An on-premises IT system isn’t always the best option for your business. One alternative worth trying is a hosted desktop. This solution gives you access to the major benefits of an on-premises system, but with a few differences that just might make it better suited for your company’s needs.
 

What is a hosted desktop?

 Like a conventional desktop computer, a hosted desktop can run various types of software and access the internet. What makes it different is that it’s not limited to just a single machine. In fact, you can access a hosted desktop through any device, as long as the said device is connected to the internet.
 
A hosted desktop is also called a virtual desktop, and as the name suggests, a virtual desktop is entirely virtual. Its operating system (OS), data, applications, and system configurations are stored in remote cloud-based servers.
 

What are the benefits offered by a hosted desktop setup?

A hosted desktop has the same capabilities as a conventional on-premises IT setup but with these extra benefits:
 

1. Increased flexibility

The biggest benefit of a hosted desktop is that it keeps you from being stuck to your office computer. This has many positive implications.
 
A hosted desktop allows you to work remotely from any location as long as you are connected to the internet. Because your files, applications, and proprietary data are stored in a cloud-based server, you can access them and be as effective in your room, a cafe, or any other location as if you were at your desk at the office.
 
Enabling your staff to work remotely gives your business another article’s worth of benefits. As an example, it opens your business to the concept of bring your own device (BYOD), in which employees use their own personal devices, such as smartphones and laptops, to perform their tasks. BYOD not only enhances flexibility, but it also allows your staff to work using machines they are already familiar with.
 
Flexible working options, such as BYOD and the ability to work anywhere, are attractive to younger, more tech-savvy individuals. In fact, millennial workers consider flexible working options among the most important perks an employer can offer. That said, if you’re looking to create a workforce composed of young talents, then hosted desktop is a viable option.
 

2. Lower equipment expenses

A common misconception about on-premises servers and computer units is that they are a one-time investment. In truth, an on-premises system entails continuous expenses for equipment repair and maintenance. Additionally, you’ll need to upgrade to newer, more powerful units every few years. If not upgraded, your IT system will become obsolete.
 
Hosted desktop means all computing processes happen in cloud-based servers and not your actual in-house computers. You won’t need to spend on expensive machine upgrades — in fact, you can even access the virtual desktop using your old computers.
 

3. Protection from computer-related issues

If your office computer breaks down, you risk losing access to your files. This isn’t a problem with a hosted desktop where your files and their backups are all stored in the cloud. Should you encounter any hiccups in your machine, you can just use another device and continue where you left off.
 
This also makes a hosted desktop ideal for disaster recovery. An on-premises system and the files stored in it are always at risk of being damaged by natural disasters. Because your files are backed up in the hosted desktop, they remain intact and available for future use.
 

4. First-class data security

There are many ways you could lose your business data in an on-premises setup. A machine error could result in corruption, employee negligence could cause a breach, or hackers could steal sensitive information.
 
Because a virtual desktop setup stores your files in cloud-based servers, you won’t lose your data even if the device used to access it is stolen. Backups and high-level cybersecurity measures also protect your files from corruption and cyberattacks respectively.
 

5. Higher productivity

The occasional change in environment enabled by remote work allows your employees to accomplish more every day. Access to the cloud also enhances productivity and efficiency by improving collaboration across workers and different teams. This way, investing in a hosted desktop sets up your business for better outputs and an increased bottom line.
 
At SimplyClouds, we help our clients make the cloud a key part of their business and increase their capabilities and profit through it. Contact us today to get started!