Cloud Computing

Azure Virtual Desktop

Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop: The Affordable and Secure Desktop Solution

If you’re in need of a cost-effective and secure desktop experience, consider Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD). AVD offers a full Windows 10/11 PC desktop to your users, complete with the applications and security controls you set up. What’s more, it’s highly cost-effective, making it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. And the best part? You can access AVD from any device, even an Apple iPad, so you’ll never be without your Windows applications again.

Welcome to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)! AVD is a cloud-based virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution by Microsoft that offers remote access to desktop environments and applications. This comprehensive guide will explain what Azure Virtual Desktop is, its benefits, and how it can revolutionise your organisation’s daily operations. Let’s dive in!

What is Azure Virtual Desktop?

Azure Virtual Desktop is a virtual desktop and application service running on Microsoft Azure. It enables you to access Windows desktops and applications from anywhere, on any device, while offering excellent performance and security. AVD is the first truly multi-user Windows 10 experience and supports both Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) and Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD).

Azure Virtual Desktop is also a powerful solution for hybrid work settings, enabling seamless remote collaboration for teams working both remotely and on-premises. By providing secure data access and streamlined management of resources, this platform ensures that essential information remains protected while allowing for efficient communication and collaboration. Its flexibility allows businesses to scale up or down as needed, ensuring that they can adjust to changes in workforce requirements. Additionally, the intuitive interface offers a user-friendly experience for all users, promoting quick adoption and minimal learning curves. Ultimately, Azure Virtual Desktop enhances overall business productivity, making it an essential tool in today’s hybrid workspace environment.

Key Features of Azure Virtual Desktop

  • Multi-User Windows 10 Access: AVD allows organisations to run multiple concurrent user sessions on a single Windows 10 VM. This is more cost-effective than traditional hosting solutions.
  • Modern Infrastructure: AVD takes advantage of Azure’s cutting-edge cloud services, giving users access to the latest developments in cloud computing technology.
  • Scalability: AVD provides unparalleled scalability, allowing organisations to add or remove virtual machines and resources on demand to meet growing or shrinking requirements.
  • Flexible Deployment Options: AVD supports a variety of deployment options, including hybrid cloud and on-premises deployments.
  • Microsoft 365 Integration: Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Enhanced Security: AVD is built on Azure, which has over 3,500 cybersecurity experts working to protect your data. It also supports the Microsoft Information Protection and Azure Active Directory features.
  • Centralised Management: AVD offers a unified administrative interface for managing virtual machines, applications, user sessions, and network settings.

Why choose SMS for your cloud services?

Here’s why you should consider SMS first when looking for a cloud applications provider.

We really care

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You’ll always have up-to-date versions of the full suite of Microsoft Office applications. Includes Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, Exchange, Access*, OneNote, OneDrive + 1TB cloud storage.

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Install on up to five devices per user. Work from local versions on desktops and laptops, or through apps and browsers on mobiles and tablets.

A Microsoft Office 365 email hosting plan offers a wealth of features which enable collaboration and communication while ensuring the security and compliance of your data. As a Microsoft Gold Partner, SMS provides all Microsoft Office 365 services at the best prices, with the best in UK support from our experienced technical engineers.

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Outlook & Microsoft Teams features help you stay up to date with your colleagues.

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Easy collaboration and document sharing with 1 TB OneDrive storage.

Our mission is to ensure fantastic customer service from choosing and setting up your solution through to helping you to use the features. At SMS, we remove the technical burdens giving you a hassle-free experience from day one.

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Best application for building spreadsheets. Analyse data, develop models and create powerful visualisations.

PowerPoint 365

The world’s favourite application for building compelling presentations. Showcase the results of your analysis visually.

Outlook 365

Most fully featured email application. Manage your emails, appointments and tasks with Outlook.

Teams

Connect internally or externally easily and seamlessly. Tools for instant messaging, chat, video conferencing and screen sharing.

Exchange

Microsoft Exchange is the powerful email server technology powering your Microsoft Outlook client. Used by companies all around the world to manage their corporate email systems.

Microsoft Access

Create and manage your own database applications easily. Save time with pre-built app and spreadsheet templates.

OneNote

Capture your creativity and organise your thoughts with handwritten notes, drawings, screenshots, photos and videos. Collaborate on projects and documents.

OneDrive

Store documents online and access them from anywhere. Share files with team members and collaborate in real time.

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