Cloud Computing Term
In this section of dinCloud you can find definitions of some very commonly used cloud computing terms.
What is RDS?
RDS stands for Remote Desktop Services. RDS is a server role in Microsoft Server Operating Systems like Win 2008R2, Win 2012 and Win 2016 which enables users to remotely access full Windows Desktop Experience or Windows-based applications installed on the server called RDSH (Remote Desktop Services Host)
VDI solutions like MS RDS or Citrix XenApp makes use of RDS to publish desktops or application and access them through RDP, RemoteFX, ICA, and HDX.
RDS can be set up for dedicated or shared access of desktops and applications.
When dedicated, only the user to whom the desktop or applications are assigned has access to them. All resources on the host (CPU, MEM, Disk, and Network) are dedicated to that single user.
In case of a shared RDS setup, multiple users can simultaneously connect to the same host to access their applications or desktops. However, users only see their own individual session. Host resources like CPU, MEM, Disk, and Network are shared among different sessions.
RDS CALs (Client Access Licenses) are required for each user or device to connect to RDSH. These are managed and tracked by RD Licensing server.
What is VDI ?
VDI or virtual desktop infrastructure is really just the data center elements that enable an organization to have virtual desktops. Usually this entails setting up new storage, networking, servers… in other words, a dedicated data center infrastructure for desktops.
What is DaaS?
DaaS or Desktop-as-a-Service is a type of virtual desktop infrastructure. Also can be known as a hosted virtual desktop infrastructure. All services are outsourced and delivered via the cloud.
What is desktop virtualization?
Desktop virtualization separates the physical client from the software used to run the system. This can prolong the life of aging computers and even allow for tablets and smartphones to access traditional desktop-based programs.
There are several different ways desktop virtualization can be achieved but for simplicity’s sake, we will focus on Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS), which is a function of remote desktop virtualization. DaaS can be a cost-effective way to virtualize a desktop due to real multi-tenancy and higher levels of automation. The DaaS provider takes on all the responsibility for the physical infrastructure, maintenance, obtaining and updating OS and software instances for a fixed monthly fee.
What is a firewall?
When you google the term “firewall,” the first definition that appears defines it as a specially designed wall meant to inhibit or stop the spread of fire. This is a pretty apt description as if you think of a firewall in the technological sense, it’s essentially the same. Instead of inhibiting or preventing the spread of an actual fire, a firewall on a computer network inhibits or prevents malicious sources from entering the system and helping to keep your data safe.
There is a large variety of manufacturers who make and sell this equipment, and each has their own unique features and benefits. Here is a sample list of some of the most common manufacturers as reported by IT Pro Portal:
- Fortinet
- Cisco
- Cyberoam
- FireEye
- Watchguard
- Sophos
- Checkpoint
- Juniper
What is a hosted workspace?
Hosted Workspaces allow users to access a virtualized desktop from any internet connected device. This includes applications (Microsoft Office, Adobe, etc), data and email. The benefits include lower cost of ownership as you no longer need systems with large compute and processing power. Thin clients, which are much cheaper to procure, will become the norm. Gartner reports that Hosted Workspaces (or DaaS) will become the default workspace solution in the very near future.
