Olga Weis
Last updated May 28, 2024
This guide is particularly helpful for anyone in search of the most convenient Citrix USB redirector.
Keep on reading for some really useful info on not just one but two straightforward and easy methods you can use to enable USB redirection in Citrix.
Citrix USB redirection utilizes HDX technology to optimize support for most USB devices, enhancing user experience through better performance and bandwidth efficiency, especially in high latency or security-sensitive environments. HDX technology allows for the redirection of specialty devices that do not have optimized support. This includes devices that require direct access by applications, devices with advanced features not supported by optimization, or those that have driver availability only on specific operating systems.
Generic USB redirection is particularly useful as it does not require installation of client device drivers; instead, USB client drivers are installed directly on the Virtual Desktop Agent (VDA), simplifying device management across different client platforms .
Recent updates to the Citrix Workspace app for HTML5 and Android have expanded the capabilities of USB redirection. The HTML5 app now supports generic USB device redirection, allowing more flexibility in device management across different operating systems without the need for client-side driver installation. This enhancement is aimed at improving user accessibility and simplifying the configuration process for administrators.
Moreover, Citrix has introduced updates for the Workspace app for Android, which now includes improved USB redirection capabilities, empowering users with better device management and a more seamless experience across mobile platforms. This update reflects Citrix's commitment to enhancing mobile access and usability in virtual desktop environments.
One of the most convenient options for redirecting all sorts of USB peripherals to Citrix XenDesktop is a software called FlexiHub.
FlexiHub boasts a top-level USB redirection feature set combined with a self-explanatory user interface, and this overall makes it perfect for Citrix client USB redirection.
With FlexiHub, you'll be able to effectively address the contentious issues with Citrix USB redirection with just a few mouse clicks, so during your VM sessions, you can freely access USB devices attached to your host PC.
And for the icing on the cake: there is a USB in Remote Desktop version for every popular OS out there, so you can install this app on each of your machines, be it Windows, Linux, Mac, or Android, and use it in all possible combinations.
With Citrix USB support you can redirect USB devices plugged into a physical PC to a virtual desktop so you can access and operate them remotely during your VM sessions.
This feature works for various types of USB peripherals including, but not limited to data tablets, video monitoring cameras, smartphones, memory sticks, printing devices, PDAs, and scanners.
Also, in typical low latency/high-speed LAN environments, there is a Citrix isochronous USB redirection for webcams, acoustic systems, mikes, etc.
Once a USB peripheral is connected to a machine, it gets reviewed for compliance with the USB policy. In cases of non-compliance with said policy, the device will be only accessible from the host machine.
Elsewise, it can be forwarded to the virtual desktop. You can either configure USB support to automate the redirection process, or select devices from the list as often as they are plugged into your PC (after you’ve seen a notification about a new device).
Generic USB redirection feature makes possible the Citrix XenDesktop USB redirection of arbitrary devices from client computers to virtual desktops.
It handles request and response message communication between the XenDesktop VM and client PCs at a low level, so as long as you have all necessary device drivers on your virtual desktop, you can sidestep the hassle of installing those on client systems.
By using this feature, you’ll be able to make use of various USB devices throughout your entire XenDesktop session like if they were attached to your VM directly.
