Writing software with chopsticks: an intro to developing on VDIs

Virtual desktop infrastructures (VDIs) are a form of virtualization that enables remote access to a full desktop environment. However, they can significantly impact developer experience due to issues such as constantly losing state, incorrect operating systems, inability to use dual monitors or larger screens, application installation restrictions, latency and resourcing issues. Cloud development environments (CDEs) are recommended for enabling secure, remote development without hindering typical developer workflows. They offer benefits like faster onboarding, consistency and reproducibility of development environments, better collaboration between peers, and reduced endpoint security risks.