Hosted Virtual Desktop (HVD) is a cloud-hosted desktop environment offered by third-party providers, which is executed over a Virtual Machine (VM). Although HVD stores business apps and data in the cloud server instead of a local PC, users get an experience like physical PCs. Just like physical PCs, HVD provides a desktop environment to the user. What makes it different is its host of features and flexibility levels. HVD delivers higher flexibility and freedom to access data on a central server provided by a hosted virtual desktop provider. In a conventional PC, all the physical interface is situated on-premises. In a hosted virtual desktop (HVD), one can accomplish all the tasks as data is available on a central server hosted on a Virtual Machine (VM) provided by the hosted virtual desktop provider. 
Some of the benefits HVDs bring along: 
How Does Hosted Virtual Desktop (HVD) Work?
HVD is a cloud service managed by HVD service providers. The provider gives unique login credentials for each user using cloud desktop service & these credentials are used to access virtual desktops from any device or location. Let’s understand the working of virtual desktop hosting or HVD using an example – if an employee needs to work on an assigned task when not in the office. They can log out from the credentials provided by HVD service providers like Ace Cloud Hosting & resume their work from home using the same credentials. So, virtual desktop hosting provides convenience to employees by making the business agile, which ultimately increases the overall productivity & efficiency of the company.High Performing Ace Hosted Virtual Desktop Transforming Industries? Want to know how?
Benefits of HVD
The advent of remote work across all major industries has made the need for an agile and flexible work environment a demand. The modern workforce demands full-time availability anywhere, any time. Here, HVD supports businesses in harnessing the power of the cloud and overcoming remote workplace challenges. Some of the benefits HVDs bring along: Hassle-free Maintenance
Maintenance of any infra within an organization requires a dedicated team, especially when it is responsible for handling critical organization data. The dedicated team is responsible for updating, maintaining, and contrasting with hosted virtual desktops; the maintenance burden falls on the HVD service provider. At the same time, your employee enjoys on-demand access without having to perform patches and security upgrades.Enhanced Security
Security is one of the major concerns when working from home for employees and organizational leaders. HVD Cloud Computing services provide a secure and reliable environment for users to access their applications and data from any device with an internet connection. The key feature of HVD is that the virtual desktop environment is hosted on a cloud server rather than on the user’s device. By using HVD, users can access their desktops and applications from anywhere while still enjoying the same level of security and performance they would get if they were using a traditional desktop environment. HVD also helps to reduce the risk of data loss or theft by isolating the data on the cloud rather than storing it on endpoint devices. Enhanced User Experience
User experience matters the most when instilling new technology within the organization. HVD provides users with a customizable environment that can be tailored to meet their specific business needs. Users can add or remove applications, change settings, and personalize their desktop environment to suit their prerequisites. One of the key advantages of HVD is that it provides a consistent user experience across all devices. This means that users can access their desktop environment and applications from any device and still enjoy the same performance and functionality they would get if they were using a traditional desktop environment.Lower Your CapEx
Hosted Virtual Desktops (HVD) are designed to deliver high-performance computing capabilities to users, regardless of their device. All processing and computing tasks are performed in the cloud rather than on the endpoint device. This means that even low-spec devices can be used to access HVD, as they do not need powerful processors, large amounts of memory, or dedicated graphics cards. Instead, they only require a stable internet connection and a primary web browser to connect to the HVD environment. It significantly impacts a firm’s budget, eliminating the need to purchase expensive hardware or upgrade existing devices to meet the performance requirements of modern applications. Instead, firms can opt for low-cost endpoint devices, such as thin clients or Chromebooks, which are typically much cheaper than traditional desktops or laptops.Higher Flexibility
Cloud technologies, such as hosted virtual desktops (HVDs), have transformed the way we work by enabling remote work environments that are flexible and efficient. HVDs allow employees to securely access their work desktops, applications, data, and settings from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for VPNs to remotely access business resources.Recommended Reading: Is Citrix a VPN?
How Much Does Hosted VDI Cost?
Hosted desktop plans & pricing are flexible, depending on your business requirements; you need to pay for the service you are using. The pricing can be scaled based on the no. of cloud desktops you require & the types of applications or desktop services (DaaS) your firm needs. Look for a hosted desktop provider that provides Higher Bandwidth, at least 30 days of free backup, User-level App Access, Access to Local Drives, Round Clock Support & Updates, and Maintenance.Check Out the Hosted Virtualized Desktop Pricing Plans & OfferIf you are a company or an individual looking for a complete hosted desktop solution, Ace Cloud Hosting provides pay-as-you-use HVD pricing plans with data encryption to ensure robust security & round-the-clock troubleshooting. You can opt for the 7 Day Free Trial of our virtual desktop hosting solution to get an idea & experience of hosted desktop infrastructure for your work. For more information, please contact our experts.
