The Virtual Desktop

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I remember the first time I saw a virtual desktop: it was halfway through a five hour Web Programming class at Carleton University, and the guy sitting a row ahead of me was showing off his command prompt skills to his friends. I watched – initially more for something to do than out of interest – as he demonstrated a virtual desktop. A cube rotated on the screen as desktops were switched back and forth: a rather impressive display of shuffling squares and sliding pictures. Needless to say, there was no longer any hope of the class recapturing my attention.

A virtual desktop is a desktop environment in which the user can place application windows and information. The user can change or toggle between desktops, using two or more individual desktops. The virtual desktops are often organized in a grid or matrix fashion, allowing the user to move icons or applications within and between the individual environments. Clutter is reduced greatly, allowing for a smoother running and more aesthetically pleasing desktop. The individual desktops can also be encrypted to allow only for private use. More recent virtual desktop systems update in real-time, allowing the user to work faster and more efficiently.

Many software companies offer virtual desktop programs, and - depending on the Operating System - open-source programs are also available. A virtual desktop is probably not the most accessible desktop available. Depending on the number of individual desktops running, it can get complex and – like most new technology – takes getting used to. I personally think it has become popular due to its aesthetic design, more than to its practicality. People like impressive graphics that they can slide, rotate, turn, flip, expand, and minimize with a flick of their mouse. Ockham’s Razor comes into play with the virtual desktop. The use of several desktops instead of the traditional singular isn’t necessary, but the recent virtual desktop designs are simplistic and aim to reduce clutter that piles up on the single desktop. The virtual desktop is aimed towards the more experienced user with a high performance computer.