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efore the days of cloud computing, virtual desktops were deployed by running VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) pods, which users would connect to and share the pod’s resources to run the operating system and business applications. This method often resulted in a poor user experience due to the performance impact of sharing resources and a costly endeavour for companies to update the pod’s architecture as applications became more resource intensive. The move to cloud computing has vastly improved the VDI experience for users and businesses alike, as there is no need for expensive, outdated, on-premises hardware.
Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is deployed through Azure and allows users to access Windows 10 and 11 desktop and apps from anywhere, on any device. Regardless of the size of a business, AVD has many benefits and provides a comprehensive solution, especially for businesses that have implemented a hybrid workplace model. This article will discuss 5 key benefits of moving workloads to the cloud with Azure Virtual Desktop.
Flexibility and Mobility
One of the key benefits of AVD is that it allows users to access everything they need to work from anywhere on any device. This opens the possibility of companies implementing Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) programs as employees can use a Windows, Mac, iOS or Android device and still have the same experience as if they were using a company issued Windows PC. This is especially beneficial when considering a hybrid work model; employees can work from anywhere without losing productivity or computing power.
5 Key Benefits of Microsoft Azure
Increased Security
AVD has built-in security features that keep data safe, no matter where an employee works. As AVD is hosted on Azure, all employee and company data is stored in the cloud instead of the local desktop. Multifactor authentication is easy to deploy within Azure to add an extra layer of security and prevent a cyberattack. Defender ATP also provides in-depth threat and vulnerability management to ensure the virtual desktop stays secure and identifies threats before they become problematic.
5 Key Benefits of Microsoft Azure
Reduce Costs
It can be difficult for businesses to manage IT hardware, as all devices need to be constantly updated and there must be more devices than employees in case a device fails. This results in most companies having multiple devices not in use that still need to be replaced when the technology becomes outdated. With AVD, the device cost can be much lower as each device does not need to have high specifications, as long as it can run HTML, it will be an effective work device. A BYOD programme can further reduce hardware costs, as employees can use their own devices. AVD also reduces costs as there are no additional license costs as it is included in your existing Microsoft 365 license.
5 Key Benefits of Microsoft Azure
Centralised Management
Virtual Desktops can be managed from a single point, making it significantly easier for IT administrators to patch and update all machines simultaneously. This is an added benefit for hybrid working as devices can be updated and fixed without needing to be physically with the device. The benefit of centralised management extended to disaster recovery, too, as all data is stored on the cloud, so if something does go wrong, the IT administrator can restore to a clean desktop image to ensure business continuity.
5 Key Benefits of Microsoft Azure
Easy to Scale
Business needs change over time in relation to the number of devices in use and the computing power needed per device. If a company were to hire multiple temporary workers during a busy period, this would typically result in the business buying a new device and license for each employee. AVD makes this process simple, as new virtual machines can be deployed within minutes without investing in new hardware. Session hosts can also be scaled automatically to balance loads to give a better user experience for those using more computing power whilst optimising their session host VM costs.
Virtual desktop technology has evolved rapidly and the modern AVD is worlds apart from the original VDI pods of a decade ago. AVD is now an integral part of many large and small businesses, as it reduces expenses, provides flexibility, and simplifies management.
