It’s time to rethink virtual desktop management. If you’re still working with traditional solutions, such as Citrix, you’ve probably noticed the cracks: high costs, complicated setups, and clunky management. The combination of Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Nerdio offers a smarter, simpler way forward. Here’s why AVD + Nerdio is the future of virtual desktops.
1. Cut costs without cutting corners
Why overpay for licensing and hardware when you don’t have to? AVD comes with straightforward licensing, often included with Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Compare that to Citrix, which requires additional RDS CALs and long-term contracts.
Nerdio sweetens the deal with pay-as-you-go pricing and advanced auto-scaling that matches resources to your actual needs. No unnecessary spending, no headaches.
2. Integrate seamlessly with the Microsoft ecosystem
AVD is a native Microsoft solution and is designed to work perfectly with tools you already rely on, such as Entra ID, Microsoft 365, Teams, and Defender. It’s part of the Microsoft Cloud ecosystem, meaning everything from identity management to security is unified under one roof.
Nerdio takes that streamlined experience to the next level. With Nerdio Manager, you can oversee your entire virtual desktop environment, manage users, and configure policies—all from a single console. It simplifies complex workflows, cuts down on the back-and-forth between tools, and lets your IT team focus on more strategic tasks. Together, AVD and Nerdio deliver an all-in-one solution for modern virtual desktop management.
3. Automate the boring stuff
Managing virtual desktops shouldn’t feel like running a marathon. With Nerdio Manager, tasks that used to take hours—such as updating images or deploying apps—can be done in minutes.
Features in Nerdio Manager, including Unified Application Management and Scripted Actions, empower you to handle application updates, configurations, and rollouts with just a few clicks. That means fewer late nights for IT and fewer interruptions for your users.
4. Enhance scalability and flexibility
AVD was designed using Azure components, which means it adjusts to your needs on the fly and is optimized for the cloud. Whether it’s a seasonal spike in users or long-term growth, you can expand (or shrink) your environment as needed.
But what really sets Nerdio apart is its dynamic scaling. Nerdio adjusts resources automatically based on real-time usage, so you’re never overspending or underpowered. Flexibility, meet efficiency.
5. Deliver superior performance that keeps up with your team
Citrix’s HDX protocol has long been a leader in remote performance, but AVD’s RDP protocol has quickly caught up. With features such as RDP Shortpath, AVD delivers faster connections and smoother experiences, even in high-bandwidth environments.
Pair this with Azure’s global infrastructure, and your team gets fast, reliable access wherever they are. No lag, no frustration.
6. Simplify profile and policy management
User profiles and policies can be a nightmare to manage, especially during migrations. Citrix environments often depend on fragmented tools, leaving IT with extra work.
AVD uses FSLogix for profiles, simplifying things right out of the gate. Nerdio takes this further by automating configurations and integrating with Azure Files for secure, hassle-free storage. Policies are just as easy to manage, with clear options for tailoring host pools and settings.
7. Streamline migration processes
Moving from Citrix to AVD might seem overwhelming, but Nerdio makes it easy. You can import existing images, clean up what you don’t need, and start fresh with a few clicks.
Nerdio’s tools handle the heavy lifting—automating image setup, application deployments, and profile creation. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing environment, the process is smooth, fast, and painless.
The future of virtual desktops is here—are you ready?
AVD + Nerdio isn’t just a replacement for Citrix—it’s a smarter, more efficient way to manage virtual desktops. With lower costs, simplified management, and a platform built on Microsoft’s trusted cloud infrastructure, it’s the solution organizations need to stay ahead.
Ready to make the switch? Download the full migration guide to learn how to transition from Citrix to Azure Virtual Desktop with Nerdio.