Organizations that run parallel IT systems consisting of similar or complementary platforms in both on-premise and cloud environments will find less complexity and better integration with the use of a connection broker to manage virtual and physical resources, advise experts from Leostream Corporation, creator of the world-leading Leostream Remote Desktop Access Platform. 

Parallel IT systems-commonly running both VMware vSphere and Amazon Web Services (AWS) or other cloud provider-offer a ‘best of both worlds' approach so businesses make the most efficient use of each technology based on their specific needs. However, running dual platforms can double the management overhead, decrease efficiency, and increase costs.

Connection brokers can be indispensable intermediaries in parallel IT systems, serving multiple functions beyond remote desktop tasks including resource allocation, access control, and policy enforcement. Their ability to orchestrate and manage resources in parallel IT environments helps deliver continuity, resilience, and flexibility. Here are key reasons to deploy a connection broker in parallel IT systems:

Unified, centralized control

In environments where various virtualization and cloud platforms are used simultaneously, such as vSphere and AWS, the connection broker provides a single point of control for all resources, streamlining management and reducing complexity. With customizable integration capabilities, organizations can better tailor their IT environments to their specific requirements, streamlining workflows and enhancing overall productivity.

Strategic resource allocation

A connection broker dynamically assesses and fulfills resource demands across various applications and user groups to maintain optimal performance and availability. Even in fluctuating workloads, it proactively allocates additional resources to prevent bottlenecks. Organizations may find this helps reduce the cost of scaling, especially compared to overprovisioning hardware or cloud resources.

Consistent, seamless user experience

A connection broker delivers consistent access to resources, regardless of whether they're hosted on VMWare vSphere or AWS, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction. By facilitating connections over various protocols like RDP, VNC, SSH, and more, connection brokers give users access from anywhere, any time, and nearly any device.

Security and compliance

A connection broker is a single point of control enforcing security policies across both virtual and physical platforms. In addition, a connection broker performs real-time monitoring and rapid response to potential security threats or policy violations. Whether managing login credentials, user sessions, or access rights, the potential for human error that leads to a security breach is radically reduced.

Disaster recovery and business continuity

A connection broker can play an important role in DR/BC by managing replication and failover between on-premises and AWS environments. Connection brokers automatically redirect users to viable resources, which minimizes downtime in the event of a failure in one of the underlying platforms.

"Organizations need sophisticated tools to manage parallel IT systems with agility and efficiency, and connection brokers like Leostream's bridge the gap between virtualized infrastructures and cloud-based resources," said Leostream CEO Karen Gondoly. "A connection broker is becoming a necessary component of these environments and plays an important role in ensuring a unified user experience and efficient utilization of computing resources across diverse platforms."

The Leostream Remote Desktop Access Platform offers a comprehensive connection broker solution that provides management, access, and control over virtual and physical resources within a network. In parallel IT systems built on vSphere and AWS, Leostream's connection broker can unify, optimize, and simplify the management of diverse resources across both on-premises and cloud environments.