The concept of a hosted desktop is very simple.
Very few people who are using a hosted desktop will notice that they’re not using a standard PC. In an ideal world a virtual hosted desktop sits on a high spec server that is mirrored in at least 1 additional location. Mirrored servers are essential to assist in disaster recovery and business continuity. A virtual hosted desktop can be accessed either through a web browser, through a shortcut link on the user’s traditional desktop/laptop or through a Thin Client system.
Remote working on the hosted desktop
Many people access their work computers through systems such as ‘Go To My PC’ so think that as their main computer can be accessed remotely that this is a hosted desktop. From a performance aspect these two ways of working are like comparing a ZX Spectrum to the super computer at the Met Office. Also from a technological view, these two ways of accessing a desktop don’t offer the same solution as a true virtual hosted desktop.
Generally speaking the virtual hosted desktop is rented on a per user per month basis. This means that costs can be locked down and clearly understood. So if accountancy firms are looking to increase or reduce staff numbers then the technology costs associated with this are clearly understood.
Within the virtual hosted desktop for accountants you will be able to run all of the standard software you’re currently running in your office. However we support the programs, so whether you’re hosting Iris software, hosting CCH, hosting Sage, hosting Digita, Virtual Cabinet, BTCSoftware etc you won’t have to pay a per hour cost to outsource your IT support. These costs are included in a flat monthly fee.
Speed of the hosted desktop
Performance is often a concern for organisations. The main concern is internet connection speed. However most places in the UK have good broadband speed and this is getting better by the day. Any connection speed issues are more than compensated for by the fact that all the programs run on a state of the art server which has incredibly powerful processors. So whether you’re looking at hosting Digita, hosting Iris or hosting Sage, you should see a significant improvement in the performance of the programs.
Security of the hosted desktop
Security is rightly a concern for organisations looking at deploying virtual hosted desktop’s, but in reality when you partner with a company who are dedicated to providing this type of service, you’re getting the very best in data protection. The data centres are state of the art premises that are dedicated to running servers. Large amounts of money that are spent on protecting your data goes on technology such as gaseous fire suppression, raised flooring and under floor leak detection, dual utility power feeds from separate substations, 24/7 CCTV, on-site security and the best fire walls that are available. Your data is safe in our hands when it's on our hosted desktop.
Business benefits of a hosted desktop
Security is covered with enterprise standard hardware and anti-virus. Performance from top of the range servers with little being downloaded to the local PC means most firms of accountants will notice an increase in processing speed. Pay for what you use, per person per month. The business benefits of having a hosted desktop solution for your accountancy firm will quickly add up, both in terms of cost savings and business continuity.
Want to know more about our virtual hosted desktop for accountants?
Follow the link to organise a free trial of our virtual hosted desktop or feel free to call us on 0800 440 2282.