VDI vs DaaS; which one should you choose? Today, the working world is demanding better remote access features for desktop environments, creating offices without borders.
As such, more companies are stepping up their game with desktop virtualisation. This enables your staff to work virtually anywhere, empowering them to work productively on both independent and team projects.
Here, we’ll discuss the two main forms of desktop virtualisation, VDI and DaaS, and how they differ from one another. Read on to learn more about VDI vs DaaS.
VDI vs DaaS
VDI stands for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, while DaaS refers to Desktop as a Service. They are efficient solutions for hosted desktop, allowing organisations to eliminate significant IT costs, which comes from installing and updating operating systems (OS) for devices used.
VDI and DaaS have a centrally-pooled infrastructure, concentrating their resources in a data centre for enhanced efficiency. Thus, both technologies are widely used in remote and hybrid working environments.
When comparing VDI vs DaaS, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both systems. Let’s start with VDI.
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An Overview of VDI
VDI enables OS hosting in the cloud, on on-premises servers, or both. The technology is self-managed, and each organisation is responsible for managing its devices’ hardware maintenance, software updates, upgrades, and general upkeep.
Advantages of VDI
1. Mature, tested and proven
VDI has been around for ages, steadily providing a proven solution for the integrated and efficient virtual desktop infrastructure. The VDI system offers stringent security, with little to no chance of data leaks.
2. Complete control
Due to its single-tenant model, VDI offers its customers complete control over all digital assets. For instance, servers, applications, data, operating systems, and more.
3. Dedicated resources
The single-tenant model also means that each organisation enjoy dedicated resources. Moreover, they’re spared of performance issues and other disruptions associated with DaaS customers.
Disadvantages of VDI
1. Steep upfront cost
Forming the underlying infrastructures of a VDI environment typically costs a substantial amount of capital. This is especially true if you lack the equipment or hardware necessary.
2. Network performance issues
In some cases, implementing VDI may put your network into a state of shock, increasing latency and reducing throughput. To avoid this, you must enhance VDI network performance and address heavy loads.
3. Require technical expertise
Since VDI is self-managed, it requires high technical expertise. If your organisation has no in-house talent with VDI skills, you may need to hire a certified professional.
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An Overview of Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS)
Similar to VDI, DaaS host virtual desktops for its user. However, DaaS is hosted on managed cloud infrastructure and delivered as a managed service from cloud vendors. The services are billed on a subscription basis.
Advantages of DaaS
1. Flexible, agile, and modern
The advanced system helps you to modernise your data centre by removing out-of-date infrastructure with minimal responsibilities. With DaaS, you can rest assured as your service provider will manage everything.
2. Enhanced scalability
DaaS is highly scalable as it inherits all advantages of cloud computing. Depending on your organisation’s needs, you can expand or contract your DaaS environment with ease.
3. Reduce capital expenditure
With zero upfront cost, DaaS offers excellent CAPEX savings and provides clients with a healthier cash flow. Hence, you can swiftly benefit from the agility and productivity of adopting desktop visualisation.
Disadvantages of DaaS
1. Ongoing costs
DaaS comes with OPEX-based costs, meaning customers must deal with ongoing expenses. As such, this may, in the long run, wind up costing more than the upfront charges and operational costs of VDI.
2. Data security risks
DaaS comes with network segmentation and data isolation protections. However, the multi-tenant architecture of DaaS settings makes the system somewhat vulnerable to data leaks due to careless or malevolent behaviour.
3. Limited control
Compared to VDI, you wouldn’t enjoy as much control over your digital assets. This is due to the fact that DaaS is managed and operated by your service provider of choice.
Device-as-a-Service: A New DaaS
Going a step further, ICT Zone introduces a way to revolutionise your workplace technology through Device as a Service: A business IT management solution that encompasses the acquiring, managing, usage, and end-of-life care of your devices.
With this new DaaS, clients not only benefit from seamless management of your organisation’s devices, but also contribute to sustainability with an IT lifecycle management that makes the most of your devices.
While businesses are billed on a subscription basis, which contributes to ongoing costs, the convenience of DaaS is invaluable. The scalability, security, and predictability offered are key tools in transforming your workplace IT.
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In the choice between VDI vs both types of DaaS, be sure to understand your organisation’s needs and do thorough research. We hope this article has helped steer you towards the best solution for your business.
Now that you know which desktop virtualisation is the right answer for you, check out our affordable end-to-end lifecycle management solutions for physical hardware such as PCs and workstations. Explore our range of products designed to cater to your changing business needs.
