVD Application Server instances that run either Windows 10/11, Windows Server, or a Linux Server based operating system (Ubuntu 22.04/RHEL8) from a gold master template or multiple templates curated for different use cases. You can spin up and spin down on demand and also have the ability to set a working hours schedule where required.

Monitoring

A new monitoring feature has been added allowing you to connect the OVD Administration Console directly to a monitoring platform supporting InfluxDB, such as Grafana

Multitenant Changes

Global view has been removed in this release. It is replaced by new drop downs for multi-tenant or global administrators on various pages to allow them to filter information displayed by tenant

Other changes in this release include changes to Service Notices, Software License Enforcement and cosmetic changes to the admin console and a new security feature that provides immediate protection against brute force login attacks on your OVD environment.

For a complete summary of features and updates, read the OVD 3.4 Release Notes summary.

OVD Enterprise 3.4 Availability

OVD 3.4 is available now as either a free upgrade for existing OVD subscribers or for purchase as a subscription through Inuvika’s network of authorized resellers and hosting partners worldwide.   Visit https://www.inuvika.com/where-to-buy/ to find an authorized reseller partner near you.

Learn more about OVD Enterprise 3.4 by visiting https://www.inuvika.com/ovd/whats-new-in-ovd-3-4

Existing subscribers to OVD Enterprise can upgrade to 3.4 at no additional cost.  Read the OVD Enterprise 3.4 Release Notes Summary to get started: https://www.inuvika.com/support/ovd-release-notes-3_4/

See how we stack up as a VMware/Omnissa Horizon alternative: https://www.inuvika.com/vmware-alternative/

Learn More

About Inuvika

Inuvika is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Our solution, OVD Enterprise, enables organizations to efficiently deliver Linux and Windows virtual desktops and applications to any device, without the cost and complexity of other virtual desktop solutions.

OVD delivers apps and desktops through private or public clouds, is easy to deploy and manage, and provides an exceptional user experience. Users can access apps on Windows, Linux, or macOS desktops; iOS and Android mobile devices; Chromebook; Raspberry Pi, 10ZiG and other thin clients; or any HTML5 browser.

Inuvika is available as an on-premise solution or as-a-service in over 50 countries.

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1. Unified Access to Windows and Linux Applications

One of the standout features of Inuvika OVD Enterprise is its ability to deliver both Windows and Linux applications in a single user interface. This unified access enables users to work across different platforms without the hassle of switching environments. Whether on a desktop, laptop, or mobile device, applications are delivered quickly through a web portal or as integrated apps on the user’s local desktop. This versatility ensures that organizations can leverage their existing software investments while providing users with a cohesive experience.

2. Cost-Effective Licensing Model

Inuvika OVD Enterprise significantly reduces operational costs, boasting the potential to lower expenses by up to 60% compared to other virtualization solutions. The use of Linux-powered application virtualization means that fewer Microsoft Windows licenses are required, leading to substantial savings. Additionally, the all-inclusive subscription plan based on concurrent users, rather than named users with most of our competitors, simplifies budgeting and eliminates the need for separate gateway solutions, further driving down the total cost of ownership.

3. Enhanced User Experience

User experience is at the forefront of the Inuvika OVD design philosophy. The platform offers USB device redirection, allowing users to utilize local devices seamlessly within their virtual environment. It provides highly optimized video streaming and native support for popular applications such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom. This focus on user-centric features ensures that employees can work efficiently without friction, leading to increased productivity.

4. Zero Trust Security Model

Security is paramount in today’s digital world, and Inuvika OVD Enterprise addresses this with a reliable Zero Trust security model. Administrators have granular control over user access, with the capability to enable or disable functionality on a per-user, per-group, or global basis. The built-in multi-factor authentication (2FA) provides an added layer of security, eliminating the need for additional authentication services. All data transferred between users and their applications is encrypted using advanced technology, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.

5. Simplified Management Console

Managing a virtual desktop environment can often be complex and time-consuming. Inuvika OVD Enterprise simplifies this process with a single, easy-to-use web console. There is no need to install a management client on individual desktops, as the entire environment can be securely managed from any device. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the administrative burden, allowing IT teams to focus on more strategic initiatives.

6. Fast Deployment and Configuration

Inuvika OVD Enterprise is designed for rapid deployment and configuration. Organizations can install the solution in just a few hours, compared to the weeks often required by traditional desktop virtualization software. This swift installation process minimizes disruption to users and allows organizations to quickly adapt to changing demands. Additionally, upgrades are straightforward and can be completed in minutes, ensuring that organizations remain agile and up-to-date with the latest features.

7. Compatibility with Leading Enterprise Standards

Flexibility is a critical factor for organizations looking to implement a virtualization solution. Inuvika OVD Enterprise embraces today’s leading enterprise standards, making it compatible with any hypervisor, such as vSphere, KVM, Hyper-V, and Nutanix AHV. It also integrates with any Active Directory or LDAP directory service. OVD can also be deployed on major cloud platforms, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure, providing customers with maximum flexibility in their hosting and hardware requirements.

8. Optimized Resource Utilization

Inuvika OVD Enterprise employs a resource containerization strategy that optimizes resource utilization across application servers. This allows organizations to pack more users onto their servers, enhancing performance and reducing waste. By maximizing the efficiency of existing infrastructure, companies can achieve better performance metrics while minimizing their environmental footprint and operational costs.

9. Comprehensive Support and Resources

Inuvika is committed to providing excellent support for its users. The company offers a wealth of resources, including technical documentation, customer case studies, and a dedicated support team. This commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that organizations have the guidance they need to implement and manage their Inuvika OVD solutions effectively. Additionally, potential users can explore free trial options to experience the benefits of OVD Enterprise firsthand before making a commitment.

10. Future-Ready Technology

Lastly, Inuvika OVD Enterprise is built with future-readiness in mind. As virtualization technology continues to evolve, organizations need solutions that can adapt and grow with their needs. Inuvika’s commitment to innovation ensures that the platform will continue to develop, offering users access to the latest advancements in application delivery and virtualization technology. This forward-looking approach empowers businesses to stay competitive in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Conclusion

Inuvika OVD Enterprise is not just another virtualization solution; it is a comprehensive platform designed to simplify application delivery while enhancing user experience and significantly reducing costs. With its unique features—ranging from one click multi-tenancy, easy admin, unified access to both Windows and Linux applications and a robust Zero Trust security model—Inuvika OVD Enterprise stands out as a leading alternative to traditional offerings like Citrix XenApp, Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, Citrix DaaS  and VMware Horizon (now Omnissa). As organizations continue to navigate the challenges of digital transformation, Inuvika OVD Enterprise presents a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient virtual desktop software solution for their application delivery needs.

The future of application delivery is here, and Inuvika OVD Enterprise is leading the way. Start your journey with us today and discover the benefits of seamless application delivery that empowers your organization to thrive.

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