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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
Introduction
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) allows authorized users to access a Western Union workstation
from any location with internet connection. Users will be connected to a virtual machine to access
all the approved tools and systems that they will need to perform their work. This guide will provide
you with the tools you will need to get started with VDI.
Table of Contents
A: Download VMware Horizon................................................................................................................ 2
B: Login to VDI – Twice! ............................................................................................................................ 4
C: Check Your Settings ............................................................................................................................ 6
Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................................................... 8
Resources ............................................................................................................................................... 10
WU Help Desk Contact Information ..................................................................................................... 11
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Getting Started with VDI 1 | Page
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
1. In order to download
VMware Horizon on your OS Link
computer, click on the VMware for https://docs.vmware.com/en/VMware-Horizon-Client-for-
associated link for your Linux Linux/5.4/rn/horizon-client-linux-54-release-notes.html
Operating System.
VMware for https://my.vmware.com/web/vmware/details?productId=863&r
Note: When you click on the iOS PId=44067&downloadGroup=CART21FQ1_MAC_541
click, it will automatically
start the install. VMWare for https://download3.vmware.com/software/view/viewclients/CA
Windows RT21FQ1/VMware-Horizon-Client-5.4.1-15897311.exe
2. Download VMware
Horizon and click Agree
& Install
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Infrastructure (VDI)
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Infrastructure (VDI)
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
Click Login
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
Click OK
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Getting Started with VDI 7 | Page
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
1. Do I need certain internet bandwidth to run VDI? What do I do if I experience performance issues?
Bandwidth requirements are minimal; however, having consistent internet connectivity is crucial. Many Wi-Fi networks can
become oversaturated causing connectivity to be unreliable. If you experience performance issues (lags, “choppy” videos)
while you are on Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired connection.
Yes. If you have dual monitors you will able to use them through VDI; however, you will be limited to two monitors.
3. Can I use my USB devices (mice, keyboard, web cams, headsets, etc.) while working on VDI?
Most USB devices are supported with the virtual desktop; however, external storage devices are not supported.
User documents can be stored in “My Documents” folder on the VDI or on Box. Your VDI storage quota will be capped at
10GB. We highly recommend you use Box, which is Western Union’s approved cloud storage and collaboration platform.
Access to other cloud storage applications, such as Dropbox, Google Docs and equivalents, are blocked by Western Union.
No. For compliance reasons, moving files between your physical desktop and the VDI is not allowed. In order to access your
files from the VDI, you will need to store your files on a WU shared drive or in Box.
6. Will I have the same applications on VDI as I currently have on my physical workstation?
Every attempt has been made to provide you with the same or similar application to hose you had on our desktop which should
allow you to complete your job functions. If you find an application that you need is missing, create a ServiceNow ticket to
request the application. Be sure to indicate that the request is for your virtual desktop.
No, you will not be able to install applications on your VDI unless you have local admin rights. However, because the VDI is not
persistent, if you do install an application onto your virtual desktop, it will not be available for you the next time you log in.
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
8. I heard that my VDI is non-persistent and subject to instance cloning. What does it mean to me?
Unlike most of physical workstations (which work in a persistent mode), each time you launch your WU VDI, a “fresh” virtual
desktop will be provisioned. Although your new desktop may have a different name or IP address, all your applications,
documents, preferences, and other settings will be restored.
When you are ready to end your session, select Options -> Disconnect and Log Off
10. Where is my Virtual Desktop image located? Will it be copied to my local hard drive?
All VDIs are hosted on designated WU servers. No VDI components (including user data) will be stored on local drives.
11. Do all users have access to the same applications and WU resources (servers, shared drives, etc.)?
No. The list of applications and WU resources that you will have access to from your virtual desktop is dependent on the
company that your work for, your job function, and your Active Directory (AD) permissions.
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Getting Started with Virtual Desktop
Infrastructure (VDI)
Resources
Virtual Desktop User Group https://westernunion.jiveon.com/groups/vdi-user-group
Official WULife page containing information about
Western Union’s Virtual Desktop Solutions http://tinyurl.com/wuvdi
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Infrastructure (VDI)
LACA Region
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