Virtual Desktops

Complete remote access solutions that enable secure work, regardless of device and location.

Interested in industry-specific solutions? Read more about our IT services for recruitment agencies or law firms.

Benefits of
hosted desktops

What are hosted desktops?

Hosted Desktops (also known as Desktop as a Service or DaaS) provide your users with a familiar Microsoft Windows environment on a virtual desktop where they can easily and securely access all of their email, files, applications (including 3D visualisation software) and storage.

It is underpinned by Citrix DaaS technology, in the same way our hosted application service does.

Accessible on any PC, Mac, laptop, tablet or phone; hosted desktops really do allow you take your office with you everywhere. Ideal for modern workplaces where flexible working is the future. As long as you have a Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G connection you’re good to go!

With a remote helpdesk service on hand to take care of everything, it’s a resource-light solution.

From a user experience point of view, there is no difference between a local desktop or a hosted desktop. The only difference is that data is stored and accessed via the hosted environment. This means even the oldest device will benefit from fast cloud-based processing power. Hosted Desktops are suitable for companies of any size and they also come with automatic backing up so in the event of an outage you’ll lose no work and can pick up exactly where you left off.

Why choose hosted desktops?

Using enterprise-grade servers in our ISO accredited data centres, a virtual hosted desktop service allows users to access everything they need within one familiar environment.

They allow users to access all data, email and applications via any device via one login – no more VPN’s needed to access certain applications. Users will require no training on how to use them as everything is packaged up in a Windows desktop that they’ve always used.

Hosted Desktops are a proven way to improve productivity with users able to resume their session exactly where they left off and also disconnect/shut down in seconds too (perfect for a busy on-the-go work day). Say goodbye to the days of only being able to check work emails at home – now users can take their office with them wherever they are!

They are also a really secure way of working with multi-factor authentications, security patches applied to all users at once – removing the reliance on individual users to perform updates and they can be remotely wiped or locked in the event of a lost device. No data is stored locally on any device accessing a hosted desktop making them much more resilient against cyber-attacks than traditional desktops.

Our hosted desktop solutions

Solutions include Azure Virtual Desktops (AVD) and Citrix DaaS, as well as our private cloud hosted desktops (DaaS). 

Naturally, there are use cases for each, and we’ve provided a brief comparison below. Alternatively, you can read all about public cloud-based DaaS solutions.

If you already have Microsoft 365 licences, Azure Virtual Desktops will work out more cost-effective.

Azure
Virtual Desktop

Better utilise Microsoft 365 licenses with AVD.
  • Public cloud (Azure)
  • Entry-level solution
  • Standard-definition experience
  • Windows 11
  • Limited on-premise app hosting
  • Limited SaaS app protection
  • Standard desktop experience
  • Domain joined devices only
  • Full or part managed service

Citrix
DaaS

Take AVD to the next level with Citrix.
  • Public cloud (Azure)
  • Future-proof solution
  • High-definition experience (HDX)
  • Windows 11, Linux
  • Advanced on-premise app hosting
  • Advanced SaaS app protection
  • Citrix Workspace experience
  • Non-domain joined device support
  • Full or part managed service

Private Cloud
Hosted Desktop

For ultimate compliance & legacy app hosting
  • Private cloud (Atlas)
  • Max. compliance
  • High-definition experience (HDX)
  • Windows 11 skin
  • Great for legacy app hosting
  • Advanced SaaS app protection
  • Citrix Workspace compatible
  • Non-domain joined device support
  • Fully managed service

FAQs: Hosted Desktops

As long as it’s Windows compatible, we haven’t found software we can’t run.

Yes, our support team can assess your current operation and integrate.

You’ll notice improved speeds, even using a 1mb/s internet connection.

Yes, if you print locally you’ll need no configuration. We can assist hosted printed.

Your data will be stored on one of our ISO 27001:2013 certified UK data centres.

ISO 27001 certification includes all legal, physical and technical controls involved from a risk management perspective.

Atlas Cloud offers comprehensive support from the very first phone-call. We’ll work with you and provide your users with everything they need to get started. Our support team is available 7am – 6pm Mon – Fri and is comprised of engineers, not call handlers, so they’re able to resolve any issues fast.

Our hosted solutions do not require new or high grade hardware, simply use your existing technology.

TRUST THE V.D.I. EXPERTS

Microsoft Solutions Partner – Atlas Cloud
White Atlas Cloud writing with a 15 degree split between the two words

WHY CHOOSE us?

Not just secure, reassuringly secure.

There are two types of IT service provider.

One will do everything possible to secure the technology they’re responsible for. The other will do everything possible to keep their customers’ cyber security risks low.

Atlas Cloud is the second type of provider.

Why does that matter? Read more about us or review our case studies.

Trusted in high-compliance industries

contact us

Make security one less thing to worry about.

Get in touch to schedule a free consultation about assuring your IT provision.

Atlas Cloud Logo

get started

The more information you can provide, the better prepared we can be for your first call with us.

Your data is safe with us and will be used solely for the purpose of this enquiry. See our privacy policy for more.

New Research

Our recent, nationwide research shows what can be learnt from working during lockdown. Download the report today.

Sign up to newsletter?*
Privacy Notice: We won’t sign you up to any marketing mailing lists (unless you ask us to*) but we may email you to make sure you have been able to access the content successfully. View our privacy policy.