Benefits of Using Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS)
Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) refers to a cloud-computing approach in which small and
mid-size companies can outsource their virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) to
third party providers. The functionality of this solution heavily depends on
the virtual desktop. Here, a dedicated machine or a user-controlled session
performs services for individuals and organizations.
Some
professionals refer to this service as hosted desktop service or virtual desktop. It enables the effective
management of desktops, laptops, thin clients, handheld devices and other
computer resources. Depending on the type of implementation, the approach can
use remote execution or distributed execution.
On
the same vein, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is defined as a shadow copy of
a desktop. It contains the operating system of a computer, its applications,
and documents. These resources are stored and executed from the cloud where
users have the rights of access from any assigned device.
DaaS
in the Public Cloud
In
the public cloud, Desktop as a Service is a great alternative to traditional IT
solutions. For this reason, you need to invest in it if you run a small
organization on limited resources. It offers high levels of availability and
performance.
The
following are advantages of DaaS in the public cloud-
- Easy migration from one platform
to another
- Reduction of total costs
- Reduced complexity
- Easy disaster recovery
- Enhanced performance
If
you want your services to be hosted on the public cloud, you can take advantage
of several providers. Examples are HP Helion and Amazon Web Services. These
provide hosting services around the globe. To optimize performance of your
desktop services, insist on hosting in a data center near them.
The
duration of provision ranges from a few minutes. Most software allows
administrators to develop, manage and delete desktops for clients.
Additionally, they can pool your infrastructure from a central dashboard.
Perhaps
the most important feature of a Desktop as a Service solution is multi-tenancy.
Just as the name suggests, you have the freedom to separate desktops for
different customers. This is possible by registering new users and accounts.
DaaS
in the Private Cloud
If
you want to access desktops from any device with Internet connection, discover
the importance of private cloud services. Users with tablets, smart phone,
laptops and PCs can gain access.
However,
you need to be firm on the login details in order to enhance security. While
DaaS promises to keep your private data private, you have a responsibility as
far as the login details are concerned.
To
reduce the cost of hosted desktop solutions, you can take advantage of power
plans. This means that the services will be ready for users when they need
them. Desktops will be powered down when no user wants to gain access. This
way, your users will never have to wait for hours to gain access.
The
following are additional benefits.
- Uninterrupted complexity
- Reliability
- Personalization
- Security of data
You
will have to pay the public cloud for the desktop usage services offered. The
cost depends on the level of performance that you choose and the duration that
your desktop runs. Usually, providers extend these services on a monthly
subscription model.
Introduction
to Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
Virtual
Desktop Access is a system where users can gain access to resources belonging to
a corporate organization from anywhere, using any internet-connected device at
any time. The changing of business demands and the struggle for companies to
remain competitive brought about this phenomenon.
For
example, Windows Desktop Virtualization allows users to access corporate
information from any location with ease. Additionally, it guarantees the safety
of data stored in the datacenter. This allows the efficient scaling of
resources to meet the ever-evolving business needs.
Another
advantage is the fact that data is never stored on users' devices. This
eliminates the likelihood of losing data when these devices crush, are stolen
or maliciously destroyed. The following are benefits of obtaining a Virtual
Desktop Access (VDA) license:
- Applications and features can run
on any device
- Choose from special deployment
models depending on your needs
- Meet changing business needs by
scaling up or down
- Provide user experience with
applications similar to those running on local PC
- Maintain high compliance of data
and resources
Ensure
you obtain the strongest virtual desktop solutions to prevent a number of
limitations. One common drawback is the fact that it is difficult to set up and
manage printer drivers. Additionally, you can suffer from an increased downtime
incase the network fails.
Another
common disadvantage is the compromise of data associated with improper
management of the network. Basic security risks can hurt a company if you do
not seal minor security loopholes in your business. The complexity and high
costs of obtaining a VDA license is another downside.
How
DaaS Licensing Works
You
will need a VDA license if your organization has various branches spread across
various physical locations. Managers and users from individual branches can
access data that is shared on the system. This minimizes the time and resources
wasted when accessing information using conventional approaches.
The
administrator of the system can assign login rights to a number
of people. He can also monitor users to know who accesses the system at a
particular time. Some VDA solutions prevent users from copying, deleting, or
otherwise doctoring the records.
Got
VDA? You're not done yet
If
you have a virtual desktop license, you need to measure the efficiency of the
system. Memory utilization, for example, is one metric that determines the
efficiency. This refers to the virtual and physical memory that each machine
uses.
In
addition, a high rate of responsiveness is important. This refers to the time
it takes for a user's query to yield result. This could range from a simple
mouse click, keyboard command or search through the data center. The efficiency
metrics may depend on the number of users that your desktop connects to as well
as the type of network it uses.
Conclusion
If your business still transacts business in the traditional
manner, it is time to invest in virtualization solutions. You can start the
procedures by contacting Xangati, a leading provider of virtualization services
at a competitive price. This way, you will introduce your managers, users and
customers to an efficient IT system that eliminates most traditional drawbacks.
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About the Author
Kevin Patel is a
Service Assurance Technology Analyst at Xangati. A self-proclaimed tech geek,
with a passion for the ever-changing world of virtualized and hybrid-cloud
environments, Kevin has a passion for dissecting tech topics such as
virtualization, data center migration, storage, networking and cloud. On his days
off, he can be found watching sci-fi movies, rock climbing or volunteering.