Citrix and VMware are familiar names to those in the VDI field. Because it has been among the pioneers of this field for a long time, if we want to check VMware vs Citrix, we will have a hard way because both names are successful in this part of the market. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) technology is not new. If we want to talk about the background of this technology, we must say that it went back many years ago. This technology has been used to virtualize the desktop for years. The way the system works is also simple. We will achieve the desired result by transferring desktop workloads from the device to centralized servers. Of course, we should not forget that such a system, like normal systems, is unsuitable for running programs and is only a means of observation and review.
Although VDI technology has been available to us for years, it has changed so much since then that it may not be comparable. The Desktop as a Service (DaaS) model has replaced the traditional use of hardware. DaaS is a virtual desktop with many applications, and by providing very practical fields for organizations, it helps their integrity and security even in shared and remote spaces. Therefore, in this article, we will review VMware vs Citrix, both of which have strong VDI and DaaS systems.
VMware vs Citrix: Main features
Citrix
Let's start with Citrix, which has a good VDI and DaaS platform. The first positive point about it is that it is cloud-based. If this is not enough for you, it is also possible to save in Windows, Linux, and web applications. Therefore, you can meet your needs anytime and with any device. In terms of security features, it must be said that Citrix is very powerful. Despite the very powerful Built-in HDX technology, it allows you to easily run graphics and multimedia programs without witnessing the usual bugs and lags in VDI. Cloud-based DaaS environments allow you to access the information you want from anywhere with a monthly subscription.
VMware
Next, we should also talk about VMware, which has VDI and DaaS features. Since DaaS has become more interesting for professionals today, VMware has decided to provide more functionality in this field. Therefore, with the VMware Horizon DaaS platform, we are on the side of this company specialising in DaaS. So you are faced with many features, such as multi-tenancy, which is a convenient tool for working from several locations. So it doesn't matter where you are; thanks to cloud flexibility, you can do your work easily. If you are interested or depending on your needs, it can work on private, public, or hybrid clouds. Another strength of VMware is the use of an advanced Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). This feature is a great option, especially for those who do graphic and design work that may make their work easier.
VMware vs Citrix initial setup
Let's start with Citrix. It is very easy for users with minimal experience to get up and run. It also allows users to have as many desktops as they need. If this feature is not enough for you, it is good to know that it also can run on-prem, in the cloud, or in a hybrid configuration. User comments also show that it is very easy for them to start working with Citrix. Also, the company's frequent updates are a huge advantage for them. So maybe it is a step ahead in comparing VMware vs Citrix.
We should not forget VMware because it is simple enough to implement VDI, and if needed, you can use cloud space or infrastructure internally to get started. If you need more features, you should know that cloud-based console and SaaS management services will satisfy you. These additional features help users to have their desired personalization easily. Horizon 7 also has another very important feature: Workspace Environment Management (WEM). This feature allows users to manage, monitor, and expedite data and guarantees the security of data and work process from any place and time.
Optimization
Citrix DaaS is best optimized and designed to integrate with Microsoft Azure. Therefore, you can safely use programs such as Skype and Microsoft Teams. You can add accessories like a webcam to the device even if you like. This company has also included optimization based on Amazon Web Services, Microsoft App-V and VMware vSphere.
On the other hand, we should also check VMware Horizon, which is active with the VMware technology ecosystem. In this integration, vSphere and vCenter are also considered. Also, it can coordinate with services like Azure if you are interested. Therefore, at this stage, it seems that VMware has more features to offer.
Security
In terms of security, Citrix DaaS provides users with many features such as multi-factor authentication, real-time monitoring, session watermarking, password management, and protection of access permissions and policies based on the location or device of employees.
On the other hand, we are facing VMware Horizon DaaS, which provides anti-virus and anti-malware protection for desktop-level OS users. This company has cooperated with the well-known security name Carbon Black to ensure the security of users. Therefore, it assures users that all processes in the system will be checked one by one. Therefore, device state, location, and user behaviour are examined to identify suspicious cases.
Price
Comparing VMware vs Citrix, it should be said that Citrix favours simplicity. Citrix Daas Standard is available to users for $10 per month. The Advanced Plus version is available for $13, and Citrix DaaS Premium provides users with additional monitoring, imaging, and security tools for $20 per month. A Premium Plus membership also gives users performance analytics and security analytics features.
On the other side is VMware, and its pricing is slightly different. For example, users will pay about $3,116 overall for the VMware Horizon version. This payment will be for one time only. With the same conditions, the enterprise-class version is $4,362 for 10 users. Because the pricing policies are a little different and confusing, you will probably need guidance to choose the right package. Although on the surface, it may seem that it will be a cheaper choice, in terms of flexibility, Citrix seems to perform better.
Last word
It isn't easy to decide between VMware and Citrix. It seems that the choice depends more on personal opinion and individual and group needs. Citrix may be a better option for novice users. So it is a good choice if you want everything to be simple and hassle-free. It is also very progressive in terms of DaaS, and from this day, it offers productivity and efficiency.
VMware's main focus, on the other hand, is on the cloud, making it a potentially better option in terms of connectivity, especially for businesses that require robust cloud infrastructure. Its security options may seem complex, but they are designed to meet the needs of professionals who demand high levels of protection and control over their data. Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is likely best suited for smaller teams or organizations with limited IT resources, while VMware's solutions can scale to meet the demands of larger communities or enterprises.
For those considering a dedicated server VMware setup, this could be an ideal choice if your organization needs a powerful, reliable environment that supports extensive virtualization capabilities. A dedicated server running VMware not only enhances performance but also offers better control over resource allocation, ensuring that your applications run smoothly.
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