Amazon WorkSpaces from AWS and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) both provide users with a remote desktop experience—however, they have completely different approaches.
As businesses shift towards digital workspaces, understanding these differences is vital. This guide will provide insights to help you make an informed decision about which is right for your business.
What is VDI?
VDI is a virtualization technology that enables desktop operating systems to be run on servers in a data center. This means that all computing resources, including processing power, storage, and memory, are located in one physical place.
The user’s device acts as an interface to connect to the virtual desktop through a remote display protocol. This virtual desktop functions like a regular desktop, allowing users to access their applications, files, and data, just as they would on a physical machine.
Although VDI has been around for decades, it requires significant investments in hardware, software, and IT resources.
What is Amazon WorkSpace?
WorkSpace is a fully managed, cloud-based Desktop as a Service solution (DaaS) offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It provides users with a centrally hosted desktop environment through either Windows or Linux that can be accessed from any device, anywhere with an internet connection, and offers high-quality streaming that is safe and secure.
WorkSpace provides pay-as-you-go and bundle options, making it a cost-efficient solution for businesses of all sizes. Scale up or down based on your needs and use your own Windows Desktop license to save costs. WorkSpaces even handles tasks like patch management, saving your business the resources you’d otherwise invest in an IT team.
AWS also does a great job of making sure WorkSpaces is adaptable for a variety of use cases, including remote work, temporary employees, contractors, and even BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies.
Amazon Workspace vs Traditional VDI
Both options offer unique advantages, but choosing the right solution for your business depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Let’s break down the key differences.
Security and Compliance
Both Amazon WorkSpaces and traditional VDI solutions offer security measures, but WorkSpaces has the added advantage of being hosted on AWS’s secure cloud infrastructure. This means that all data is encrypted, and Amazon regularly conducts security audits to ensure compliance with various industry standards like HIPAA and PCI.
Scalability and Flexibility
One of the main benefits of using a cloud-based solution like Amazon WorkSpace is scalability. With traditional VDI, businesses have to invest in additional hardware and infrastructure to accommodate growth. But with AWS, resources can be easily scaled up or down based on demand, allowing businesses to save costs and only pay for what they use.
User Experience
With traditional VDI, the user’s device must have a high-speed connection to access the virtual desktop. This can be an issue for users in remote locations or areas with poor internet connectivity. Amazon Web Services, on the other hand, offers a smooth and seamless experience regardless of device or location.
Which is Better for Your Business?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It ultimately depends on the specific needs and goals of your business. If your business needs complete control over the infrastructure, traditional VDI may be a better fit.
However, Amazon WorkSpaces stands out for its exceptional features. By choosing AWS, you can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and create a secure workspace for your employees.
Upgrade Your Business With RedNight Consulting
RedNight Consulting is an AWS Partner, and our team of experts can help you implement Amazon WorkSpaces efficiently and effectively. Whether it’s migrating from traditional VDI or setting up a new cloud-based solution, we have the expertise to make the transition smooth and seamless.
Don’t let outdated technology hold your business back. Contact RedNight Consulting today to learn more about how WorkSpaces can take your business to the next level.