Audio calling without optimization:ĬPU in the VDI during a Skype call without video: Within my lab environment, I have captured some data (CPU and Network) to show the difference in running in fallback mode(non-optimized) versus optimized. When the Horizon Agent and Client are compatible for the virtualization pack according to the table above, the Virtualization pack for Skype for Business should look like the picture below:
I will update the table as soon as I have test results.
This is an expected result based on other combinations. *Unfortunately, I could not test every combination.
The table below shows the Virtualization Pack status within the different Client and Agent combinations, according to and my own personal testing: Horizon Agent The most common cause for the fallback mode is a version mismatch between the Horizon Client on the endpoint and the Horizon Agent in the VDI or RDS host In the picture below, we notice the Virtualization Pack is running in Fallback mode meaning there is no optimization happening and thus using RTAV. One of the reasons for writing this blog is the question from customers why the virtualization pack is running in fallback mode or why the Skype for Business client is still taking a lot of resources. When logging in to the virtual desktop session, check the engine status in the notification area (marked with the white circle).
The VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business is installed by default if installing any client newer than 4.6 for Windows and 4.7 for macOS users.
Install the Horizon Client on the endpoint.Make sure you have Skype for business installed ( do not use the Basic client!).During the VMware Horizon Agent setup in the VDI or RDS host(starting with version 7.2), select the VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business feature.But before we start we have to make sure we meet the basic requirements: Making use of the virtualization pack for Skype is easy.
The picture below shows the stream within a non-optimized audio/video stream and one while the VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business optimizes the stream allowing communication directly between endpoints. With this media engine, we have the ability to offload the media stream to the endpoint of the end-user. The VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business allows Horizon customers to deliver a great user experience in a virtual desktop session by making usage of a media engine. The answer for this is the VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business. This post has already been read 19665 times! What is VMware Horizon Virtualization Pack for Skype for Business?Īs many customers are using Skype for Business as part of their Office365 subscriptions, they are looking to get a rich user experience and at the same time minimize the number of resources that audio or video calling consumes in their VDI or RDSH environments.