Desktop virtualization infrastructure (VDI) was supposed to solve so many problems. Instead, for IT operations, it signaled the need to buy and operate ever-growing server farms and manage complex virtual machines and redundant underlying operating systems. For users, VDI became synonymous with poor performance and limited (or no) access to desktop functions for knowledge workers and employees on the go.

But an emerging player with a different approach to virtualization says everything we think we know about desktop virtualization is wrong. Zirtu aims to disrupt traditional notions of desktop virtualization, removing the requirement for servers and thin clients, simplifying IT management, cutting costs and delivering full desktop functionality to end users - even those who are constantly on the go. This last point - full desktop virtualization for mobile staff - is key in a world where mobile workforces are quickly becoming the rule rather than the exception.

"We've been indoctrinated to think a certain way about desktop virtualization," notes Zirtu Vice President Jake Lifshits. "But it doesn't have to be the expensive, complex, inflexible, dysfunctional solution IT professionals and users alike have experienced. Zirtu delivers massive per-server density, seamless performance, offline capabilities and an excellent user experience. In short, we've redefined desktop virtualization. And we've taken it on the road."

Designed with client-side computing in mind, Zirtu accesses storage to house user containers - called Virtual DNA Containers - that run natively on the user's end-point machine (real - not virtual). This provides users with the same desktop experience anywhere at any time and on any end-point. It not only eliminates the need to purchase and manage costly servers and client-side hardware, it reduces licensing costs to enable even smaller enterprises to take advantage of a brand-new approach to virtualization.

Zirtu addresses a major pain-point for companies fielding increasingly mobile workforces: Offsite users can simply login from any computer and instantly access their stored desktop functions. They have full access to all their applications and personalization. If their connection goes down, they can continue working offline seamlessly. When reconnected, all changes made while offline are updated to the centrally-stored Virtual DNA Container.

Type 0 Hypervisor technology makes it all possible: Instead of using traditional Type 2 and 1 hypervisors that require a virtual hardware layer and underlying operating systems that hamper performance and connectivity and require IT staff intervention, Zirtu's Type 0 Hypervisor provides a true virtual desktop that runs natively on the end-point machine, delivering the same workflow and environment users expect - with no training required.

It executes the user's Virtual DNA Container directly and natively on the actual hardware layer without involving redundant intermediaries. In essence, the end-point computer becomes replaceable and completely stateless, meaning employees can use their own computers without worrying about backup and disaster recovery any longer. The result? A better experience for users and fewer headaches for the IT organization.

Not surprisingly, Zirtu already enjoys strong interest from Fortune 500 companies, whose innovation-focused IT units are already implementing Zirtu deployments and looking to expand those to enterprise-wide desktop virtualization strategy toward Q4 2012.

Finally - a great leap forward in virtualization technology, and one that actually fulfills the promise of VDI, including full functionality for knowledge and mobile workers. Find out more about Zirtu at www.zirtu.com .