Hosted Virtual Desktop (HVD) vs Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
Both HVD & VDI are types of desktop virtualization that provide a digital working environment for small to medium businesses. The basic difference lies in terms of their working & usage. In Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), the local IT team manages the virtual desktop as the central server is located in the on-premises data center. On the other hand, the hosted virtual desktops are hosted in a third-party service provider’s IT infrastructure. HVD serves as a cloud-based service that provides applications & software to end-user devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Both HVD & VDI are types of desktop virtualization that provide a digital working environment for small to medium businesses. Two technologies similar in functioning and results, what sets them apart? Let’s find out… In Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), the local IT team manages the virtual desktop as the central server is located in the on-premises data center. On the other hand, the hosted virtual desktops are hosted in a third-party service provider’s IT infrastructure. HVD serves as a cloud-based service that provides applications & software to end-user devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets.Business Continuity
Apart from remote workforce enabler, business continuity is one of the most important factors an employer looks for before finalizing any solution for the entire organization. Both VDI and HVD are designed to support business operations around the clock. However, VDI can be a bit vulnerable if installed in an “On-premises setup”. Any natural calamity such as earthquakes or floods can disrupt the servers and damage the storage centers. It will result in huge data as well as capital loss. On the other hand, HVD is a bit more resilient solution. HVD service providers offer DRaaS (Disaster Recovery as a Service) in which the data is copied into multiple datacenters at different locations. Therefore, even if a single server is somehow disturbed, your work will not be hampered.Infrastructure
Hosted virtual desktops are hosted on the cloud service provider’s servers. As HVD is a part of managed services, the service providers will be taking care of the infrastructure including maintenance, bug fixes, updates, addition and removal of users. The Organization need not spend an extra penny on establishing a dedicated IT team. VDI hosts the desktop operating systems on remote servers located inside the data center, and the in-house team manages them. Setting up an in-house team can put a dent in an organization’s future planning. Especially when the company is newly built.Cost
It is a fully managed service that lowers upfront and operational costs. Initially, managed services may seem a little costly as multiple licenses need to be purchased. However, in the longer run, the TCO of an organization will eventually improve, and within a year or 2, the whole HVD cost will be recovered. Additional IT infra team will force VDI users to bear additional expenses to manage and upgrade the IT infrastructure. Moreover, HVD suppliers have a certain level of expertise when managing a dedicated system. It will also incur a capital cost as continuous air conditioning will be required for server rooms.Scalability
HVD operates in a single cloud-based environment. Although both solutions are the same in terms of scalability. The major difference comes when we talk about management. In HVD, management is handled by third-party providers. Therefore, it’s easier to customize and scale. The situation is quite different in VDI. When managing the infra yourself, there’s a possibility of human errors. You must allocate storage, memory, and CPU to scale up or down the VDI environment. This will be time taking, and organizations will lose focus on operations rather than building their brands.HVD Service Providers
- ACE Cloud Solutions: ACE Cloud Hosting is a Hosted virtual desktop service provider. ACE offers a power-packed solution for enterprises seeking mobility, security, and scalability to thrive in remote work shifts. IT leaders frequently need help managing every component of the infrastructure. ACE-Managed HVD solution minimizes IT hassles and ensures maximum productivity. If you are still deciding whether to opt for VDI as a Service, you can even ask for a free trial from ACE.
- Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop: Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (formerly Windows Virtual Desktop) is a cloud-based desktop and application virtualization service. It allows users to securely access their desktops and applications from any device with an internet connection. Azure Virtual Desktop supports Windows and Office apps and allows for personalized desktop experiences. It also integrates with Microsoft 365 and other Microsoft services, making it a popular choice for businesses already using Microsoft products.
- Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops: Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops is a comprehensive virtualization solution that allows users to securely access their desktops and applications from any device with an internet connection. It supports various operating systems and application delivery methods, including virtual apps, desktops, and data. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops also offer advanced security features, including multi-factor authentication and data loss prevention, making it a popular choice for businesses with complex security needs.
Why Choose ACE Hosted Virtual Desktops?
Ace Cloud Hosting provides high-performing hosted virtual desktops trusted by 100+ customers. Our solution and dedicated team have helped organizations minimize significant Capex investment as they don’t need to invest in individual PCs. Furthermore, our solutions have increased employee & business productivity as the virtual desktop is available everywhere, even while traveling. Less maintenance from the IT team on-premises, all platform compatibility, and a higher sense of security with critical data secured on a central server protected from malware or cyber thefts.Conclusion
Business-centric VDI solutions can make streamlining your workflows and business processes difficult. ACE offers you advanced security and seamless cloud migration as your HVD service provider. Our hosted virtual desktops offer you a competitive advantage in leveraging remote work technologies for rapid digital growth. With more than 12 years of experience, ACE offers proactive support to meet your unique business needs, including custom-made hosted virtual desktop solutions. If you want to get customized Hosted virtual desktop pricing or get in touch with our experts who will address your specific HVD needs.
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