How much does Microsoft RDS and VDI licensing cost?

The technology and architecture basis below RDS and VDI is complex, and the rules of the game are constantly evolving.

There is a vast matrix of possibilities!

When buying RDP-related licenses, you must work with a good advisor and thoroughly examine the Microsoft Product terms.

Before continuing with this blog post, read our blog post on the options and components of RDP. You should also check out part 2 on accessing and visualizing RDP environments.

Ready to start your journey with Parallels Secure Workspace? Download your free trial now.

The basics of RDS licensing

What is a CAL?

CAL stands for Client Access License in the context of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) licensing.

A CAL is a software license granting a user or device the right to access and use Microsoft RDS features and services on a Windows Server. Microsoft defines a CAL as a Client Access License or a license that gives a user permission to access the services of the server. You probably depend on the network server software to perform file and print-sharing functions if your workstations are networked. Therefore, a CAL or client access license may be necessary to access this software legally.

When do you need a Microsoft RDS (Remote Desktop Services) CAL?

You need a CAL when you use Remote Desktop Services (RDS). According to Microsoft, each user and device that connects to a Remote Desktop Session host needs a client access license (CAL).

What about an RDP connection to a VDI (without using RDS)?

An RDS CAL is unnecessary for an RDP connection to a VDI (without RDS).

That said, you will need a Windows VDA (Virtual Desktop Access) license if you have an RDP connection to a VDI (not using RDS).

This requirement is covered with Windows E3 and E5 licenses and can also be purchased on top of Windows if you do not have the E3 or E5 versions.

Windows E3 or E5 is the evolution of the former Windows SA (Software Assurance). The former is typically user-based, while the latter is device-based licensing.

As Microsoft mentions, Windows Virtual Desktop Access (VDA) is an authorization strategy that requires each device seeking access to a Windows virtual desktop in a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) to be licensed.

VDA is a feature of Windows E3 and E5 subscriptions, meaning that primary users of devices with such a license can access their virtual desktops at no extra charge.

In a special case where you need to access a Windows client (and thus a VDI scenario) by using an RDS platform, you would require both the Windows VDA license (as part of Windows E3 or E5 or a standalone license) as well as an RDS CAL.

The picture below illustrates this on a high level:

RDS and VDI licensing options at a glance.

RDS CAL licensing options

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s go one level deeper into RDS CAL licensing.

The RD license server

This role is mandatory for Microsoft to be set up in your RDS environment. The RD license server can be deployed on the RD Session Host for small deployments.

For larger deployments, a separate virtual machine (VM) is advised. CALs must be uploaded to the license server.

If an appropriate RDS CAL is available from a license server, the client can connect to the RD Session Host server, provided the RDS CAL is also issued to the client. From there, they can connect to the desktop or apps they want to use.

There are typically grace periods during which the license server will accept connections.

What types of RDS CAL exist?

You must choose between a user CAL and a device CAL when using RDS.

In Microsoft RDS, there are two main types of CALs:

Device CAL (Per device ER DEVICE)

Each specific device has a device CAL assigned to it, allowing any user who logs in to that device to access RDS services. It is a device-based licensing model, meaning one Device CAL is required for each device that needs access, regardless of the number of users who use that device.

• CALs are physically assigned to each device
• CALs are tracked by the license server
• CALs can be tracked regardless of AD membership
• Up to 20% of CALs can be revoked
• CALs cannot be over-allocated

User CAL (Per user)

User CAL is assigned to a specific user, allowing that user to access RDS services from any device. It is a user-based licensing model, meaning one User CAL is required for each user who needs access, regardless of how many devices they use to connect.

• CALs are assigned to a user in AD
• CALs are tracked by the license server
• CALs cannot be tracked within a workgroup
• You cannot revoke any CALs
• CALs can be over-allocated (breach w/ agreement)

Organizations typically choose between User CALs and Device CALs based on their specific needs and the licensing model that aligns with their usage patterns. It’s important to note that CALs are separate from the Windows Server licenses themselves.

In addition to the server license, they are required to ensure compliance with Microsoft’s licensing terms. Failure to have the appropriate CALs can result in licensing violations and potential legal consequences.

Comparison of RDS CALs (for Windows Server 2016)

Not upward compatible.

