On-premise solutions can be difficult and expensive to maintain.
Remember the last time you switched computers? How long did it take you to update and re-install all of those necessary applications like your OS and Microsoft Office? Between hardware, software and time, how costly was it getting your desktop back to how it used to be? Did you run into any problems? Security issues?
Overall, it was probably a pretty frustrating process, more than it should have been.
A virtualized desktop offers a simple, familiar desktop experience that improves security, simplifies management, and removes the stress of current upgrade processes. By virtualizing your desktop, your wallet can also take a break.
How?
Virtualization eliminates the need to acquire or upgrade physical assets, which are classified as capital expenditures (CAPEX). When you virtualize your desktop and access your applications online, you shift those solutions to operational expenses (OPEX). This is much more affordable because you only pay for what you need—what you actually use.
According to the 2016 Spiceworks State of IT report, more than 76% of organizations take advantage of virtualization, and this number is set to reach 85% in 2017. Let’s define what exactly virtualization is and why it’s taking the IT world by storm.
What is virtualization?
Virtualization is when you create a virtual, rather than a physical, version of something. Examples include operating systems, applications or servers that share the resources of the host device.
This process allows a virtualization professional to divide your physical server into several virtual servers that work independently of each other. But at the same time, they’re still part of the same physical system. Each virtual server can now operate independently and perform designated functions, all while operating on a single server.
While virtualization does work in the cloud, don’t mistake it for being the cloud. It’s not. The cloud is made up of data centers that house multiple servers, any one of which can be virtual machines (VM). Your VM may be located on or off-premise, but best practices advise that you backup your data using both options.
So, what benefits does this bring?
Physical servers require expensive power, cooling, and ongoing maintenance while taking up space and only utilizing 10% of the hardware resources for its singular task. By virtualizing your physical server into multiple virtual servers you reduce costs (not buying additional physical units) while increasing efficiency (making use to all the servers resources).
Virtualization also significantly expands your opportunities.
These virtual desktops can even access storage on the same server.
Internally, you can use much cheaper hardware for employees to access their virtual desktops. You might even opt to implement a bring your own device (BYOD) policy, providing each employee with VPN access so they can work from anywhere.
The benefits of virtualization
Amazon WorkSpaces is an excellent example of virtualization in action.
Amazon WorkSpaces (AWS) is a fully managed, secure desktop as a service that runs on the AWS cloud. This allows you to “easily provision cloud-based virtual desktops and provide your users access to the documents, applications, and the resources they need from any supported device, including Windows and Mac computers, Chromebooks, iPads, Fire tablets, Android tablets, and Chrome and Firefox web browsers.”
In addition to convenience, additional advantages of AWS, include:
Simple to use
AWS manages itself with automatic maintenance and patching, allowing you to just enjoy the services. This also allows for easier scalability.
Customization of services
AWS allows you to customize your desktop to your unique business operations by choosing the hardware settings and applications you need. You have the freedom to do as you like with your applications, including the ones that come with your AWS account.
More storage space
What business doesn’t need this?
Security
Not only will AWS constantly backup your data in the AWS Cloud, but it will also compress, encrypt and encode data so that only images are transmitted.
Affordable
With AWSs, you pay either monthly or hourly just for the services you launch. Compared to traditional desktops, this can save you a lot of money.
Flexibility to work from anywhere
This option has been proven to increase employee engagement and productivity.
In conclusion
As you can see, there are many reasons why such a high percentage of business have adopted this IT solution. With all of these benefits, a virtual desktop can drastically increase your company’s productivity.
At RedNight Consulting, let us help you transform your desktop into a virtual one. Contact us today!