4 Things to Consider When Choosing a DaaS Provider, Part 4: Flexibility

In evaluating VDI or DaaS providers, it becomes clear that some offer more flexibility than others. Whether due to business practices or technical limitations, some providers are simply able to offer greater degrees of customization and flexibility. Here are three specific ways flexibility can differentiate DaaS providers:

1. Endpoint Management – Any DaaS provider has the ability to remove significant IT overhead for its customers, but some remove more of the burden than others. Virtual desktops are immeasurably more secure than a physical PC, but they do require endpoint devices for access. Although the virtual desktops are completely isolated from the physical endpoints, intrusion software (e.g. key loggers) still pose as a security risk to company data. This is why some DaaS providers have added secure endpoints, such as Dizzion’s zLink, to their service options. These devices are remotely updated, have added hardware and software controls, are less expensive than traditional endpoints, have no moving parts, and provide a hardened OS to prevent any intentional or unintentional security risks; meaning the company needs less IT support while data ultimately becomes more secure.
2. Application Virtualization – This one ties a back into support; let me explain why. Many organizations have business-critical applications that are becoming unsecure and outdated. Microsoft’s Terminal Services may be an example your company is using today. Applications like these can be clunky, unreliable, and offer poor remote connectivity. This is where your DaaS provider’s expertise comes in. Providers like Dizzion offer services that can virtualize nearly any application and have it run exactly like it is on the virtual desktop. This secures legacy applications, keeps them compatible, and removes any OS dependencies that the application may have. In addition to that, application control and management can easily be done quickly and from one central location.
3. Softphones Integration – This last capability may be something that you didn’t realize DaaS providers are even capable of, and that is because most aren’t. If it sounds like I am only talking about Dizzion here, it is because Dizzion has extended capabilities beyond what typical DaaS providers are able to offer. Our platform can support toll quality voice calls directly through our virtual desktops (no external VPN required). We have the ability to run any technology as well such as Cisco, Avaya, Five9, or others. On top of that, we can support WebEx calls at up to 720p. This means no more hard phones and no more VPNs, IP filtering, or port management/troubleshooting for each end user; even from work at home environments.

DaaS offers multiple security, management, and end user benefits that can streamline your business and allow you to shift focus to higher-value activities than desktop support. Moving your entire company, or even a few departments, to DaaS can be a vital and serious decision for your company. Be sure to select the provider that can meet or exceed your virtual desktop needs both today and well into the future.

Check out parts 1-3 of the series:

• Read Part 1: Infrastructure
  
• Read Part 2: Cost
• Read Part 3: Support