In my Demystifying RDP series, I’ll start by covering the basics.

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) was baked into the Windows client Operating System (OS) when Windows XP was released in 2001.

RDP is a proprietary protocol from Microsoft that provides users with a graphical interface to connect to another computer over a network.

The RDP protocol helps in the setup of server-based computing.

It enables clients to connect to servers – and in the context of RDP, those servers will run operating systems (e.g., Microsoft Windows) or applications (e.g., Sage BOB50, Microsoft Navision, etc.).

Since then, RDP technology has evolved rapidly. Truthfully, it’s become a complex endeavor that only a few people master.

Below, I’ll provide structure and simplify the complexity of RDP, the different options and elements, the high-level benefits, and the downsides. We’ll also explain how Parallels Secure Workspace layers benefits on top of RDP and the various ways to deploy it. I’ll keep it high-level in part 1 of the series, then deep dive into some of the situations and areas mentioned in subsequent posts. Now, let’s get started.

Ready to get started with your free trial of Parallels Secure Workspace? Download it now.

VDI vs. RDS

Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is the main glue connecting clients (e.g., laptops or desktops) to operating systems and applications that are running on a remote device. Typically, this will be a server, but it might also be a personal computer in some cases.

We can identify two models in which RDP is used.

The following picture can serve as a summarized overview — read on for more detail.

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

In VDI, the client connects to a dedicated host running a client version of Windows, such as the instance of Windows 7 or Windows 10 that is running on your laptop. The “host” will typically be a virtual machine, but it could also be a PC (on the condition that it’s connected to power and the network).

This virtual machine is dedicated to the client and cannot be shared.

As end users can access a remote but dedicated operating system, they can also get admin rights and install desktop applications themselves. From an infrastructure perspective, VDI is considered expensive as every user would typically have their own Virtual Machine running a version of Windows, and there is no resource sharing.

Microsoft has introduced Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure. As part of Windows Virtual Desktop, Microsoft also introduced multi-session Windows 10. This is only available on Azure, not on any other public or private cloud.

Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

Microsoft RDS, in contrast to VDI, is a server-based technology. (Note: previously, RDS was referred to as Terminal Server). For example, it doesn’t run on the version of Windows 10 that you run on your PC but on a Windows Server.

The biggest benefit of RDS being a server-based technology is that your infrastructure resources can be shared — multiple users can access the same operating system simultaneously.

What resources are end users accessing? The resource(s) in question could be a full desktop or a single application.

In the case of the full desktop, the actual resource accessed would be a Windows server, which is typically skinned to make it look like a desktop version of Windows.

However, it is not a desktop version, meaning that some desktop applications might be unable to run. RDS or Remote Desktop Services is a framework of roles. These roles are explained below. You don’t need all these roles for a simple VDI connection (without RDS).

I already covered how RDS can be used to give access to full desktops and individual applications.

For the latter, RemoteApp is involved. RemoteApp is a subset of Microsoft RDS, which gives the end user the impression they only have access to a single and isolated application (e.g., Microsoft Excel) without the operating system behind it.

For this purpose, you can use RemoteApp and install applications like Microsoft Excel on this desktop. The end user will then remotely launch their Windows (Server) and then open Excel inside that instance of Windows.

Note that RemoteApp is only available as of Windows Server 2008R2. Technically, the RDS technology can also be used to connect to VDI-based desktops. That means that you can connect via RDP to a VDI, but also via RDP over an RDS platform to a VDI. In this shared infrastructure, end users can’t enjoy admin access. However, the consumed infrastructure costs will be considerably lower than VDI from an economic perspective.

Start your free trial of Parallels Secure Workspace, and stay tuned for the next post in my series aimed at demystifying RDP.

This uncertainty primarily stems from Broadcom’s historical approach to acquisitions, which has often led to negative outcomes for the acquired businesses. And now they have potentially done the same with VMware.

Recently, it was announced that Broadcom plans to sell VMware’s EUC division to the highest bidder. Now the wait begins to discover who that would be and what the future holds for VMware partners and customers.

Ready to start your future now? Get a full-featured free trial of Parallels RAS and discover a simple, secure VMware alternative.

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Moreover, VMware leadership has also sent termination notices to VMware partners that are making below $500K in annual VMware revenue. This will have significant impact on VMware customers, reducing the support received by partners and the channel alike.

