When it comes to optimizing your business operations with virtual desktop solutions, you’ll want to explore the top contenders in the market. These five options below offer streamlined workflows and enhanced security measures tailored for small businesses.
From Citrix’s robust platform to Parallels’ user-friendly interface, each solution brings unique advantages to the table. But which one will best suit your specific needs and budget constraints?
Discover the key features which set these virtual desktop solutions apart and pave the way for increased productivity and efficiency in your organization.
Citrix Desktop As A Service
Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops provides a versatile and efficient platform for remote work environments. With Citrix, you can centralize management, enhance security, and streamline access to applications and desktops from anywhere, on any device.
This solution offers a seamless user experience, ensuring your team stays productive and connected. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops also enable easy scalability, allowing your business to adapt to changing needs without major disruptions.
Pricing is from $10 per user per month plus the Azure or Google Cloud compute costs which is typically another $10-$20 giving a total of over $30 per month. With this pricing their market is more aimed at medium to large organizations with hundreds or thousands of users.
VMware Horizon Cloud
VMware Horizon Cloud offers a robust platform for small businesses looking to enhance remote work capabilities and streamline access to applications and desktops.
With VMware Horizon Cloud, you can benefit from a flexible and scalable virtual desktop infrastructure that adapts to your business needs. The platform provides secure access to desktops and applications from any device, improving productivity and collaboration among your team members.
Additionally, VMware Horizon Cloud simplifies IT management by centralizing control and automating tasks like updates and patches. By leveraging VMware’s expertise in virtualization technology, small businesses can optimize their remote work environment efficiently and effectively with VMware Horizon Cloud.
Horizon pricing is around $18 per user per month with a minimum of 10 users
With the acquisition of VMware by Broadcom and the transition to the Omnissa standlone business model, this falls into the last category of marry, snog, avoid.
Amazon WorkSpaces
Amazon WorkSpaces offers a flexible and scalable virtual desktop solution for small businesses seeking to optimize remote work capabilities and enhance productivity. With Amazon WorkSpaces, you can easily provision virtual desktops for your employees and contractors without the need for upfront investments in hardware.
This cloud-based solution allows your team to access their desktop environment from anywhere, at any time, using various devices. Amazon WorkSpaces provides a secure and managed platform, ensuring that sensitive business data remains protected.
You can choose from different bundle options based on your business needs, allowing for customization and cost-effectiveness. Amazon WorkSpaces is a reliable solution that empowers small businesses to streamline their operations and adapt to modern work trends seamlessly. You can get the first 3 months free of charge by leveraging this offer.
If you only need a thin client then you may want to consider Amazon AppStream 2.0 which allows you to operate a monthly ongoing contract for under $10 per month
Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop
If your small business is looking for a robust virtual desktop solution that offers scalability and flexibility, Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop is one option to consider.
With Azure Virtual Desktop, you can securely access your desktop and applications from anywhere, using any device. This solution allows you to scale resources based on your business needs, providing a cost-effective way to manage virtual desktop infrastructure.
The integration with other Microsoft services like Microsoft 365 enhances productivity and collaboration among your team members. Additionally, Azure Virtual Desktop offers advanced security features to protect your data and applications.
The monthly cost is around $10 per month for an A1 virtual machine with 1.75GB RAM. Use the pricing calculator to get a price which meets your compute requirements
Parallels Remote Application Server
Parallels Remote Application Server offers an easy-to-use platform that allows you to centrally manage and deliver virtual desktops and applications to your employees.
With Parallels Remote Application Server, you can provide secure access to business-critical applications and data from any device, enhancing flexibility and productivity. The platform supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it versatile for different business environments.
Its user-friendly interface simplifies the setup process, reducing the burden on your IT team. Additionally, Parallels Remote Application Server provides robust security features to protect your sensitive information, giving you peace of mind.
Parallels is around £120 per year per user with a minimum of 15 users so not really aimed at small businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Virtual Desktop Solutions Benefit Small Businesses in Terms of Cost Savings and Efficiency?
When you consider virtual desktop solutions, you’ll find significant cost savings and boosted efficiency.
Centralized management cuts down on hardware expenses, while employees can access resources from anywhere, enhancing productivity and collaboration.
What Security Measures Are in Place to Protect Sensitive Business Data in Virtual Desktop Environments?
To protect sensitive business data in virtual desktop environments, encryption, multi-factor authentication, regular security updates, and endpoint security solutions are commonly used.
These measures help safeguard your information from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Can Virtual Desktop Solutions Easily Integrate With Existing Software and Applications Used by Small Businesses?
Yes, virtual desktop solutions can seamlessly integrate with your existing software and applications.
They provide flexible compatibility to ensure smooth transitions and maximize efficiency in your small business operations.
Upgrade with ease.
How Does User Support and Troubleshooting Work With Virtual Desktop Solutions for Small Businesses?
When using virtual desktop solutions for your small business, user support and troubleshooting typically involve contacting the provider’s help desk.
They’ll guide you through any technical issues you encounter, ensuring minimal disruptions to your operations.
Conclusion
For a small business where price and contract flexibility are the main concerns then I suggest you go for Azure Virtual Desktop if you need a Windows Desktop and Amazon Workspaces if you need a Linux thin client for securely accessing SaaS applications.
