What is Desktop as a Service?

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is a cloud computing solution in which a provider supplies virtual desktops to users via the Internet, licensed through a per-user subscription. This offering is particularly beneficial for small businesses that consider setting up their own virtual desktop infrastructure too costly or resource-intensive. Providers manage backend operations such as maintenance, backups, updates, and data storage. Additionally, they may offer security services and manage desktop applications, or users can opt to handle these aspects independently.

In Desktop as a Service (DaaS), two types of desktops are available—persistent and non-persistent.

Persistent Desktops allow users to customize and save their desktop environment, ensuring it remains consistent each time they log on. This customization requires more storage space compared to non-persistent desktops, which can increase costs.

Non-persistent Desktops, on the other hand, reset to a standard state each time the user logs out, serving primarily as a gateway to shared cloud services.

Cloud providers often offer both options, allowing organizations to cater to the specific needs of their workforce. This setup enables regular employees to access persistent desktops while providing temporary or occasional workers with non-persistent desktops.

Advantages of DaaS

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) offers several advantages over traditional desktop models. Deploying or removing active end users with DaaS is notably faster and more cost-effective.

Faster deployment and decommissioning of active end users: Because the desktops are pre-configured, connecting them to new devices is straightforward. This capability is particularly beneficial for seasonal businesses that experience fluctuations in demand or staffing, potentially saving significant time and costs.

Reduced downtime for IT support: DaaS enables companies to provide efficient remote IT support to employees, minimizing operational disruptions.

Cost savings: DaaS devices require less computing power than traditional desktop machines or laptops, resulting in cost savings and reduced energy consumption.

Increased device flexibility: DaaS supports a variety of operating systems and device types, accommodating the trend of employees using their own devices in the workplace and shifting desktop support responsibilities to the cloud service provider.

Enhanced security: With data stored in centralized data centers, DaaS reduces security risks. In case of theft of a laptop or mobile device, disconnecting it from the service prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data since none of the data resides on the stolen device. Security updates and patches are also easier to implement in a DaaS environment, as all desktops can be updated simultaneously from a remote location.

Disadvantages of DaaS

While Desktop as a Service (DaaS) presents several benefits, it may not suit every business case. Here are some disadvantages of DaaS that may prompt organizations to prefer on-premises workstations:

Dependency on high-speed internet: DaaS requires reliable internet access. Employees in remote areas without robust internet coverage may find DaaS impractical.

Potential long-term costs: Although DaaS reduces upfront capital expenditures compared to VDI, recurring monthly subscription costs could accumulate to surpass the initial investment of VDI over time.

Learning curve: Employees need training to access virtual desktops via web browsers or specialized applications, which could hinder widespread adoption.

Difficulty in estimating requirements: Organizations may struggle to accurately gauge the memory and computing power needed for virtual desktops provided by different DaaS platforms.

Software licensing risks: Existing software licenses for on-premises applications may not always apply to virtual desktop environments, potentially leading to additional expenses.

Limited customization options: DaaS typically offers fewer customization capabilities compared to internally developed VDI solutions tailored to specific organizational needs.

How does DaaS work?

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) involves the cloud services provider hosting infrastructure, network resources, and storage in the cloud, delivering a virtual desktop to the user’s device. Users can access the desktop’s data and applications through a web browser or other software. Organizations can acquire multiple virtual desktops through a subscription model.

Traditionally, graphics-intensive applications posed challenges for DaaS due to their reliance on streaming over the Internet from centralized servers. Recent advancements have overcome this limitation, enabling even demanding applications like computer-aided design (CAD) to run smoothly on DaaS. When server workloads peak, IT administrators can swiftly migrate running virtual machines between physical servers, ensuring uninterrupted performance for graphics and GPU-accelerated applications. This advancement, known as GPU-accelerated Desktop as a Service (GPU-DaaS), holds significant implications for industries such as engineering, broadcasting, and architecture, enhancing capabilities in 3D modeling, high-end graphics, simulations, and video production.

Difference between VDI and DaaS

A virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) enables organizations to centrally host desktop operating systems on endpoint devices from a single server located in a data center. All data resides on the data center server, and endpoints serve as a means for users to access this data via the Internet. Implementing VDI requires significant investments in network, storage, and computing infrastructure within the data center, along with skilled IT teams capable of managing and configuring virtual infrastructures.

In contrast, the Desktop as a Service (DaaS) model shifts the burden of infrastructure setup and management costs to cloud service providers, potentially offering a more cost-effective solution than establishing an in-house virtual desktop infrastructure, depending on the number of users and subscription costs.

For organizations with a large user base, both VDI and DaaS can result in cost savings since endpoint devices require minimal computing power, with most processing occurring in the data center. However, supporting a large user base necessitates a substantial IT team capable of addressing any operational issues. DaaS allows companies to operate with a leaner IT staff as the DaaS provider manages deployment, connectivity issues, and user support.

Nevertheless, VDI provides businesses with greater control over desktop offerings and security compared to DaaS. Companies with specific or stringent security and application requirements may find it challenging to identify a DaaS provider that can meet all their needs in a cost-effective manner.

Why is Daas Important?