In light of these concerns, it’s imperative for current VMware partners and users to consider developing migration plans and evaluating other virtualization solutions. This period of uncertainty might, in fact, serve as an opportune moment for such considerations.

Often in IT, there’s a tendency to adhere to the adage, “if it’s not broken, why fix it?”

This mindset can be limiting, as it discourages making even minor adjustments to an established environment for fear of causing significant disruptions. This approach can hinder the ability to optimize costs or improve efficiency. In many cases, costs may be increasing, but within a somewhat tolerable or expected range — for example, an 8% increase annually.

However, the situation with VMware and Broadcom provides a compelling reason for Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) and leading IT managers to start seriously evaluating alternative IT environment solutions.

For VMware users, this scenario presents a unique catalyst for change. While there is undoubtedly a substantial amount of work involved in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) evaluation and product testing to ensure new solutions align with business needs, this could lead to significant adjustments in the costs, time, and resources associated with existing IT deployments.

Such a strategic pivot could ultimately prove beneficial, offering an avenue to reassess and possibly enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of IT environments in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. We believe that Parallels offers a fantastic alternative to VMWare Horizon.

Parallels RAS —A flexible and refined app and desktop delivery solution

Parallels® RAS is an all-in-one virtual application and desktop delivery solution that enables organizations of all sizes to work securely from anywhere, on any device. Deploy on-premises, hybrid, or public cloud and integrate with existing technologies like Azure virtual desktop.

With Parallels RAS, organizations can adapt and scale to changing business needs.

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How does Parallels RAS compare to VMware Horizon?

Many VMware Horizon customers will want to be sure that their new solution will fit their needs and to mitigate any impact on business continuity. The best way to do this is to try the solution and test it for yourself. But before you do all that, let’s look at how Parallels RAS compares to VMware Horizon.

Flexibility — Hybrid by design

For numerous businesses, constraints in resource deployment options often prove to be counterproductive. Having the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions, client demands, and technological advancements is crucial for sustained growth and competitiveness. Being boxed into a specific mode of operation or a limited set of tools can hinder innovation and responsiveness.

VMware Horizon licensing options are diverse and complex, offering licenses that are specific to applications-only or limited to on-premises desktops-only. This can be a significant hurdle for organizations that need to alter their delivery methods mid-subscription or desire the flexibility to choose their resource delivery locations.

VMware’s Universal Licensing does offer customers the flexibility to navigate between on-premises and cloud environments, however, this expanded capability comes at a higher price point compared to more basic licensing options.

Alternatively, Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS) has been meticulously designed to be flexible and provide seamless integration across various IT environments.

It can support on-premises, hybrid, and full public cloud infrastructures, including cloud technologies like Azure Virtual Desktop, all from a single console. This adaptability makes Parallels RAS an ideal solution for organizations looking to maintain agility in their IT operations.

With a single subscription model, Parallels RAS encompasses the entire hybrid use case, offering comprehensive coverage without the need for multiple separate licenses.

This approach simplifies the licensing process, making it more cost-effective and manageable for businesses. Parallels RAS allows organizations to shift between on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments as their needs evolve, without incurring additional licensing costs or facing compatibility issues.

A simplified, enhanced user experience

Parallels RAS enhances the user experience in various ways for both IT managers and users.

Parallels RAS effectively elevates the Azure Virtual Desktop experience through its native integration — something VMware Horizon lacks. VMware’s approach of replacing the AVD Control Plane with its own delays the incorporation of Microsoft’s AVD updates. Parallels RAS’s direct integration with the AVD Control Plane enables it to leverage Microsoft’s advancements swiftly and efficiently in AVD.

Parallels RAS also excels in customization. Businesses can infuse their brand identity into the Parallels Client with customizable Themes.

These Themes allow organizations to white label the user experience and use their brand colors, titles, icons, language, and other configurations to create a personalized experience in the Parallels Web Client or Windows Client. IT Administrators can even set up dedicated URLs for different departments or customers, along with specific security features like MFA and SSO and override global settings.

In contrast, VMware’s customization capabilities are limited to basic elements like logos, text, links, and client background.

Attention to detail is a hallmark of the Parallels RAS solution. For instance, the Parallels Client on Windows aids users in password changes, offering guidance and the option to redirect password change prompts to an external Identity Provider (IDP), rather than just the Active Directory domain. This user-centric feature is not present in VMware’s offerings.

