Remote Desktop Services (RDS) has been the remote access backbone protocol to Windows servers since Windows Server 2003. Talk about a tried-and-tested solution!
However, this remote access and management capability can do much more for business than merely ease the burden of IT systems management. Giving users the ability to access and work on a remote machine has multiple business benefits such as reduced costs, improved efficiencies and the option to rapidly deploy and manage advanced end-user applications. In short, an ideal tool for companies who want to adapt to the new reality of “work from anywhere”.
If your clients need to take their remote work experience to another level, here are five good reasons you should help them out with RDS.
#1 Delivering a single application experience
Flexibility is an underlying theme throughout the modern workplace, which gives users the freedom to work on a variety of different platforms while engaged on a single task or assignment. However, if the user is on a non-Windows device such as an Apple or Chromebook, working on a Windows-only application is just not possible.
RDS solves this problem as it allows organizations to create a unified remote desktop experience for all users. By configuring an RDS environment, businesses can give users on any platform access to use the specialized application. Also, delivering applications this way also provides standardization and eases management’s burden of making sure every user is on the latest version.
#2 Data security
Working remotely has truly transformed the occupational landscape, but it also creates data security challenges. When users are accessing data remotely, there is a risk of users copying data to their end-user devices or using public filesharing services which create a serious security risk if left unmanaged.
If organizations choose to deploy RDS as their remote work solution, this data risk is mitigated. All data is stored on servers under the direct management of the organization giving businesses the oversight and control they need over data flow and access.
#3 Simplified management
Standardization is a crucial principle in IT management as it lightens the administrative burden increasing efficiency while lowering costs. Furthermore, there are real business benefits with adopting simple solutions that have fewer moving parts as these are easier to manage and cost less over time.
Deploying any solution through RDS is an answer which is both standardized and simplified. Administrators can deploy complex solutions in a single instance without the need to manage multiple operating environments. Also, any maintenance needs only to be performed once which dramatically reduces the time and increases security associated with system updates, backups and similar operational tasks.
#4 Reduced costs
Cost reduction is an overarching objective of every organization, be it a commercial enterprise or a non-profit.
RDS reduces the overall cost of IT infrastructure. It does this directly by minimizing the investment needed in hardware and software and indirectly by reducing overhead costs associated with IT operations.
#5 Improved redundancy and uptime
Today’s world is dependent on online services, and any downtime has a monumental impact on both the organization and its users. Loss of revenue, loss of productivity and a negative impact on reputation are all real consequences when systems and services go down unexpectedly. To ensure optimal uptime, businesses need to invest in solutions with built-in redundancy to ensure resiliency in mitigating risks which threaten system availability.
As RDS is a server-based solution, organizations can easily configure the platform for maximum uptime by deploying multiple instances of the same RDS solution across several servers. In addition, RDS solutions are implemented in data centers which have the necessary infrastructure redundancy built in. The additional expenditure is negligible when compared to the investment needed in creating redundancy for an end-user computing environment.
Why Remote Desktop Services works best with Microsoft Azure
Azure Remote Desktop Services takes the benefits of RDS and expands the offering by providing RDS on a global enterprise-grade cloud platform. With the Microsoft Azure platform, managed service providers (MSPs) can rapidly deploy a cost-effective, redundant and scalable platform to host Windows desktops and applications for their clients.
As Microsoft manages the underlying infrastructure, choosing to deploy RDS on Azure gives MSPs the flexibility and benefits that come with a world-class infrastructure as a service offering. The advanced hardware, software and networking requirements are taken care of, giving you the freedom to concentrate on building solutions which are relevant and add value to your business. Also, the pay-per-use model and no upfront capital expenditure makes Azure RDS an affordable option for businesses of any size looking to deploy and manage remote operating environments.
Work with an expert partner to deliver Remote Desktop Services for clients
As a busy MSP, you want to dedicate your efforts where they can have a maximum impact. More often than not, that maximum impact doesn’t extend to learning the nuances of the Microsoft ecosystem and complete Azure opportunity.
Working with an indirect provider partner for RDS and Microsoft Azure gives you a centralized point of contact for any areas you might need help with, and ensures you make the most of your cloud investment. A great partner can even help you deploy your managed services for clients and make sure you get the maximum return for incentives and certifications.
Sherweb helps MSP partners with cloud migration and deployment, freeing up time to close more deals and cultivate valuable business relationships. Furthermore, Sherweb’s value-added cloud marketplace and services stack provides MSPs with additional opportunities for upselling and cross selling both Microsoft and third-party cloud products, while avoiding some of the complications and requirements involved with working with Microsoft directly.
