Comparing DaaS Desktop as a Service vs Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
Let’s get to know about DaaS and VDI. Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) is a type of virtual desktop that has been set up to be hosted in the cloud. With the DaaS system, organizations will be able to quickly and efficiently launch virtual desktops and applications as a cloud service to virtually any device no matter where it may be. The DaaS system has a significant advantage over PCs or VDIs (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) because DaaS delivers users with a complete virtual desktop accessible in the cloud.
What is DaaS Desktop
Unlike their PCs or VDI counterparts, DaaS does not require a large upfront investment and it is not complex to manage. In fact, organizations will be able to derive all the benefits of a local VDI without having to endure the hassle and minimizing the capital expenditure. Among the benefits that organizations attain include having a centralized desktop control and data security management system, and most importantly a disaster recovery option and backup function, which is essential for every business to minimize the loss of valuable data.
DaaS also provides the option of utilizing a cloud-based provider on a subscription basis, so there is no need for the extra expense and cost forked out for equipment. Storing data in the cloud instead of on a physical device has a major advantage in terms of compliance. For example, if an employee were to carry around a physical device and lose it, the data would still remain safe using the controls which are in place with DaaS. Another example would be if an employee were to leave the organization, the cloud account would simply just be disabled.
DaaS system providers would be able to assist organizations with storing all their valuable data, handle the storage, manage the upgrades, and secure the data by backing it up and manage other supported applications as well.
What is VDI Desktop
Better known by its VDI acronym, the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure is the process of running a user desktop inside a virtual machine. That machine would live on a server that is based in the datacentre. What makes VDI a powerful form of desktop virtualization is because it enables the user to fully personalized the desktops, and this can be done for each individual user while still maintaining the security and simplicity of the centralized management.
By locally using the client’s own hardware stack, a VDI can be accessed and maintained by an on-site administrator. There is also the option of deploying VDI through a service provider.
Pros of Using DaaS and VDI
Admittedly, both DaaS desktop and VDI sound like they operate the same way and have similar functions. However, both do have distinct pros and cons to them.
DaaS pros include:
- Reduces the need for on-site technology infrastructure.
- A third-party vendor manages hardware, software, upgrades, data and more.
- IT resources can be reallocated towards managing virtual desktops, clients and applications.
- Greater flexibility and mobility, and generally easy to use experience for all virtual desktop users and administrators.
VDI pros include:
- VDI’s are the ideal solution for highly sensitive computing environments.
- Full control over software, hardware and data are 100% on-site.
- The technology is more solid in comparison to DaaS.
- Software licensing for VDI is more mature.
- Offers customization (which is something that pre-packaged DaaS solutions struggle to deliver occasionally).
- Administrators are responsible for the management of VDI implementations.
Cons of Using DaaS Desktop and VDI
DaaS cons include:
- Organizations could be reluctant to outsource their computing to a third-party vendor due to potential trust issues.
- Fast and reliable internet connection is crucial.
- There are still not cost-effective solutions from software vendors in regards to their software licensing issues.
- There must be considerations to ensure that the data secure as possible before handing over to the DaaS vendor.
- An occurrence of a service outage could potentially affect the user’s ability to access their virtual desktops.
VDI cons include:
- Proper licensing software can prove to be costly, depending on the needs of the organization.
- The constant need to monitor infrastructure with extra care.
- To maintain and avoid a breach of data, you need to implement localized threat detection solutions.
- Upgrades must be in-house, which may sometimes require a significant investment in resources.
