Benefits of
hosted desktops
- Secure remote access for your workers = peace of mind for you
- Bring your own device (BYOD) security guarantee - save £££'s on workstations
- Free up IT resources for revenue-generating projects - let us sweat the small stuff
- Productive workforces - work anywhere, anytime on any device
- Centralised monitoring and provisioning of desktops
- Supported by fully certified engineers
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.
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Public cloud (Azure)
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Entry-level solution
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Standard-definition experience
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Windows 11
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Limited on-premise app hosting
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Limited SaaS app protection
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Standard desktop experience
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Domain joined devices only
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Full or part managed service
Citrix
DaaS
Take AVD to the next level with Citrix.
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Public cloud (Azure)
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Future-proof solution
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High-definition experience (HDX)
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Windows 11, Linux
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Advanced on-premise app hosting
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Advanced SaaS app protection
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Citrix Workspace experience
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Non-domain joined device support
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Full or part managed service
Private Cloud
Hosted Desktop
For ultimate compliance & legacy app hosting
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Private cloud (Atlas)
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Max. compliance
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High-definition experience (HDX)
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Windows 11 skin
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Great for legacy app hosting
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Advanced SaaS app protection
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Citrix Workspace compatible
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Non-domain joined device support
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Fully managed service
FAQs: Hosted Desktops
Can I run any application?
As long as it’s Windows compatible, we haven’t found software we can’t run.
Can I use my existing processes?
Yes, our support team can assess your current operation and integrate.
How fast is a hosted desktop?
You’ll notice improved speeds, even using a 1mb/s internet connection.
Can I use my current printer?
Yes, if you print locally you’ll need no configuration. We can assist hosted printed.
Where is my data stored?
Your data will be stored on one of our ISO 27001:2013 certified UK data centres.
How secure are your servers?
ISO 27001 certification includes all legal, physical and technical controls involved from a risk management perspective.
What support can I get?
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.
Do I need new hardware?
Our hosted solutions do not require new or high grade hardware, simply use your existing technology.
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