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) offers several advantages, including streamlined management, enhanced flexibility, and reduced total cost of ownership compared to traditional models. Businesses seeking to enable remote work options and accommodate personal device preferences can leverage DaaS to swiftly establish a digital workspace. Users can log into their virtual desktops from various devices and locations, experiencing consistent desktop environments regardless of where they last accessed it. All that’s required is an internet connection. Centralized storage ensures continuous data backup, eliminating the need for users to manage backups independently or concern themselves with data discrepancies between office and remote locations.

Desktop-as-a-Service use cases

There are numerous compelling reasons to adopt DaaS. Here are some common use cases:

• Enable BYOD initiatives: DaaS allows employees to access critical applications and data from any device, regardless of its operating system.
• Provide mobility: Facilitate anytime, anywhere work capabilities, empowering employees to maintain productivity and engage in personalized customer interactions.
• Ensure compliance with security regulations: DaaS solutions from reputable providers offer robust cybersecurity measures such as patching, encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
• Ensure business continuity: In the event of workplace disruption or disaster, DaaS enables employees to work securely from any location, backed by consistent backups, data replication, fail-over capabilities, and disaster recovery options.
• Optimize call center resources: Virtual desktops provide cost-effective access to necessary applications and data, enabling agents to work remotely and reducing the overhead costs associated with office space.
• Meet seasonal or temporary demand: DaaS scalability makes it ideal for organizations experiencing fluctuating infrastructure needs, efficiently adjusting resources as demand varies.
• Facilitate Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Simplify the onboarding process for employees across diverse devices and locations during complex organizational changes.
• Support graphics-intensive applications: DaaS provides a cost-effective solution for delivering high-end graphics software and tools across various operating systems, dynamically allocating resources as needed.
• Secure access for partners and contractors: Instead of issuing dedicated physical devices, organizations can grant secure access to data and applications via virtual desktops, enhancing flexibility and security.
• Reduce carbon footprint: By leveraging DaaS and BYOD, organizations can minimize hardware expenditures, leading to reduced power consumption, less cooling requirements, and decreased electronic waste.
• Unlimited storage potential: DaaS utilizes cloud-based storage, offering scalable storage capabilities that can expand infinitely to meet organizational needs, unlike on-premises data centers with fixed capacity limits.

FAQ’s

What is Desktop as a Service (DaaS)?

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is a cloud computing solution where a provider delivers virtual desktops to users over the Internet, licensed through a per-user subscription. This allows organizations to access their desktop environments from various devices via a web browser or specialized applications.

How does DaaS benefit small businesses?

DaaS eliminates the need for small businesses to invest heavily in building and maintaining their own virtual desktop infrastructure. It offers cost-effective access to enterprise-level IT resources, including maintenance, updates, and security, which are managed by the DaaS provider.

What are the types of desktops available in DaaS?

DaaS offers two main types of desktops: persistent and non-persistent. Persistent desktops allow users to customize and save their desktop settings between sessions, while non-persistent desktops reset to a default state after each session, suitable for shared or temporary use.

How does DaaS handle high-speed internet dependency?

DaaS requires reliable internet access for users to connect to their virtual desktops. While it’s accessible in most areas with internet coverage, remote locations with limited connectivity might face challenges using DaaS effectively.

What are the cost considerations with DaaS?

While DaaS reduces upfront capital expenditures compared to traditional desktop setups like VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure), ongoing subscription costs can accumulate over time. Organizations should weigh these costs against potential savings in IT management and infrastructure maintenance.

How does DaaS support graphics-intensive applications?

Recent advancements in DaaS technology, such as GPU-accelerated DaaS, have made it feasible to run graphics-intensive applications like CAD software smoothly over the internet. This capability is crucial for industries requiring high-end graphics performance, such as engineering and design.

What are the security advantages of DaaS?

DaaS enhances security by centralizing data storage in secure data centers. This reduces risks associated with data loss from stolen or compromised devices, as sensitive data remains safely stored and backed up in the cloud. DaaS providers also manage security updates and patches centrally, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.

Can DaaS be customized to meet specific organizational needs?

While DaaS offers flexibility in device compatibility and access, customization options may be limited compared to on-premises solutions like VDI. Organizations with highly specialized or stringent IT requirements may need to evaluate whether DaaS can adequately meet their customization needs.

How does DaaS support business continuity and disaster recovery?

DaaS enables seamless continuity of operations during disruptions by allowing employees to access their virtual desktops securely from any location. Providers offer features like data replication, fail-over capabilities, and disaster recovery plans to ensure minimal downtime and data loss in critical situations.

What industries benefit most from adopting DaaS?

Industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and retail benefit significantly from DaaS due to its ability to provide secure access to data and applications across various devices, support remote work scenarios, and ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations.

Conclusion

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) offers businesses a flexible, cost-effective, and secure alternative to traditional desktop setups. By outsourcing desktop management to cloud providers, organizations can reduce upfront costs, streamline operations, and adapt more easily to changing demands. DaaS supports remote work, enhances data security, and accommodates diverse device environments through BYOD initiatives. While not ideal for every scenario, its benefits in mobility, compliance, and disaster recovery make it a valuable choice across various industries. DaaS continues to evolve, empowering businesses with the resilience and agility needed in today’s digital landscape.