Cloud desktops are cloud computing solutions that allows organizations and their members to access desktops, files and business apps over the cloud. This means you can work on any device from any location, given you have internet connectivity. There are certain key terms and features that come with a desktop as a service solution described below:

Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) – a virtualization technique enabling access to a virtualized desktop, which is hosted on a remote service over the Internet. This service is typically built, managed, and maintained by the client. VDI encompasses software, hardware and other resources required for the virtualization of a desktop environment.

Desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) – is a form of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) in which the VDI is outsourced and handled by a third party. Also called hosted desktop services, desktop-as-a-service is frequently delivered as a cloud service along with the apps needed for use on the virtual desktop.

Published applications – Published applications are virtual software programs that function as if they were installed locally. Users can access and launch published applications in the same way they do with native applications. IT can deliver published applications to users’ Windows and Linux desktops as well as their mobile devices.

Persistent Desktop – a virtual desktop that can save data and user settings on the operating system. As with older physical desktops with persistent hard drive images, persistent virtual desktops allow users to store their own settings, files and shortcuts on the desktop.

Central processing unit (CPU) – also called a central processor or the main processor is the electronic circuitry within a computer that executes instructions that make up a computer program.

Random access memory (RAM) – A type of data storage used in computers that are generally located on the motherboard. This type of memory is volatile and all information that was stored in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off.

Storage Area Network (SAN) – A specialized, high-speed network that provides block-level network access to storage. SANs are typically composed of hosts, switches, storage elements, and storage devices that are interconnected using a variety of technologies, topologies, and protocols.

Graphics Processing Unit – A programmable logic chip (processor) specialized for display functions. The GPU renders images, animations, and videos for the computer’s screen. GPUs are located on plug-in cards, in a chipset on the motherboard, or in the same chip as the CPU.

Golden Images – A template for a virtual machine (VM), virtual desktop, server or hard disk drive. A golden image may also be referred to as a clone image, master image or base image. To create a golden image, an administrator first sets up the computing environment exactly the way it is needed and then saves the disk image as a pattern for making more copies. The use of golden images can save time and ensure consistency by eliminating the need for repetitive configuration changes and performance tweaks.

Virus – A type of program designed and developed to protect computers from malware like viruses, computer worms, spyware, botnets, rootkits, keyloggers, and such. Antivirus programs function to scan, detect and remove viruses from your computer.

Patches – The process that helps acquire, test, and install multiple patches (code changes) on existing applications and software tools on a computer, enabling systems to stay updated on existing patches and determining which patches are the appropriate ones. Managing patches thus becomes easy and simple.

Two-factor authentication – Sometimes referred to as two-step verification or dual-factor authentication, is a security process in which users provide two different authentication factors to verify themselves. This process is done to better protect both the user’s credentials and the resources the user can access. Major Platforms that our suppliers use for their DaaS services, VMWare Horizon, Citrix Xen Desk, AWS Workspaces, Azure, Windows Virtual Desktop.