Citrix Xenapp 6 Optimization Guide

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Windows 2008 R2
Optimization Guide
For Desktop Virtualization with
XenApp 6 / 6.5

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Contents
Overview ............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Windows 2008 R2 Configuration.................................................................................................................... 4
User Settings .....................................................................................................................................................20
Revision History...............................................................................................................................................24

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Overview
When considering desktop virtualization with Citrix FlexCast technologies, one method for
delivering services to end-users is through the use of hosted shared desktops using Citrix XenApp.
Hosted shared desktops can deliver a locked down, streamlined and standardized environment
ideally suited for task workers where personalization is not required.Delivering hosted shared
virtual desktop requires proper planning and configuration to maximize the scalability of server
resources while providing users with an optimized and functional desktop environment. This
document outlines optimizations for XenApp 6 on Windows Server 2008 R2 to meet these goals.
These configurations typically add value by enhancing the user experience and increasingsystem
performance. For example, some of the changes optimize the user experience by enabling faster
logons, reducing unnecessary prompts, and quicker screen updates. Others optimize performance
and increase scalability by reducing unnecessary processor, memory, disk and network usage.
However, certain modifications allow for greater scalability but at the cost of the user experience. As
manyorganizations will demand a user experience similar to the traditional desktop, care must be
taken when applying optimization settings. Many of these settings are identified within the
remainder of the document.
A note on Registry Settings:
Many of the configurations recommended in this document are changes to the registry. Registry
changes can be implemented in a number of ways and there isnot necessarily one way that is best
for all deployments. The simplest way to implement many of these is to modify the registry manually
using “regedit.exe” or creating and executing a “.REG” file. Automated ways of modifying the
registry, including Group Policy or other third-party tools, are also possible. All registry
modifications listed in this document use the “.REG” file syntax so thatthey can be easily copied
and pasted into a customized “.REG” file.
Caution: All of the registry settings mentioned in this document must be analyzed for benefit and risk to your
environment. Modifying the registry incorrectly can cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall the
operating system. Citrix cannot guarantee that problems resulting from incorrectly modifying the registrycan be solved.
Modify the registry at your own risk. Backup the registry or disk image before making changes.

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Windows 2008 R2 Configuration
General
The following items, which are configurable by means of Group Policies, are recommended for all deployment scenarios and would almost
always be desirable in a XenApp hosted shared desktop implementation:
Item
Error ReportingPath (Computer Configuration)
Administrative Templates – Windows Components –
Windows Error Reporting
Disable Windows Error Reporting: Enabled
Disable Customer Administrative Templates – System – Internet
Experience
Communication Management – Internet
Improvement
Communication Settings
Program (CEIP)
Turn off Windows Customer Experience Improvement
Program: Enabled
Windows Update...