As I explained in our RDP introduction blog, RDS is tied to a Windows Server version; i.e., the RDS versions of Windows Server 2008R2 and 2016 are hardwired into each platform and are pretty different from each other in terms of functionalities and performance. Now comes the tricky part: the CALs you bought for a Windows Server 2012 deployment will not be accepted on a Windows Server 2016 platform if you didn’t purchase the Software Assurance. However, the 2016 RDS CAL is downwards compatible with RDS 2012.

According to Microsoft, any RDS license server can host licenses from all previous versions of Remote Desktop Services plus the current version of Remote Desktop Services.

However, upward compatibility is possible if Software Assurance has been purchased for the RDS CAL licenses. In that case, you can upgrade to the latest available version.

If Software Assurance was not purchased, new RDS CALs must be purchased.

The following table puts the theory into practice (in case of no Software Assurance):

Microsoft RDS CAL version compatibility.

Ready to explore what Parallels Secure Workspace can do for you? Get your trial download here, and check out Part 1 and Part 2 of our series explaining RDP.

In this post, I’ll explain the benefits and capabilities of Parallels RAS as they relate to RDS and AVD. Read on to learn more and access your free trial here.

Measuring performance in remote sessions

Collecting telemetry data about the performance inside a remote session provides insights into the required CPU, memory, disk I/O usage, and resources. It does, however, not always provide insight into the actual user experience.

Being able to see the actual perceived end-user experience is what makes the difference. EUC Scores do exactly that by measuring and quantifying the perceived end user experience in remote and digital workspaces, both on-premises and in the cloud. They combine both telemetry data and the recorded user experience in a single view.

This blog post highlights two specific features of Parallels RAS that provide additional benefits and an enhanced end user experience —accelerating the enumeration of local files and folders based on Parallels RAS Accelerated File Retrieval and accelerating access to redirected printers with Parallels RAS Universal Printing.

Get your free trial of Parallels RAS now!

Introducing the EUC Score test methodology

The EUC Score involves a range of criteria. As described on EUCScore.com, the scores are compiled based on the following elements:

“When interacting with virtual desktops or remote applications, there are several usability and performance aspects with significant relevance for most users: fast logon, short application load times, high refresh rate of the endpoint display, great graphics quality, unnoticeable user interface response time delays, support of all common media formats, and high session reliability. Only systems that come close to this ideal allow users to naturally emerge into the digital workspace through a range of endpoint devices with different capabilities and form factors.” –EUCScore.com

Benny Tritsch, Parallels VIPP and owner of EUCScore has conducted a series of tests to compare the perceived end-user experience of Parallels RAS (Remote Application Server) with the Native Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and the native Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) experience.

The Parallels RAS performance tests performed

This series of tests covers the user experience when accessing local files and folders from within a remote session and accessing local printers from within a remote session.

The sessions were conducted with Parallels RAS features enabled and without Parallels RAS features enabled (creating an experience similar to native Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)).

All tests were conducted using a session host server running in Azure based on Standard_D2s_v5 size, which contains 2 vCPU, 8Gb memory, and a 128Gb disk based on Premium SSD.

Accelerating enumeration of local files and folders

Parallels RAS includes a feature called Accelerated File Retrieval, which significantly speeds up the enumeration of local files and folders. This feature optimizes communication (compared to standard RDP) and adds caching of the folder structure.

This optimization applies to both the Parallels Client for Windows and the Parallels Client for macOS. It also applies to published desktops and published applications in both single-session and multi-session modes.

Parallels RAS makes access to local files 60 times faster

As I mentioned in the introduction, seeing the actual differences in the perceived end user experience is what makes test results and telemetry data come to life. The results of this test were visibly clear.

Without Parallels RAS Accelerated File retrieval, the user must wait over 60 seconds before getting proper access to all content inside folders stored on the local client.

With Parallels RAS Accelerated File retrieval, however, the same process takes about a second to complete.

Beyond the user experience, Parallels RAS Accelerated File retrieval can also enable higher user densities because fewer resources are consumed by the same user actions. When using a public cloud provider like Azure, it allows organizations to save on cloud consumption costs.

