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VMware View Architecture Planning Guide
Estimating Memory Requirements for Virtual Desktops
n
RAM costs more for servers than it does for PCs. Because the cost of RAM is a high percentage of overall
server hardware costs and total storage capacity needed, determining the correct memory allocation is
crucial to planning your desktop deployment.
Estimating CPU Requirements for Virtual Desktops
n
When estimating CPU, you must gather information about the average CPU utilization for various types
of workers in your enterprise. In addition, calculate that another 10 to 25 percent of processing power is
required for virtualization overhead and peak periods of usage.
Choosing the Appropriate System Disk Size
n
When allocating disk space, provide only enough space for the operating system, applications, and
additional content that users might install or generate. Usually this amount is smaller than the size of
the disk that is included on a physical PC.
Planning Based on Types of Workers
For many configuration elements, including RAM, CPU, and storage sizing, requirements depend largely on
the type of worker who uses the virtual desktop and on the applications that must be installed.
For architecture planning, workers can be categorized into several types.
Task workers
Knowledge workers
Power users
Employees who use
desktops in local mode
only
Kiosk users
30
on page 33
Task workers and administrative workers perform repetitive tasks within a
small set of applications, usually at a stationary computer. The applications are
usually not as CPU- and memory-intensive as those used by knowledge
workers. Task workers who work specific shifts might all log in to their virtual
desktops at the same time. Task workers include call center analysts, retail
employees, warehouse workers, and so on.
Knowledge workers' daily tasks include accessing the Internet, using email,
and creating complex documents, presentations, and spreadsheets. Knowledge
workers include accountants, sales managers, marketing research analysts, and
so on.
Power users include application developers and people who use graphics-
intensive applications.
These users download and run their View desktops only on their local systems,
which reduces datacenter costs associated with bandwidth, memory, and CPU
resources. Scheduled replications ensure that systems and data are backed up.
Administrators configure how often end users' systems must contact
View Manager to avoid being locked out.
These users need to share a desktop that is placed in a public place. Examples
of kiosk users include students using a shared computer in a classroom, nurses
at nursing stations, and computers used for job placement and recruiting. These
desktops require automatic login. Authentication can be done through certain
applications if necessary.
on page 31
on page 33
VMware, Inc.
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