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As our world has become more digital, the workforce has had to find ways to adapt. To adjust to these changes, many companies have adopted the use of virtual desktops. A virtual desktop is a computer program that can be accessed from anywhere on any device. Instead of data being stored on the device itself, a virtual desktop stores it on a remote cloud server. There are many virtual desktop providers on the market offering virtual PCs to individuals and businesses. Examples of virtual desktop providers include vDesk.works, Citrix, and Cloudalize. In this article, we will go over everything businesses need to know about virtual desktop providers.

Benefits of Using Virtual Desktop Providers

Businesses can greatly benefit from using virtual desktop providers. The benefits of using virtual desktop providers include increased flexibility, reduced costs, increased security, simplified IT management, and the ability to scale up or down as needed. These benefits will be discussed in more detail below.

1. Increased Flexibility

Companies should utilize the services of virtual desktop providers since they are highly flexible. Many virtual desktops are device-agnostic, allowing users to access the desktop environment on any device or operating system. When companies use virtual desktop providers, they can implement a BYOD (bring-your-own-device) culture, which is useful for fully remote companies or companies with hybrid working models.

2. Reduced Costs

Businesses can reduce costs when they work with virtual desktop providers. By using virtual desktops, companies can spend less on IT infrastructure and providing devices to every employee. Another way that virtual desktops can help companies save on costs is that software licenses can be downloaded to the central server and distributed to users rather than buying a software license for each user.

3. Increased Security

Virtual desktops also provide increased security. While local desktops store data and files on the device itself, virtual desktops store them on a remote server. The data will still be on the remote server if the device is lost or damaged. Company managers can remove a lost or stolen device from the infrastructure. Many virtual desktop providers also include security measures such as frequent backups, firewalls, anti-virus protection, single sign-on measures, and multi-factor authentication.

4. Simplifying IT Management

Companies can simplify their IT management when they use virtual desktops. Many virtual desktop providers have on-site IT support teams to assist users with technical difficulties. Using a virtual desktop provider means that companies do not have to have an extensive in-house IT team.

5. Scalability

Virtual desktops are also highly scalable. Managers can easily add or remove users, devices, and software licenses as the company’s needs change. A high scalability level is useful in scenarios where a company has a major increase or decrease in its number of employees.

What Industries Can Use Virtual Desktop Providers?

Many industries can benefit from using virtual desktop providers. These industries include healthcare, education, legal services, financial services, and construction. Specific use cases for these industries will be explained in detail below.

1. Healthcare

The healthcare industry can greatly benefit from using virtual desktops. Doctors and nurses can use virtual desktops to view patient information and files even while they are not in the hospital. They can also share this information with co-workers. Many virtual desktop providers are compliant with HIPAA and PCI regulations.

2. Education

Schools and universities can benefit from using virtual PCs. Online students can attend their classes using a virtual desktop. These students can also easily communicate with their teachers and work on group projects with classmates. Teachers can add or remove students from the infrastructure according to class sizes.

3. Legal Services

Law firms can use virtual desktop providers. Lawyers and paralegals can use virtual desktops to view case information from any device and location. Due to the virtual desktop’s security measures, case information will always be safe and secure.

4. Financial Services

The finance industry can benefit from using virtual desktops. Financial professionals can use virtual desktops to easily access client information. Users can share this information with co-workers. Virtual desktops can also integrate with accounting software tools such as QuickBooks and SigerTax.

5. Construction

The construction industry can greatly benefit from using virtual PCs. Multiple construction sites can be managed with the use of virtual desktops. Users can upload and share documents and signatures to the central cloud server. These files will always be safe and secure through the remote cloud server. Managers can add software licenses to the system, such as AutoCAD, so that workers can use them for projects.

Potential Downsides of Virtual Desktop Providers

Company managers should keep in mind some of the potential downsides of using virtual desktops. One of these potential downsides is that virtual desktops rely entirely on having a stable internet connection. If remote workers do not have a good internet connection at home, they will be unable to work. Also, work will be stopped at the office if an event such as a power outage occurs. However, many virtual desktop providers have frequent backups so that data will be saved if the infrastructure goes offline. In addition, remote workers who don’t have stable internet connections at home can work in co-working spaces. Overall, the benefits of using virtual desktops outweigh any potential downsides.