Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is a cloud-based service that provides virtual desktops and applications to end users. The primary benefit of DaaS is that it frees up IT resources so they can focus on other projects.
Users can access their desktops from any device without the need to install software, manage virtual machines, or store data in a data centre .The user just needs to log in with their credentials and start using the application.
With DaaS, you no longer have to deploy, maintain, and update endpoints with new software versions. Instead, you can simply pay for the virtual desktop services—login and usage time—that your company needs at this point in time. There are many benefits of using DaaS:
Reliability & Security
When using desktop virtualization, desktop as a service (DaaS) providers use a hypervisor to host the VDI, which is like a host operating system. It is a virtual machine that hosts the guest operating system. The virtual machine (VM) then connects to the company’s network with a remote desktop protocol (RDP) connection.
With this connection, the DaaS provider can remotely manage the VMs. This means that if one of the VMs goes down, the company can reboot the machine remotely to get it back up and running as soon as possible. Additionally, DaaS providers use multiple layers of security to ensure that only authorized employees are able to access the network.
Remote desktop users are hosted on a virtual network separate from the company’s network. This helps to prevent remote desktop users from accessing critical data and internal networks.
Mobility
Desktop virtualization provides users with the ability to access desktops from any device through a web browser, over the internet. This means that employees can access their desktops from home, while on vacation, or while working remotely.
Users can also take their virtual desktop with them when they travel and log in securely from any internet-connected device. In doing so, employees are able to work with their familiar desktop interface, applications, and data without having to download anything new onto their devices.
Desktop virtualization can also help improve employee mobility by allowing employees to work remotely, saving time associated with travel. For example, a sales representative could log in to their desktop and securely dial into a meeting from any device while on the road. This is especially helpful when employees need to be on the go but still need to be able to access the same information and tools they use in the office.
Scalability
When compared to traditional desktop provisioning, DaaS providers use virtualization to host desktops, which allows for easy scalability. An organization can increase the number of virtual machines to meet the demand for extra capacity during busy times. This can be beneficial for seasonal fluctuations in workloads or for special events.
Organizations can also decrease the number of virtual machines when there is less demand for resources. Additionally, organizations can add and remove user accounts from the virtual machines as needed. This means that employees who leave the company can be removed from the virtual machines with just a few clicks.
Similarly, new employees can be added by importing their account into the virtual machines. DaaS providers can also scale the storage up or down to meet the needs of the organization.
User Adoption
Desktop virtualization can help increase user adoption since users can simply log in to their virtual desktop and begin working with minimal to no training. This is especially true when using a simple user interface (UI) like a web browser.
In addition, organizations can select which applications to include in the virtual desktop to meet their specific needs. This means that employees can use the applications they need and ignore the ones they don’t.
Furthermore, DaaS providers usually have a user self-service portal where employees can use a self-help option to request additional virtual machines and applications. This can help streamline the management process and increase user adoption.
DaaS Providers
There are a number of desktop as a service (DaaS) providers on the market, each with their own unique set of services and pricing options. DaaS providers can be broken down into two different categories: Software as a Service (SaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
SaaS providers are primarily concerned with the management of the software itself, while IaaS providers manage the infrastructure, including servers and networks, necessary to run the software.
SaaS providers also offer IaaS solutions, whereas IaaS providers can also offer SaaS. When selecting a DaaS provider, organizations should look for a service that meets their specific needs. This includes factors like pricing, the types of applications offered, the length of the contract, data security, and customer support.
Limitations of DaaS
Organizations need to consider the limitations of DaaS before signing a contract. Some of the limitations of DaaS include the following:
- – Complete control over the environment is not available
- – Organizations should be aware that DaaS providers will likely have access to the virtual machines and therefore have some control over the environment. This means that it could be more difficult to troubleshoot problems and make changes to the system.
– Moving to a new provider is difficult – This is because there is a high likelihood of data loss when moving to a new provider. – Data is usually stored remotely
– This means that organizations should be aware that their data is being stored outside of their control, which could be a concern for organizations with strict data privacy and security policies.
Extended Conclusion
Desktop as a service, or DaaS, is a type of managed service in which providers host virtual desktops and provide them to customers via the internet. The customer may use any device to access the desktop, including a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet.
DaaS providers usually provide the desktop OS, applications, and all of the related software and hardware. The customer may also have the option to use their own devices and operating systems. If your company is looking to cut costs and focus on core competencies, DaaS is a great option.
With DaaS, you can focus on the big picture while letting the service provider take care of the day-to-day management of the desktops. In return, you can have more time to focus on strategic initiatives without having to worry about maintaining and updating endpoints.