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When Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Isn’t the Best Fit: 5 Alternative Scenarios to Consider

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Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a robust virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution that ticks a lot of boxes for businesses. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on your goals, budget, or technical needs, other options might suit you better. Here, we explore five situations where AVD might not be the ideal choice and suggest alternatives that can offer a better fit for your specific use case.

1. For ISVs Seeking a Lightweight Solution

Alternative: GO-Global

Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) often need a cost-effective and straightforward way to deliver Windows applications. AVD can feel like overkill for these needs, requiring significant infrastructure and management overhead. GO-Global by GraphOn is one of the main Azure alternatives listed here, and for good reason. It is a streamlined alternative that lets ISVs host Windows applications on the cloud or on-premises without needing full desktop virtualization.

Why GO-Global Works:

  • Simple Deployment: No need to rewrite application code for delivery.
  • Cost-Effective: Pricing starts at just $4.20/month per concurrent user, with volume discounts available.
  • Low Complexity: It bypasses the need for a full VDI setup, reducing infrastructure requirements and operational headaches.

This makes GO-Global a prime choice for ISVs aiming to scale app delivery without breaking the bank or overcomplicating their setup.

2. When You Only Need Specific App Access

Alternative: RemoteApp Hosting Solutions

Not every scenario calls for full desktop virtualization. If you’re only looking to provide users with access to a few key applications, AVD’s desktop-centric approach might introduce unnecessary overhead. RemoteApp hosting solutions are designed to deliver individual applications instead of entire desktops, keeping things lightweight and focused.

Why RemoteApp Solutions Work:

  • Efficiency: Only the applications users need are streamed, reducing resource usage.
  • Lower Costs: Less complexity often means reduced licensing and infrastructure expenses.
  • User-Friendly: Applications behave like they’re installed locally, offering a familiar experience.

For organisations that only need specific tools accessible remotely—like accounting software or CRM systems—this approach can save time and resources.

3. When Budget Constraints Are a Priority

Alternative: Amazon WorkSpaces

For businesses needing a virtual desktop solution but struggling with AVD’s associated costs, Amazon WorkSpaces provides a compelling alternative. It offers a pay-as-you-go model, ensuring you only pay for what you use.

Why Amazon WorkSpaces Works:

  • Flexible Pricing: Options include hourly and monthly plans, helping manage costs based on usage.
  • Customisation: Choose between Windows and Linux desktops, depending on your team’s requirements.
  • Scalability: Easily add or remove users without committing to high upfront expenses.

This can be a lifesaver for startups or small businesses that need to stretch their budgets while still accessing virtual desktop functionality.

4. For On-Premises Needs Without Cloud Dependency

Alternative: Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops

While AVD is primarily a cloud-based solution, some organisations require on-premises options for reasons such as data sovereignty, regulatory compliance, or legacy system integration. Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops offers a hybrid approach, allowing deployment on-premises, in the cloud, or as a mix of both.

Why Citrix Works:

  • Flexibility: Deploy in your data centre or a public cloud—or both.
  • Enhanced Features: Includes advanced tools for performance monitoring and application delivery.
  • Compliance-Friendly: Helps meet stringent data residency and security requirements.

This solution is particularly useful for industries like healthcare, finance, or government, where sensitive data handling is non-negotiable.

5. When You Need Bare-Metal Performance

Alternative: Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS)

For workloads requiring high performance, such as graphic design, engineering, or video editing, AVD’s virtualisation layers can sometimes introduce latency or resource bottlenecks. Parallels RAS offers streamlined app and desktop delivery with minimal overhead, ensuring users get the best possible performance.

Why Parallels RAS Works:

  • Optimised for Speed: Delivers apps and desktops efficiently with reduced latency.
  • Cross-Platform Support: Works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
  • Simplified Management: Centralised dashboard makes it easy to oversee deployments.

For resource-intensive tasks, having a lightweight yet powerful option like Parallels RAS ensures your team can work efficiently without compromise.

Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Every organisation is unique, and no single VDI solution can cover every scenario. While AVD is a fantastic option for many businesses, it’s essential to evaluate whether it aligns with your specific needs. Factors like budget, technical requirements, deployment flexibility, and user demands should guide your decision.

By considering alternatives like GO-Global for ISVs, RemoteApp hosting for lightweight application delivery, or Citrix for hybrid on-premises setups, you can tailor your virtualisation strategy to your organisation’s exact goals. Taking the time to explore these options ensures you’re not only investing wisely but also empowering your team with tools that truly fit their workflow.

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