How to manage golden images during updates

Question

We are planning to deploy Azure Virtual Desktop for around 200 users. What is the best way to manage and maintain golden images so that updates and application changes can be handled efficiently without impacting users?

Answer 1

Hello @Paul Jose Pullen ,

We recommend using a Windows 10 or 11 multi-session (with or without Microsoft 365) or Windows Server image for pooled host pools. As shown in below snippet-

Firstly, sign in to the source VM and start customizing it with apps, updates, and other things you'll need for your image. If the VM needs to be domain-joined during customization, remove it from the domain before running sysprep. If you need to install many apps, we recommend you take multiple snapshots to revert your VM if a problem happens. Make sure you've done the following things before taking the final snapshot:

• Install the latest Windows updates.
• Complete any necessary cleanup, such as cleaning up temporary files, defragmenting disks, and removing unnecessary user profiles.

Please follow this link for detailed information- https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/virtual-desktop/set-up-golden-image#create-an-image-from-an-azure-vm

Note:

The VM used for taking the image must be deployed without "Login with Microsoft Entra ID" flag. During the deployment of Session Hosts in Azure Virtual Desktop, if you choose to add VMs to Microsoft Entra ID you are able to Login with AD Credentials too.

Once a VM is generalized, it cannot be used again. Be sure to take a snapshot of the VM before capturing the image (Golden Image).

Please let us know if you have any further questions. I’m happy to assist. Thank you!

Answer 2

To manage and maintain golden images for Azure Virtual Desktop efficiently, especially for a deployment involving around 200 users, consider the following best practices:

1. Automate Image Updates: Use Azure VM Image Builder to automate the build, update, system preparation, and distribution processes for your golden images. This helps ensure that you have the latest updates and reduces manual errors.
2. Deployment Strategies: When updating your VMs, you can either:
   • Deploy a second host pool and assign users to it once it's ready. This allows you to keep the original host pool available for rollback if needed.
   • Set your original VMs to drain mode and deploy new VMs from a new golden image into the same host pool. This method is riskier as it may lead to resource constraints.
3. Regular Update Cadence: Update your virtual machines from the golden image at a regular cadence (typically every 1-3 months). If your organization is highly automated, you might be able to increase the frequency of updates.
4. Use Version Control: Implement a version control system to manage scripts and installers used during the image creation process. This will help in rolling back applications or data if necessary.
5. Monitor and Test: Regularly validate the performance and compliance of your golden images. Automate testing processes to ensure that any updates do not disrupt user experience.
6. Backup and Recovery: For valuable data that is frequently updated, consider using backups in addition to golden images to ensure data integrity and quick recovery in case of issues.

By following these practices, you can efficiently manage your golden images and minimize the impact of updates and application changes on your users.

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References:

• Host pool golden image updates
• Image management
• Design considerations