The Two Main Server-Based Desktop Architectures

Technically, there are two basic types of server-based desktops.

Session-based. Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Session Host and Citrix XenApp each use an instance of the Windows Server OS to create an isolated session for each user. Each session, sometimes still called a Terminal Services session, runs on the same server instance and appears to the user as a desktop, with the needed applications and data. Traditionally, these desktops were assigned to task or shift workers who would sign in individually to a shared device at a common work area. Today, such desktops are also used to access Windows applications that will not run locally on a device.

VM-based. Microsoft RDS Virtualization Host and Citrix XenDesktop use an isolated virtual machine (VM) for each user. The VM has its own instance of the Windows OS and runs the applications the user needs in the VM. This is sometimes called a virtual desktop. Typically, these desktops are assigned to knowledge workers, who have their own assigned or personally owned local devices. VM-based desktops are also used to run applications that will not run in a server session.