With the advent of the internet, computing has advanced dramatically. Through the Internet of connected devices, computers that worked independently with limited resources are now able to connect with computers around the world. As a result, information is much more widely available and long-distance communication is easier, fostering globalization, trade, and international business.
Desktop as a Service (DaaS) is a merger of internet and computing technology to provide multiple people with access to data and services from a centralized source. DaaS connects devices of multiple users to one central computing infrastructure so that all users can have access to the same software and information. It acts as a powerful virtual computer that works on users’ devices. This is also referred to as cloud computing since a central computer and database communicate with multiple other devices over the internet, which is the basis of cloud technology.
DaaS systems provide a wide range of benefits, from flexibility and convenience to security and speed. However, there are also security and latency concerns in these systems, which we will discuss later. This article describes how the Desktop as a Service system works, its benefits, and its potential risks.
How does it Work?
DaaS has become increasingly vital for large organizations as globalization and remote working rise. In order to truly benefit from it, you must understand its concept. DaaS uses the internet to store and distribute company data and software on web servers. As per regulations, DaaS provides the central software and data to each user in the organization. Additionally, the cloud system is managed by a third-party service provider, while the IT administrator ensures that the system is properly implemented in the company. Once established, you can use the service at any location and any device just by logging into the DaaS from a web browser or a secure application. Let’s go over how the system works:
- The desktop structure used by your company is uploaded into the cloud. In other words, the computer system required by your company is uploaded as information into a web server device. This forms a virtual computer. A third-party service provider ensures safe uploading and maintenance of your virtual computer system on the cloud.
- The IT administrator from the company is given access to this cloud computing infrastructure, where the required software and data files are put in place as per the company’s needs.
- User devices in the company are connected to the cloud. Also, permissions for each user are set as per their specific needs.
- Login details are set, and the virtual system becomes available to the users immediately on logging in.
- Users can work using the virtual computer with access to the same database and software up to the permitted extent.
- Various devices can then access and use the cloud resources over the internet no matter where it is located.
The Benefits of using Desktop as a Service
Desktop as a Service makes remote working possible and helps in global access to common resources from almost any internet-enabled device. All that’s needed is an internet connection and a working device with a web browser. It is also cost-effective, convenient, easy to upgrade, and can be maintained easily. Moreover, DaaS system technology has been observed to be effective in recent times due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The benefits of Desktop as a Service system are now explained in more detail:
1. Flexibility of location and device
Since the pandemic, being able to work remotely from home has become necessary. It has, however, also proved profitable for many companies due to lower overhead and longer working hours. Working from remote locations has been on the rise in general due to the flexibility it offers working professionals and the ability to continue working even while on official trips. A major factor enabling this has been DaaS due to the ubiquity it offers. You can work for your company using a computer from anywhere in the world using DaaS technology.
Further, it has also enabled the use of the company resources from various devices such as smartphones, laptops, desktop computers, and tablet devices. This means you can keep working while on the go or even if you have a limited choice of devices.
2. It is cost-effective
Not only does DaaS help to cut office costs, but it also reduces the costs that have been traditionally involved in setting up devices for multiple users. With all your data and software on a cloud, you do not need to install software on each device or have multiple databases. It also cuts repair costs. One expense on a DaaS system is all you need, which will generally end up being cheaper than the traditional expenses.
3. Convenience and productivity
Working on multiple software on the same device and storing all information on it will surely push it to its limits. So why not use a DaaS instead? It will maintain all your software and information in powerful web servers, and you just need your login ID and password to get going at high speeds and with huge storage capacity. The resulting speed and convenience will certainly bring up work efficiency. Further, it will provide a smooth, inter-connected interface to all devices to enhance cooperation and communication. Used right, DaaS is sure to boost your company’s productivity.
4. Data security
Why is securing one platform easier than securing multiple devices? As data is permanently stored only in the cloud, protecting the cloud infrastructure effectively will help keep your company’s data safe. As long as the server is secure, you don’t have to protect all the systems with separate firewalls and anti-viruses.
Further, you can ensure that each user gets access only to the information that the user needs from the cloud. Thus, it reduces the chances of leakage of data by unauthorized users, be it deliberately or accidentally.
5. Data recovery
What’s more? Lost data can be recovered easily from the cloud. So, any system crashes or damages at your office will not affect your crucial data. You can also switch to other devices if one or some crash. This will maintain continuity of work and avoid losses caused by breakdown gaps. This is crucial for big organizations that process large volumes of data.
6. Change of location
Changing the location of a big office may not be needed frequently. But if it is, it’s an extremely tedious task to shift devices and information to a new location safely. This is also made simple with the use of a DaaS. Shifting information or computers can be done safely as the critical information will be safe in the cloud. This reduces the risks of theft or loss of information even during drastic changes.
7. Easy maintenance and development
Maintaining a virtual system is way easier than maintaining physical databases or large computers in your office. Also, it is easier to upgrade software and make additions to a cloud system than making changes in each employee’s device. Therefore, DaaS is the perfect solution if you are looking for low-cost maintenance and convenient up-gradation.
The Risks Involved with the use of Desktop as a Service
The Desktop as a Service system’s benefits are indeed impressive and seem to solve most of the problems that enterprises face. But there’s a downside to almost every great thing, and the DaaS is no exception. There are various risks in a DaaS system, such as data security breach, breakdown of cloud providers system, and latency due to slow internet speeds. Moreover, the company cannot change the internet infrastructure or service provider frequently, and hence, you must make the right choices right at the start. The risks involved with the use of Desktop as a Service and possible solutions are explained in detail below-
1. It’s all about trust.
Can you trust the cloud service provider with all your data and organizational structure knowledge? Things could go terribly wrong if the provider breaks your trust and silently misuses or damages your company’s data.
To avoid this, you need to be very careful while selecting the service provider and ensure they are trustworthy with an impeccable reputation. Don’t just consider the costs as data security is crucial.
2. Increase in Bandwidth and Internet charges
Your internet may get slowed down for other purposes as DaaS systems would require significant internet resources. It could also send up your internet charges which could be high in some cases.
Make sure to plan out the viability of such a system for your organization to avoid such problems. For example, a cloud system may be financially infeasible in some cases, such as small businesses.
3. Latency can slow you down.
Latency or delay in system response can be a serious problem, especially if your internet network is slow or overloaded. You may end up working slow due to latency in a DaaS system. This is especially harmful to large companies.
To avoid latency, you must go for fast connections and ensure that you have a good network infrastructure both inside and outside your organization.
4. Potential flaws in data security
Apart from intentional data misuse, cloud service providers may fail to provide sufficient safety to your data. This would leave your company and client’s information vulnerable to hackers. Such data leakage can have implications on your image as a brand and lead to legal issues. Moreover, the systems of the provider may be unreliable.
To get around such risks, you must make sure that the DaaS provider is competent and experienced and has sufficient security systems in place to protect your data.
Conclusion
With globalization and business growth, Desktop as a Service is becoming increasingly important. This is because it provides various benefits like the flexibility of location and device, convenience, easy data recovery, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, DaaS offers the unique benefit of providing users with customized access based on their specific needs and providing them with the high speed and storage that a central computer can provide, even if the device itself isn’t fast enough.
Therefore, it may be inferred that DaaS technology can give a major boost to your company’s productivity, efficiency and profits. Further, DaaS systems are becoming a necessity in the present times due to the pandemic, and many organizations are now working effectively with DaaS systems.
However, there are also potential risks such as misuse of data, unreliability, and latency. To summarize, you should opt for a DaaS for its obvious benefits, but also make sure that you can find a reliable provider, afford the associated costs, and really need it.