The EUC Score visualizer shows the results of these tests in an easy-to-understand, logical way by presenting the perceived end-user experience alongside telemetry data and recorded user activity, including options to zoom into specific quadrants and open side-by-side comparisons.

The screenshot below shows the EUC Score visualizer in action.

The table below contains links to all interactive test results published on eucscore.com.

Parallels RAS Accelerated File Retrieval vs the native RDS and AVD experience

The test results show that when comparing the native Remote Desktop Services (RDS) or Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) experience with Parallels RAS Accelerated File Retrieval, Parallels RAS clearly wins.

Some key takeaways include:

• Local files and folders are enumerated 60 times faster
• On average, the CPU Queue length is 50% less
• On average, the required disk IOPS is 25% less

More information on Accelerated File Retrieval and other user experience enhancements built into Parallels RAS can be found in this blog post.

Accelerated access to redirected printers

Parallels RAS offers Universal Printing technology, a comprehensive way of dealing with printing in remote sessions. It is designed to enhance the printing experience in virtualized and remote environments.

Some of its features include compression, multi-functional support, increased performance, and an optimized user experience. This test specifically measures the time it takes to get access to redirected printers upon reconnecting to a disconnected session, a very common scenario when dealing with published applications and desktops.

Parallels RAS makes access to redirected printers five times faster

I’ve established that to answer the question of whether a feature makes a noticeable difference in accelerating a specific action for the end user, investigating the perceived user experience is key. The result of a test of the printing features shows a significant difference in perceived user experience.

Without Parallels RAS Universal Printing getting access to eight printers takes 16 seconds upon reconnecting. With Parallels RAS Universal Printing, that same action takes less than three seconds.

In the scenario with Parallels RAS Universal Printing, fewer resources are consumed, which can lead to less user density and ultimately cost savings.

Beyond these aspects, Parallels RAS Universal Printing also overcomes issues in certain scenarios where third-party applications require printers to be available before launch. This scenario may result in specific third-party applications failing to launch or require a restart once the local printers are redirected again. Such occurrences significantly affect the overall user experience as perceived by end users.

The EUC Score visualizer presents this result comprehensively by showing the perceived end user experience alongside telemetry data and recorded user activity, including options to zoom into specific quadrants and open side-by-side comparisons.

The screenshot below shows the EUC Score visualizer in action.

The table below contains links to all interactive test results gathered and published on eucscore.com.

Parallels RAS Universal Printing vs the native RDS and AVD experience

The test results show that when comparing the native Remote Desktop Services (RDS) or Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) experience with Parallels RAS Universal Printing, Parallels RAS clearly wins.

With Parallels RAS:

• Printers are reconnected 2 times faster.
• The peaks in disk read bytes are 89% lower
• The peaks in disk write bytes are 27% lower
• The peaks in disk IOPS are 82% lower

More information on this and all the other enhancements that Parallels RAS Universal Printing provides can be found in this blog post and by watching this video.

Take advantage of these and many other features included in Parallels RAS to enhance the user experience of virtual applications and desktops through a unified workspace.

Remote Desktop vs. RemoteApp 

Parallels Secure Workspace with a mix of RemoteApp and Remote Desktop-based services, including:

1. Bob50 deployed as RemoteApp.
2. Windows 10 deployed with BOB50 as a local app.

Opening a published RemoteApp application in Parallels Secure Workspace.

Opening the same application in a published Remote Desktop in Parallels Secure Workspace.

How do end users access their VDI or RDS environment?

Example: Connecting to RDP on a Windows 10 device.

From the client side, using an RDP client is the most used access method by far.

This mechanism is available from Microsoft on Windows, but there are other versions available on other platforms, such as Linux and MacOS). This client needs to be installed on the end user’s device.

For most end users, the initial setup and connection will require help from the IT department. Furthermore, it requires additional security measures to be in place, as discussed in this article about the WannaCry ransomware attacks.

Example: Connecting to RDP on a Windows 10 device.

In the past few years, access to virtual apps and desktops via HTML5 without needing dedicated client software has become increasingly popular.

In this case, the browser becomes a very efficient client.

Because nearly all devices are equipped with browsers these days, browser-based access doesn’t require the installation or management of additional software.