Moreover, Parallels RAS enhances user experiences through its Session Pre-Launch feature. This function anticipates user needs by starting a session before the user initiates an application, based on their previous habits.

The Session Pre-Launch feature employs client policies for granular configuration, analyzing and recording (via machine learning) when a user typically launches applications on a specific day of the week. By starting a session just minutes before the usual application launch time, it significantly improves the user experience.

In contrast, VMware Horizon’s Session Prelaunch capability is more limited. It is only available for published applications and does not support remote desktops. This restriction means that VMware cannot offer the same level of proactive, user-specific session preparation that Parallels RAS provides.

Total Cost of Ownership: Parallels RAS vs. VMware Horizon

Optimizing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is crucial for many organizations, and Parallels RAS excels in this aspect, offering a more advantageous TCO than VMware Horizon.

Parallels RAS simplifies its licensing with an annual concurrent user fee, contrasting with VMware’s varied and often more expensive licenses. The installation and setup of Parallels RAS are notably quicker and more straightforward than VMware Horizon, eliminating the need for specialized knowledge or additional training, thereby reducing costs.

Moreover, ongoing administration is more streamlined with Parallels RAS, which is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, in contrast to VMware Horizon.

For IT administrators using VMware, tasks like creating and managing users or monitoring operational dashboards, health, and performance analytics require switching between the Admin Web Console and the Help Desk Tool.

Parallels RAS, on the other hand, centralizes all these functions within a single, easy-to-use console. This integration significantly reduces the time spent by IT administrators on these tasks, allowing them to allocate more time to other important duties.

Simplicity is paramount in Parallels RAS

Parallels RAS offers a user-friendly, unified digital workspace, streamlining management and deployment. It features a single admin console for comprehensive access, including one-stop management, end-to-end load balancing, support for multiple hypervisors and cloud environments, image provisioning, autoscaling, and more.

In contrast, VMware presents a more complex and time-consuming approach. VMware Horizon users must use the Horizon Console for managing virtual and published desktops and applications but switch to the Help Desk Tool for operational dashboards, health monitoring, and performance analytics.

License management in Parallels RAS is straightforward, with all licensing is handled by the Connection Brokers, with the primary broker reporting usage to the Parallels Licensing console.

VMware Horizon, on the other hand, manages licensing either through the Horizon Console or, for subscription services, via the Horizon Control Plane, adding layers of complexity. Additionally, other VMware products, like AppVolumes, require management from separate consoles. Parallels RAS also integrates Microsoft FSLogix into its management console. This integration simplifies the management of Office and Profile Containers and other settings directly in the GUI. While FSLogix is supported by VMware Horizon, it lacks console integration, adding complexity for IT administrators.

Security is built into the solution

Security and compliance features are comparably robust in both Parallels RAS and VMware Horizon, which is essential for data protection and workforce security.

Parallels RAS embraces advanced security protocols, supporting the latest TLS 1.3. This protocol offers enhanced security and performance for secure communications. Additionally, Parallels RAS is FIPS 140-2 compliant, meeting the gold standard for cryptographic hardware effectiveness and it is globally recognized for its security assurance.

Moreover, Parallels RAS enhances authentication security with built-in multi-factor authentication (MFA) and smooth integration with third-party MFA providers. This allows for more robust security measures than mere usernames and passwords, incorporating options like Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator, among others.

Parallels RAS also aids IT managers in streamlining user issue troubleshooting, offering easy access to data and reports. This functionality not only simplifies problem-solving but also bolsters post-activity analysis and aids in compliance efforts.

Discover certainty and peace of mind with Parallels RAS!

If you’re contemplating a switch from your current VMware environment, this blog post aims to assure you that there are excellent alternatives available.

Parallels RAS stands out as a great option, offering a match for your business needs while also reducing costs, saving time and effort, and simplifying operations.

To explore switching to Parallels RAS from VMware Horizon further, consider speaking with the Parallels team or experience Parallels RAS first-hand today with a full-featured free trial.

Resources

• Get your full-featured free trial of Parallels RAS: Link
• Tech Bytes: Learn more about Parallels RAS: Link
• Parallels Blogs: Read the latest information on Parallels RAS: Link

As the new year unfolds, many VMware customers are facing uncertainty regarding the future of their IT environments and support networks. 

Based on discussions with current and previous VMWare customers and partners, I identified three major themes of concern right now in early 2024. In no particular order (but all of utmost importance), VMware users are worrying about: :

• Future uncertainty
• Universal licensing models
• Costly maintenance.

