VMworld 2011: VMware, Symantec Partner for Secure Desktop-as-a-Service Products update from September 2011

With the largest VMworld ever as a backdrop, Symantec and VMware have announced that they'll partner to develop new desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) offerings that will include features designed to ease virtual desktop deployment, simplify management, and enhance security. According to Symantec, these new solutions will utilize Symantec Endpoint Protection, the Altiris Client Management Suite, VMware vShield, VMware View, VMware vCloud Director, and VMware vSphere 5 to deliver a "secure, manageable and cost-effective DaaS solution" that leverages "on-premise Virtual Desktop Infrastructures (VDI) with the efficiencies and scalability of cloud computing."

In a statement released in support of the agreement, VMware Vice President and General Manager of End-User Computing Chris Young touted the integrated aspects of these new DaaS solutions. "VMware is committed to enabling the delivery of IT as secure, cloud-based services to end users," Young said. "Through our expanded partnership with Symantec, we can deliver Desktop-as-a-Service solutions for enterprise organizations and service providers that offer the security, management and compliance customers require – all baked directly into a virtual desktop infrastructure and accessible to end users regardless of device or location."

Managing virtual desktops and defending against the ongoing deluge of security threats can be an arduous for many administrators, and Symantec's approach could have appeal to admins who want to streamline their workflow and manage their virtual infrastructure more efficiently. Symantec and VMware haven't provided any names, availability, or pricing information on this new DaaS product yet, but Symantec's statement did indicate that the solution will leverage vCloud and vSphere to provision and manage virtual desktops, while Symantec's Client Management Suite would manage virtual desktops and applications post-deployment. VMware vShield and Symantec Endpoint Protection will be baked into the service to provide protection from malware, viruses and other security threats.

What do you think about VMware and Symantec joining forces for this more integrated approach to virtual desktop deployment, management, and security? Add a comment to this blog post or start up a discussion on Twitter.

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