Configure host pool and session host settings

In Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop, host pools and session host settings play a crucial role in providing a scalable and efficient virtual desktop infrastructure. By properly configuring and managing these settings, administrators can ensure optimal performance, security, and user experience.

1. Creating a Host Pool:

To begin, let’s discuss how to configure and create a host pool in Azure Virtual Desktop:

1. Start by accessing the Azure portal and navigating to Azure Virtual Desktop.

2. Select “Host pools” from the left-hand menu and click on the “Add” button to create a new host pool.

3. Enter a name and resource group for the host pool.

4. Choose the session host VM size and the type of load balancing algorithm you want to use.

5. Enable or disable the option to “Autoscale” based on pre-defined conditions.

6. Configure the user assignment settings to determine how users will be assigned to the host pool.

7. Review and confirm the settings, then click “Create” to create the host pool.

2. Configuring Session Host Settings:

Once the host pool is created, you can configure various session host settings to customize the virtual desktop experience. Let’s explore some essential session host settings:

1. Load Balancing:

   Ensure that the load balancing algorithm selected during host pool creation adequately distributes user connections across session hosts. Load balancing can be configured based on either “User Count” or “Session Count.”

2. Session Timeout:

   Specify the session timeout duration to automatically log off disconnected or idle sessions. This setting helps manage resource utilization and improve security.
3. Active Hours:

   Define the active hours during which the session hosts should be available for user connections. This prevents users from connecting to virtual desktops during maintenance windows or non-working hours.

4. Automatic Reboot:

   Configure automatic reboot schedules to ensure that session hosts receive updates and patches without interrupting user sessions. Specify the day of the week and time when the reboot should occur.

5. Drive Redirection:

   Customize drive redirection settings to control which local drives are accessible from the virtual desktop sessions. Enable or disable drive redirection based on organizational policies and security requirements.
6. Printer Redirection:

   Configure printer redirection options to determine whether printers connected to the client device will be automatically redirected to the virtual desktop sessions. Printers can be selectively redirected based on user or administrator preferences.

7. Clipboard Redirection:

   Choose whether clipboard redirection should be enabled or disabled to allow users to copy and paste content between the local device and the virtual desktop session. Consider security implications when enabling this feature.

These are just a few examples of the session host settings that can be configured in Azure Virtual Desktop. Depending on your organization’s requirements, you may need to explore additional settings and configurations.

Note: Ensure proper user rights and permissions while configuring host pool and session host settings. Consider following least-privilege principles to restrict unnecessary access.

Conclusion:

Configuring host pool and session host settings is crucial for optimal performance and user experience in Azure Virtual Desktop. By creating the host pool with appropriate settings and customizing session host configurations, administrators can ensure efficient resource allocation, security, and user satisfaction. Remember to refer to Microsoft’s official documentation for detailed information about each setting and stay updated with any new features or updates released by Microsoft.