In Azure Virtual Desktop, what does the term "golden image" refer to?

The term "golden image" in the context of Azure Virtual Desktop refers to a master image that serves as a template for creating session host virtual machines (VMs). This image typically includes the operating system, applications, and configurations that you want to deploy to multiple session hosts.

By using a golden image, organizations can ensure consistency across their virtual desktops, making it easier to manage software updates, security patches, and system configurations. When an admin creates a session host VM, they can use this golden image to streamline the provisioning process, reduce deployment times, and ensure that all users get the same environment.

This concept helps maintain uniformity for end users and simplifies the management of the virtual environment, as changes can be made to the golden image and propagated to all instances derived from it.