The latest version of RDP comes with RDWeb, which offers HTML5 capabilities. This is only available on the most recent version of RDP and therefore is not available on versions older than Windows Server 2016. Read more on HTML5 as the client of the future in this blog post.

Since the beginning, Parallels Secure Workspace has been based on using the browser as the sole client, delivering RDP in HTML5 via the proprietary Parallels Secure Workspace HTML5 Gateway.

Discover how Parallels Secure Workspace can add layers of value to your RDP deployments. Start your free trial now!

The typical components of an RDP deployment

Until Windows Server 2019 was released, Remote Desktop Protocol was closely tied to the version of Windows Server used. For example, this meant if your applications were running on Windows Server 2008, you would be bound to the capabilities (and limitations) of this version of RDP.

RDS itself is the combination of several components or roles, and not all roles are required in every situation. In some cases, the components or roles involved will require additional infrastructure to be made available.

However, for a simple VDI connection (without RDS), you don’t need all these roles. Here is the overview:

1. Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH)

RDSH enables a server to host both RemoteApp programs and session-based desktops (Remote Desktop). Users can connect to the RD Session Host servers in a session collection to run programs, save files, and use resources on those servers.

Users can access the Remote Desktop Session Host server by using the Remote Desktop Connection client or by using RemoteApp programs. Note: for VDI, you don’t require RDSH.

2. Remote Desktop Virtualization Host (RDVH)

RDVH enables to connect to virtual desktops by using RemoteApp and Desktop connection. It cuts costs by enabling the management of desktops from one place and reduces the need for advanced client hardware. Users can access their desktops from anywhere, enabling remote work and increasing flexibility. RDVH also simplifies data backups and disaster recovery.

3. Remote Desktop Connection Broker

This functionality allows users to reconnect to their existing virtual desktop, RemoteApp programs, and session-based desktops. It enables even load distribution across RD Session Host servers in a session collection or across pooled virtual desktops in a pooled virtual desktop collection. It also provides access to virtual desktops in a virtual desktop collection. The Connection Broker is not required for very simple deployments.

4. Remote Desktop Gateway

A capability that enables authorized users to connect to virtual desktops, Remote-App programs, and session-based desktops over a private network or the Internet. Basically, it enables secure access from a public network into a private network—more specifically to the session hosts, brokers, and VDIs.

5. Remote Desktop Web Access

Remote Desktop Web Access enables users to access RemoteApp and Desktop Connection through the Start Menu or through a web browser. RemoteApp and Desktop Connection provide users with customized views of RemoteApp programs, session-based desktops, and virtual desktops.

For web browser-based access, you can picture a webpage that displays published applications and desktops. When the user clicks to open, it will traditionally trigger the locally installed RDP client to launch and connect.

6. Remote Desktop Licensing

Remote Desktop Licensing enables a server to manage the RDS client access licenses (RDS CALs) that are required for each device or user to connect to a Remote Desktop Session Host server. RDS CALs are managed using the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager application.

See how Parallels Secure Workspace adds layers of value and security on top of RDP

Parallels Secure Workspace is a unified workspace and a workspace aggregator. It offers HTML5 browser-based access to Windows applications and desktops, Linux-based desktops, web and intranet applications, SaaS applications, and files.

For Windows-based applications and desktops that are deployed in server-based computing, Parallels Secure Workspace serves as a layer on top of RDP, adding security and value on top of the RDP foundation.

Aggregate access

Parallels Secure Workspace doesn’t just provide access to Windows applications and desktops, but also to files, intranets, web applications, SaaS, Linux desktops and apps, and more.

Enhanced security

Naked RDP is vulnerable to cyber-attacks. PSW can minimize these risks — multi-factor authentication, SSL encryption, and usage auditing are built-in.

Rich HTML5 experience

Parallels Secure Workspace has perfected HTML5 access over the years with useful additions such as a virtual printer, support for function keys, and in-app downloading.

Open API and multi-tenant

In contrast to RDP, Parallels Secure Workspace is multi-tenant and fully Open API-based. Making it perfect for ISVs, MSPs, and CSPs.

Collaboration functionalities are baked-in

With Parallels Secure Workspace, you can share access to application sessions and share documents of any size in a secure and controlled manner.

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