Future uncertainty for VMware partners and customers

The acquisition of VMware by Broadcom has sparked widespread concerns within the industry, particularly regarding the latest news that Broadcom is to sell VMware’s EUC division to the highest bidder. They have also sent termination notices to VMware partners that are making below $500K in annual VMware revenue and taken top VMware accounts direct. This will have a significant impact on VMware customers, reducing the support they receive from partners and the channel alike.

The acquisition of VMware by Broadcom is a major development that has raised significant concerns in the tech industry. A key point of contention is Broadcom’s decision to sell VMware’s End-User Computing (EUC) division.

This move is seen as a strategic shift in the company’s focus, and it could have far-reaching implications for the EUC division’s future direction and performance.

Furthermore, the aforementioned decision to send termination notices to VMware partners generating less than $500K in annual revenue from VMware products is also raising alarm.

This action is likely to reshape the partner ecosystem, disproportionally affecting smaller partners. It raises questions about Broadcom’s long-term strategy for VMware and its commitment to a diverse and inclusive partner network.

For VMware customers, these developments could have serious repercussions. The reduction in the number of partners —especially smaller ones who might offer specialized or more personalized services —may limit the range of support options available to them. This reduced support might particularly impact those customers who rely heavily on these partners for technical support and customized solutions.

The overall situation highlights the challenges and uncertainties that can arise when a major player in the tech industry undergoes significant changes, especially in terms of mergers and acquisitions.

Universal licensing forces customers to make a choice

VMware customers who are exploring options like multi-cloud, hybrid environments, or transitioning to Azure Virtual Desktop face challenges stemming from complex licensing choices and software compatibility issues.

While VMware’s Universal Licensing provides support for hybrid configurations, it introduces additional costs, adding to the complexity and financial considerations for customers adapting to these advanced cloud solutions.

Expensive maintenance strains budgets and introduces security risks

The increasing costs associated with VMware’s licensing, combined with the necessity for specialized technical skills, significantly burden IT budgets. This financial strain can lead to challenges in adequately maintaining these systems.

Consequently, companies may face heightened security risks, as insufficient funding for proper upkeep could leave their VMware deployments vulnerable to threats and performance issues.

This situation underscores the importance of balancing cost management with the need for robust and secure IT infrastructure maintenance. To mitigate these apprehensions (and so much more), Parallels offers a promising solution in Parallels® RAS. It is a viable and potentially beneficial alternative for those seeking stability and efficiency in their IT operations.

What is Parallels RAS?

Parallels RAS is a flexible virtual application and desktop delivery solution that empowers organizations of all sizes to work securely from anywhere, on any device. The platform offers an agile, cloud-ready foundation and end-to-end security controlled by a centralized management console.

With Parallels RAS, you can leverage on-premises, hybrid, or public cloud deployments and integrate with existing technologies like Azure Virtual Desktop and Amazon EC2. With Parallels RAS, your organization gains the flexibility, scalability, and IT agility to quickly adapt to changing business needs.

Perhaps best of all, Parallels RAS offers a single, full-featured licensing model that includes 24/7 support and access to free training.

Parallels RAS: An excellent alternative for your VMware environment

Parallels was established in 1999 and has been a leader in the virtualization industry ever since, offering solutions for on-device, on-premises, and cloud platforms. Services include end-user computing, virtual client computing, and secure network access.

As a global leader in cross-platform solutions, Parallels enables millions of users to access applications and files on any device, anywhere, and at any time, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in technology use.

Parallels, with its expanding ecosystem and channel network, is well-positioned to support a broad range of customers, regardless of their size or industry. This growth in partnerships and distribution channels means that Parallels can cater to the diverse needs of individual users, small businesses, and large enterprises alike. Each customer segment benefits from tailored solutions that align with their specific requirements. This inclusive approach demonstrates the Parallels organization’s commitment to providing accessible, efficient, end-user computing, virtual client computing, and secure network access solutions.

By continuously expanding our ecosystem and strengthening our channel network, Parallels ensures that every customer, regardless of their size or technological needs, has access to the tools necessary for success in a rapidly advancing digital world.

“Prior to implementing Parallels RAS, our organization utilized Citrix Virtual Apps and Terminal Server (2012). We also looked at VMware Horizon, but the level of features offered by Parallels and the simplicity, ease of building it, and the fact we could implement the technology on our own encouraged us to proceed with Parallels RAS. We are very pleased to have chosen such a quality solution.”

