Generally speaking, desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) is a cloud computing offering in which virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is outsourced to a third-party.

With DaaS, desktop operating systems run inside virtual machines on servers located in a cloud provider’s data center. This arrangement ensures that all support, including both network resources and storage, are also housed within the cloud.

Just the same as on-site virtual desktop infrastructure, a DaaS provider streams virtual desktops to a person’s devices, where these users can access them through a web browser or software.

Things You Need to Know

Once you understand the finer details of DaaS, you’ll find that it’s not as complicated as it appears.

Here are some things you need to know:

  • Organizations typically purchase DaaS through a subscription model
  • The cloud computing provider is the one that manages back-end responsibilities, including but not limited to upgrades, security, backup, and data storage
  • Customers are responsible for managing their own applications and virtual desktop images

Is DaaS Better than VDI?

The primary benefit of DaaS is that it provides all the advantages of a VDI, including things such as desktop management and remote worker support.

Also, another reason for the growth of DaaS is the potential cost savings. With in-house VDI, companies are forced to spend a lot of money upfront for network infrastructure and storage.

Conversely, with DaaS, you are not asked to pay any money upfront. You only pay for the virtual desktops used each month, thus allowing you to save money early on as well as throughout the engagement.

Tip: compare the total subscription cost over the long run to the initial cost of a VDI. This will give you a better idea of how best to save.

Are You Ready to Get Started?

If you’ve come to the conclusion that DaaS is the right choice, don’t wait to learn more about the top providers in this space.

VMware, Citrix, and Amazon Web Services are among the most well-known desktop-as-a-service providers, with many others well worth considering.

As you learn more about the offerings from these companies, you can decide whether or not DaaS makes sense for your business.