Virtual Desktop

Tags vdi

Overview

The Virtual Desktop service provides users and departments with secure, flexible access to a full desktop environment from nearly any device. Desktops run in OU’s private cloud and can be accessed from almost any location with an Internet connection. Standard or customized software configurations are available to meet individual and departmental needs. This service reduces hardware costs, enhances security, and increases operational flexibility.

Key Benefits

  • Remote Access: Access your desktop from any Internet‑connected device.
  • Flexible Resources: Customize CPU, memory, and storage to fit requirements.
  • Cost Efficiency: Reduce reliance on physical hardware.
  • Security & Compliance: Hosted in secure OU data centers and aligned with IT policies.

Types of Virtual Desktops

Pooled (Non‑Persistent) Desktops

  • Ideal for labs and shared environments.
  • A new desktop instance is provided at each log in.
  • Environments may retain or reset user settings and files based on configuration.
  • Important: Always save files to cloud storage when using reset‑enabled desktops.
  • Please request a consultation to have a new desktop pool created.

Persistent Desktops

  • Suitable for users requiring custom software or long term personalization.
  • Files, settings, and customizations remain intact across sessions.
  • Managed by the Endpoint Management Team, with access to Software Center for application installation.

Subscription-Based Virtual Desktop Pools

OU IT provides centrally managed, subscription-based desktop pools that users can request access to without requiring a custom deployment.

Available Subscription Pools

  • OU-VDI (Standard Desktop)

    • General-purpose virtual desktop
    • Includes standard productivity applications
    • Recommended for most users
  • OU-Developers (Developer Desktop)

    • Enhanced desktop for software development
    • Includes development tools and frameworks
    • Higher resource allocation (CPU/RAM)
    • Requires justification and approval

How Subscription Works

  • Users must submit a Virtual Desktop Service Request to gain access
  • Access is granted based on role, need, and approvals
  • Once approved, users are automatically entitled to the selected pool
  • No dedicated infrastructure setup is required for these pools

Requirements

  • A designated administrator to manage access for the departmental desktop pool.
  • Verification that all installed software is properly licensed.
  • Compliance with OU IT security and privacy policies.
  • Valid CFS codes for subscription setup.

Base Configuration

  • Windows 11 (current IT-approved version)
  • 4 vCPU core’s
  • 8 GB memory
  • 128 GB storage

Billing

  • Pooled Desktops: Monthly billing per unique active user.
  • Persistent Desktops: Monthly billing per desktop.

Virtual Desktop Support (Persistent / Non-Persistent Pools)

Provides operational support for users within existing persistent and non-persistent virtual desktop environments. Focus is on maintaining functionality, access, and performance of assigned desktops and associated services.
Support Coverage Includes:

  • Desktop Issues: Troubleshooting stability, session behavior, and general virtual desktop problems.
  • Access & Login Errors: Resolving authentication failures, connection issues, session launch failures, and MFA-related problems.
  • Performance Issues: Addressing slowness, lag, resource contention, and degraded user experience within virtual sessions.
  • Application Functionality: Supporting applications delivered within the desktop environment, including crashes, errors, and usability issues.
  • Profile Management (FSLogix): Diagnosing profile load failures, corrupt profiles, sign-in delays, and data persistence issues.
  • OneDrive & File Sync: Resolving sync failures, access issues, and integration problems within the virtual desktop.

Scope Notes

  • Applies only to existing desktop pools (no provisioning or design changes)
  • Includes both persistent (dedicated) and non-persistent (pooled) user environments
  • Focused on incident resolution and user experience continuity

Support

Cost

  • Pooled Desktop: Starting at $38.72 per active user per month.
  • Persistent Desktop: Starting at $46.74 per month (backup not included).
    • Optional backup is available at $0.25 per GB of storage.
    • A standard 128 GB of storage adds $32 for backup service.
  • Optional resource add-ons:
    • vCPU $1.50 per core.
    • Memory (RAM) $2.25 per GB.
    • Storage $0.08 per GB.

Availability

  • OU faculty, staff, departments, and groups.
  • OU students and student groups with departmental sponsorship.