-Neil Clarke, Infrastructure Lead, Platform Housing

No limits: The choice is yours for deployments and configurations

Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS) presents a comprehensive single-license model, equipped with a wide array of capabilities and features ready-to-use right out of the box. This versatility allows Parallels RAS to be effectively utilized in various environments and configurations.

In an on-premises setup, Parallels RAS can be implemented in either a single or multi-tenant configuration, catering to different organizational needs and sizes.

For organizations leaning towards cloud solutions, Parallels RAS offers full cloud experiences, deployable on public cloud Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) platforms. This flexibility extends to multi-cloud deployments as well, all manageable from a unified console, streamlining the management process and enhancing operational efficiency. Further underscoring its adaptability, Parallels RAS supports hybrid configurations, combining any of these deployment options. This capability allows for a more tailored approach that can meet specific IT requirements and strategies.

Moreover, Parallels RAS seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop. This integration supports both single and multi-session deployments, enabling a more versatile virtual desktop experience. Additionally, Parallels RAS offers support for Amazon AWS EC2, which widens the scope and enables choice and flexibility, allowing organizations to select the cloud service that best fits their needs.

These features collectively ensure that Parallels RAS removes typical restrictions associated with deploying IT strategies, offering an adaptable, efficient, and comprehensive solution for various IT needs and preferences.

Streamline maintenance with Parallels RAS

Parallels is engineered to streamline management processes, enabling it to be effectively managed by a smaller team and within fewer hours. The built-in efficiency begins with its unified management console, which centralizes the deployment, configuration, and management tasks, even across multiple sites and cloud providers. This single console approach simplifies the complexities typically associated with managing diverse IT environments.

To further ease the administrative burden, Parallels RAS includes QuickStart Wizards. These wizards guide administrators step-by-step through various processes such as configuring Session Hosts, publishing applications, integrating with Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), and setting up end-user connectivity.

Administrators can also manage FSLogix containers and settings entirely from this console, adding to the seamless experience. This intuitive guidance significantly reduces the time and effort required for configuration tasks.

Resource provisioning to users is another process built in to Parallels RAS. Administrators can consistently allocate resources via the same console, ensuring users have what they need for their tasks.

In addition to resource provisioning, the admin console facilitates secure access, load balancing, custom branding, and detailed reporting and monitoring. These features collectively contribute to a comprehensive management experience for IT departments.

The overall design of Parallels RAS, with its emphasis on a single-console management system, significantly simplifies the administrative experience. It offers a consistent and efficient way to deliver resources, especially in complex hybrid or multi-cloud scenarios. This design philosophy aligns with the goal of reducing the administrative workload while maintaining high efficiency and effectiveness in IT management.

“I would strongly recommend Parallels RAS because of its fast, flexible, and low maintenance deployment options, along with its granular security controls and overall ease of use for our end users. The HTML 5 client really eliminates all the headaches that came with the client support required of legacy VPN or VDI solutions.”

-Tyler Morgan, Chief Risk Officer, CISO Farmers & Merchants Bank

Discover why Parallels RAS is a great alternative to VMware — and try it free!

VMware users face uncertainty at the beginning of 2024 due to the Broadcom acquisition, plus the challenges of licensing complexities and high maintenance costs. Parallels RAS stands out as a strategic alternative.

The flexibility, ease of management, and comprehensive features of Parallels RAS offer a robust solution for businesses seeking efficient, secure, and cost-effective virtual application and desktop delivery.

Parallels RAS’s adaptability across various deployment models, coupled with its user-friendly management console and full feature set, position it as a compelling choice for organizations looking to navigate the evolving IT landscape with confidence and ease.

Become a Parallels Partner

Our mission is to empower businesses with seamless remote application and desktop delivery solutions. We provide a high-performance, secure, and user-friendly platform, enabling efficient access to applications and data from any device, anywhere. In these changing times, this mission becomes even more critical.

Here’s how we can help:

• Tailored IT solutions: Access Virtualization and Secure Network Access (SNA) solutions for your customers.
• 24/7 free IT support: Ensure a smooth transition to our solution with our round-the-clock support.
• MDF program: Foster business growth through our Market Development Fund (MDF) program.
• Free technical training: Enhance expertise with complimentary training and certifications.

Discover how you can become a Partner! Learn more.