Why VXI can help with the fast changing world of workplace technology
By Darryl Wilson, Area Practice Director, Dimension Data Canada
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs continue to proliferate in Canadian business, fuelled by both end user demand and the “consumerization of IT”. Regardless of size, businesses are adapting to these new user demands and their ever-evolving way of working and collaborating. Work is no longer “a place we go,” but rather “something we do.” The chosen location and tools should be irrelevant in this new world of business collaboration.
Now, add to this, the end of support date for Windows XP in April 2014, ubiquitous broadband access, optimized WAN links for VDI, new and improved Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) supporting real time applications (Cisco’s Virtual Experience Infrastructure (VXI)), the BYOD reality, high-end server platforms (Cisco Unified Computing System) providing increased VDI density per blade (~100 desktops per blade) and the increased levels of compliance & disaster recovery requirements should make IT leaders think twice about their computing platform and desktop strategy for end users. Now more than ever, we are seeing numerous reasons to rethink the enterprise’s user desktop experience and computing platform choices.
All of these will make it possible to provide users with a desktop experience on any device (Laptop, Old Machine, iPad, Tablet etc…) that includes support for realtime applications not possible before Cisco’s VXI architectural solution. VXI essentially provides traditional VDI support but the magic or “secret sauce” really shows itself when Real Time Applications (like Voice and Video) are abstracted from the VDI stream and endpoints permitted to communicate directly together without the need to “hairpin” back to the data centre causing significant performance issues around the network, not to mention CPU issues with DC servers & VDI endpoints.
Working with a partner that has deep skills in Networking, Security, Data Centre, Unified Communications and Microsoft will ensure a smooth and optimized deployment of your Cisco VXI solution that provides a unique experience for end users, while assisting with the challenges of BYOD and providing an IT Computing and Communications platform that is scalable, secure, cost effective and green.
Darryl Wilson is the Area Practice Director for Dimension Data Canada, a member of Dimension Data Holdings, plc. As Area Practice Director, Darryl is responsible for development and execution of professional and managed services operations, overall solutions delivery performance, go-to-market strategies and key measurements across Canada, as well as increasing professional services sales engagements. He holds an electronic engineering technology diploma from Algonquin College and is a member of Cisco’s Partner Virtual Team for Convergence. Darryl has well over 10 Cisco certifications and specializations, including Cisco Security Solutions and Design Specialist, Cisco Unified Communications Design Specialist and Cisco Sales Expert designations.
