What is Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)?

In today’s cloud-first world, the need for flexible, secure, and scalable desktop environments has never been greater. One of the most recognized solutions in this space is Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD). But what is AVD, and how does it compare to other virtualization options like Citrix or GO-Global?

Let’s dive into the history, ideal use cases, and how AVD stacks up against other remote desktop solutions.

A Brief History of Azure Virtual Desktop

Microsoft originally launched its virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution under the name Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) in 2019. It was built on Azure and offered multi-session Windows 10/11 desktop environments, tightly integrated with Microsoft's ecosystem.

In 2021, WVD was rebranded as Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) to better reflect its Azure-native identity. This change also came with improvements in scalability, security, and user experience—making AVD a solid choice for organizations deeply invested in Microsoft technologies.

The Best Use Cases for AVD

AVD shines in enterprise environments that require:

• Scalability: Enterprises with thousands of users benefit from AVD’s auto-scaling capabilities.
• Centralized Management: Admins can manage apps and desktops through the Azure portal and integrate with Microsoft Endpoint Manager.
• Security: Azure Active Directory integration and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint support secure remote access.
• Windows Multi-Session Support: This allows multiple users to share the same Windows VM without needing multiple licenses.

AVD is a strong solution for industries like finance, healthcare, and legal, where compliance, data control, and a consistent desktop experience are mission-critical.

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AVD vs. Citrix and GO-Global

So how does AVD compare to other well-known remote desktop technologies?

AVD vs. Citrix

Citrix has long been a leader in desktop and application virtualization. It offers extensive customization and advanced features like HDX optimization for multimedia and better WAN performance. However, Citrix can be:

• Complex to manage: Requires additional infrastructure and third-party components.
• Expensive: Licensing and deployment costs can add up quickly.
• Overkill for many ISVs: Especially those who just need to deliver a few apps remotely.

AVD offers tighter integration with Microsoft environments, slightly better pricing (as part of Azure), and native cloud features—but may still require Azure-specific expertise to manage effectively.

AVD vs. GO-Global

GO-Global is designed specifically for Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) who want to deliver Windows applications to any device—without rewriting code or deploying a full-blown virtual desktop infrastructure.

Compared to AVD:

• Simplicity: GO-Global is lightweight and easy to deploy—no need for domain controllers or Azure-specific tools.
• Performance: Optimized for application delivery, not full desktop virtualization.
• Cost Efficiency: Priced per concurrent user, GO-Global avoids the overhead of per-user Azure compute costs.
• No Azure Lock-In: Works on any infrastructure—cloud, hybrid, or on-prem.

For ISVs that want to offer their apps as a service or remotely enable customers, GO-Global is a cost-effective and straightforward choice.

Conclusion: Looking for an AVD Alternative?

If you're asking, what is AVD, and whether it's the right fit for your organization, the answer depends on your goals. AVD is a powerful solution for enterprises managing complex virtual desktop environments. But for ISVs focused on delivering Windows applications to remote users, AVD may be more infrastructure than you need—and more expensive than you’d like.

That’s why many ISVs are turning to GO-Global. It provides the essential features of application virtualization—without the bulk, complexity, or high cost of AVD or Citrix.

Bottom line: If you're looking for an AVD alternative that’s tailored to ISVs, GO-Global is a solution worth serious consideration.

Interested in learning more about GO-Global as an AVD alternative? Schedule some time with our team or download a free trial.

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