VMware announced a new certification program for thin client devices. Thin clients that have small footprints and price tags - because they use centralized servers for most of their processing power - provide a cost-effective alternative to standard PCs when used in conjunction with VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure.

VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a comprehensive desktop virtualization solution that replaces traditional PCs with virtual machines that are centralized in the datacenter and available to users from any device.

This model streamlines desktop management while reducing desktop TCO, increasing IT's control, improving data security and enhancing user experience, flexibility and productivity. When VDI is used with a thin client device, customers can extend the desktop life cycle, dramatically reduce energy consumption and further reduce costs associated with maintaining a traditional PC.

The new VMware certification program will enable VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure customers to choose from a wide variety of thin client devices officially certified for VMware products. VMware's open standards ensure that thin client devices running on multiple platforms will deliver a consistent experience for virtual desktop users. Organizations choose what type of device suits their business needs and are not tied to a specific device that will only support VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure.

“As enterprises increasingly standardize their desktop environments using VMware Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, it is important to offer customers the broadest choice of thin client options available,” said Jeff Jennings, vice president, desktop products and solutions, VMware. “With an expanding community of thin client vendors, customers can select from a wide range of devices that are specifically designed and optimized to work with VMware virtual desktops.”

Chip PC, Computer Lab International (CLI), Devon IT, Fujitsu Siemens Computers, HP, IGEL, NEC, Pano Logic, Praim by CompuMaster, Sun Microsystems, and Wyse are among the thin client vendors who will be certifying their clients as part of the new program. After the thin client device has been certified, it will be listed on the VMware Certified Compatibility Guide: http://www.vmware.com/resources/guides.html. Customers can be assured that devices listed in the guide have passed VMware's testing criteria for interoperability and quality assurance listed here: http://www.vmware.com/resources/guides.html

VMware launched its hardware certification program in 2000 to enable VMware and its hardware partners to fully test and optimize their products for VMware Infrastructure. Nearly 2,000 different server and storage hardware models are currently certified, representing products from 46 vendors. VMware is working directly with a variety of its Technology Alliance Partner (TAP) program members and OEM partners to certify their thin client devices.