Dell has introduced new additions and enhancements to its cloud client computing portfolio, which are specific to Citrix-based IT environments.

The new products include vStart for VDI 50 and vStart for VDI 1000, two reference architectures for Citrix XenDesktop 5.6.

The VDI infrastructure applications are pre-engineered, pre-built and pre-integrated converged applications that include Dell’s PowerEdge servers, EqualLogic or Compellent storage, PowerConnect or Force10 networking, Dell Wyse T10, Dell Wyse Xenith Pro and now Dell Wyse Xenith 2 thin- and zero-clients and management plug-ins.

In addition, they also leverage XenDesktop and help organisations achieve benefits of desktop virtualisation in a secure manner.

Dell is also planning to update DVS Simplified Appliance to address the cost and complexity challenges of virtual desktop adoption with new flexible server form factors and support for new hypervisors

The updated DVS Simplified Appliance will include a new 12th generation Dell PowerEdge T620 tower server configured appliance in addition to the existing PowerEdge R720 rack configured appliance, which support up to 66% more users on every appliance over previous generation.

It also offers integration and factory installation of new Citrix VDI-in-a-Box 5.1 software, helping to reduce initial typical deployment time to as little as four hours, supporting 100 virtual desktops.

In addition, Dell will offer optional Managed Services to organisations using Dell DVS Enterprise based on Citrix XenDesktop, a scalable VDI architecture.

Dell Managed Services enables IT organisations to outsource the management of their virtual desktop system and desktop environment so internal IT resources can focus on strategic projects.

The US and Europe based Dell channel partners can now access to Dell’s PartnerDirect Desktop Virtualization Solutions Competency and Cloud Client Computing Partner Advisor, via the Dell PartnerDirect Portal, to better serve their customers’ desktop virtualization needs.

Dell is also announcing new support for Citrix HDX 3D technology for zero- and thin-clients, enabling organisations to virtualise and deliver 3D graphics intensive applications and high performing desktops with like native OS performance.

Citrix HDX 3D support is now available on the Dell Wyse Z90D7 and Dell Wyse X90m7 Windows Embedded Standard 7 fixed and mobile thin-clients and the Dell Wyse Xenith 2 zero-client.

Citrix marketing and partner engagement vice president Krishna Subramanian said with the growth of mobile workplace, the demand for desktop virtualisation is accelerating.

"To address this need, Dell and Citrix are focused on delivering simple, repeatable, end-to-end solutions in the DVS portfolio that streamline deployment and management while expanding the addressable use cases," Subramanian said.