Checklist: Is Remote Desktop Services (RDS) right for WFH needs?

[Willa]

There are a lot of options for remote working implementations. Deciding which is best for a business can be confusing. That’s why we’re providing a quick checklist of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) features, so organizations can see if it will meet their needs.

 
Like other solutions, organizations can use a Microsoft Remote Desktop client to connect remote employees with business applications, files, and data that live in a central location, such as an on-premises server. Here are a few reasons why they may want to consider RDS.

 
Need to keep an eye on the budget
COVID-19 put the world economy in a tailspin. Even if a business is flush with cash right now, it’s smart to preserve cashflow in uncertain times. Fortunately, RDS is included with Windows Server. If an organization is already running Windows Server they have RDS functionality, they just need to make sure to have correct CALs before they starting to use it. That makes it very affordable. In addition, HPE Financial Services is working hard to make sure customers can access the IT they need to keep the business running. They can choose from several offers designed to help alleviate some of their current financial strain and position them for future success.

 
Need to support multiple types of users
RDS enables lightweight session-based desktops and applications as well as full VDI capabilities . Session hosts are typically a more cost-effective model and best when user resource requirements are fairly low. VDI may be best when organizations need more application compatibility and a familiar Windows Client operating system experience. If a business needs to support users with intense graphics needs, they can attach GPUs to their host server or map a GPU to a VM to provide a better experience for these users. NOTE: for full VDI capabilities, additional VDI licensing may be required.

 
Need to lower the learning curve
With all the chaos going on in most business environments right now, there’s no need to add any complexity. Because it is included in Windows Server, it is something many IT support teams can work with more easily, and it can fit seamlessly into their Windows environments. User can access their desktops with a familiar Windows experience as well. In addition, RDS lets users log on and access applications from their device of choice—Windows^®, Apple^®, or Android^® computers, tablets, and phones.

 
Need to maintain security and control
The world may have been turned upside-down, but cyber-criminals and tech glitches don’t take vacations. With RDS, organizations can store business files, data, user personalization, and settings securely on-premises. Plus, RDS ties in with Active Directory (AD) authentication. Because all the processing takes place on the on-premises server, existing security, data protection, and business continuity plans are still in place.

It’s time to refresh servers and operating system
Windows Server 2008 end of support  has caught many businesses behind schedule for refreshes. If a business is going to invest in remote technologies, it’s best to have the latest tech to give users the best possible experience. For RDS, HPE Small Business Solution for Small Office Deployment with Windows Server 2019 are a great option. This is a one‑stop shop for a complete solution built on HPE ProLiant Gen10 servers and Windows Server 2019. They give configuration options that are sized right to empower employees with work from home productivity.

 
If any of these are true for the business, it’s time to find out more. Check out the Enable Work from Home Productivity solution brief to learn more.

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Willa Anderson
Hewlett Packard Enterprise

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