Key Benefits of Desktop as a Service (DaaS)
Desktop as a Service (DaaS) involves hosting remote virtualized desktops through a remote server simultaneously. This makes IT tasks exponentially easier. There is no longer a need for IT professionals to physically visit each computer to carry out repetitive tasks – for example, applying a major upgrade – since all machines connected to the cloud are effectively accessing the same applications and data.
An overview of DaaS
In DaaS computing, each user’s computer is a workstation in the cloud. Using the Internet, each user can connect to their own virtual desktop, even from mobile devices such as a tablet PC or smartphone. What each user sees on their device is actually an image of one of multiple desktops on a remote server. Being able to access this desktop from any device, anywhere in the world, gives users complete freedom and flexibility to carry out their work.
Better still, DaaS doesn’t require an expensive and excessively powerful machine. Rather than having to purchase new memory or hardware components for each individual’s computer systems, processing power can be scaled as needed. DaaS systems will often mean lower management costs, significantly reduced infrastructure needs, and more effective IT management. DaaS also eliminates many compatibility issues and operating system issues, since everything is happening on what is essentially the same machine with multiple, virtual, simultaneous desktops. In fact, as long as your device has an internet connection, it has the potential to access any operating system and any level of data-processing power.
DaaS Is Cost Effective
Rather than the high cost of setting up traditional workstations, virtual desktops offer the advantage of a lower cost due to the decreased need for processing power and hardware in each workstation. In fact, hardware costs in a DaaS system will often be less than half those of purchasing traditional workstations. Operating them annually is also considerably less expensive. A virtual desktop lasts longer, requires no local hard disk and memory expenditure, and consumes less energy. Operating system upgrades and migrations can be prohibitively expensive due to having to upgrade the server and all desktop and portable computers. DaaS, on the other hand, allows companies to invest less in each upgrade and extend the life of their hardware.
DaaS Is More Secure
Traditional workstations have a basic security disadvantage in that sensitive data needs to be stored in each workstation. This data is distributed among numerous memory devices, meaning it is more vulnerable to hacking, loss, or even natural disasters. Virtual desktops do not require storage of data in multiple hard disks, meaning there is simply no data available to be stolen, lost, or destroyed. One of the most common causes of data loss comes from computer users themselves. A lack of proper computer security understanding can lead to malware infestations which allow viruses and worms to enter an office’s network. With a virtual desktop, this risk is almost nonexistent and, thanks to being able to update and back-up a single location rather than each workstation, maintaining a company’s data security is easier and more effective. DaaS can be an effective backup and disaster recovery aid in itself.
DaaS Allows Greater Mobility and Flexibility
DaaS is one of the best resources for remote workers. Being able to transfer seamlessly from a home computer to a mobile device to an office computer with all the same windows staying open and the same applications running continuously is the greatest advantage of DaaS. Using any device, workers can access their own virtual desktop without having to interrupt their work or carry around data in removable memory drives. For frequent travelers, businesses that require constant mobility, freelancers, and workers from home, DaaS is the best possible solution. DaaS also allows scaling of resources and quick implementation of changes to software and applications while also eliminating compatibility problems.
Of course the very first step to having your organization’s own DaaS is to get your own cloud server. Visit GMO Cloud’s Hosting page and see what essential functions are needed to be taken into consideration in buying a cloud server.
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About the Guest Author:
Nida Rasheed is a freelance writer and owner of an outsourcing company, Nida often finds herself wanting to write about the subjects that are closest to her heart. She lives in Islamabad, Pakistan and can be found on Twitter @nidarasheed.
