Our systems and applications align with enterprise IT standards. For the broadest compatibility with enterprise printing,
legacy apps, and security tooling, the recommended standard is Microsoft Windows on Intel or AMD x64 (64-bit) processors.
XDESK (Citrix Virtual Desktops)
XSTRA’s XDESK Citrix Virtual Desktops provide a secure, full Windows desktop that works on nearly all hardware
platforms, including Apple macOS, Linux, and Chromebooks.
Citrix App Protection Enforcement
For maximum security and to meet Essential Eight compliance targets, XDESK access, in most cases, is restricted to devices and platforms
that support Citrix App Protection policies (keystroke blocking, anti-screen capture, etc.). Unsupported devices may have limited access or be blocked.
- App Protection is fully supported on Windows (Intel/AMD x64) and modern macOS versions (Monterey or newer)
- Chromebooks, Linux, Windows on ARM, and mobile devices do not support App Protection features
- Use of unsupported devices is permitted only as low-trust, limited-function endpoints
macOS Support (Important)
- We do support macOS devices: our management & monitoring software is installed on Macs.
- While we’re not Mac specialists, we resolve most macOS issues promptly and keep devices compliant.
- Some local workflows (e.g., certain enterprise printer drivers, niche Windows-only tools) may require XDESK or approved alternatives.
Non-Windows Local Work Caveats
- Specialised enterprise printers/scanners may have limited native macOS/Linux/ChromeOS driver support.
- Windows-only line-of-business apps should be accessed via XDESK.
- Some VPN/security/USB drivers are Windows-exclusive; we will provide XDESK-based workarounds where needed.
Devices and Architectures Not Permitted (for Local Windows-only Work)
The following are not approved as primary local Windows workstations. They can still be used as XDESK endpoints, but may lack App Protection compliance and are considered low-trust access points.
- Chromebooks / ChromeOS devices
- Windows on ARM (e.g., Snapdragon-based laptops/tablets)
- iPads and Android tablets (companion devices only)
Approved Standards
- Windows (Intel/AMD x64) – Full local compatibility with enterprise apps, printing, and App Protection security policies.
- Apple macOS (Intel or Apple Silicon) – Supported with our management & monitoring; best results for Windows-only apps via XDESK; App Protection supported from macOS Monterey onwards.
Device & OS Compatibility Matrix
| Device / OS | Approved for Local Use | Supported via XDESK (Virtual Desktop) | Printing & Peripherals (Local) | Management & Monitoring | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows PC (Intel/AMD x64) | ✓ Fully Approved | ✓ | ✓ Full Support | ✓ | Recommended standard; full compatibility with enterprise apps, printers, and Citrix App Protection. |
| Apple Mac (Intel or Apple Silicon) | ✓ Approved (with caveats) | ✓ | ⚠ Partial (model/driver dependent) | ✓ (installed by XSTRA) | Use macOS Monterey or newer for App Protection support; local driver issues may still occur. Use XDESK for Windows-only apps. |
| Chromebook / ChromeOS | ✗ Not Approved as Primary | ✓ (limited) | ✗ Not Supported (local) | ✓ (as XDESK endpoint) | No Citrix App Protection; approved only as low-trust endpoint. Not suitable for compliance-sensitive workflows. |
| Windows on ARM (Snapdragon) | ✗ Not Approved as Primary | ✓ (with caveats) | ✗ Not Supported (local) | ⚠ Limited | No App Protection; poor driver support. Not recommended. |
| Linux Desktop/Laptop | ✗ Not Approved as Primary | ✓ | ✗ Not Supported (local) | ⚠ Limited | App Protection unavailable; only suitable as a thin client for XDESK. |
| iPad / Android Tablet | ✗ Not Approved as Primary | ✓ (via Citrix Workspace App) | ✗ Not Supported (local) | ⚠ Limited | No App Protection; suitable only for light or companion use (email, meetings). |
Before You Buy
- If you need full local compatibility (printing, specialty drivers, Windows-only apps), choose Windows (Intel/AMD x64).
- If you prefer Apple macOS, we will onboard the device with our management & monitoring and support you as part of an XDEVICE – PC Edition subscription; ensure your macOS version supports Citrix App Protection (Monterey or newer).
- Devices that cannot support Citrix App Protection may be blocked or restricted to limited access modes.
- When in doubt, contact your IT team or XSTRA Technical Services on 1300 555 920 before purchasing.
Scope: This guidance applies to all clients using XSTRA services and is intended to prevent procurement of incompatible hardware while supporting user device preference where practical.
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