VMware Launches Horizon Desktop as a Service

VMware (VMW) launched Horizon DaaS (desktop as a service), a new cloud-based desktop service that delivers virtual desktops running on VMware vCloud Hybrid Service. Last fall at VMworld 2013 the company announced that it acquired leading DaaS company Desktone and its platform for service providers. At its VMware Partner Exchange event last month, VMware partnered with companies like Google to give businesses access to secure, cloud access to Windows applications, data and Desktops on Google Chromebooks.

"Our experience working with customers deploying DaaS the last several years have shown that the majority prefers a blended environment with both on-premise and cloud desktops," said Sumit Dhawan, vice president and general manager, desktop products, End-User Computing, VMware. "However, very few solutions in the market can deliver a seamless end-user experience across multiple clouds like VMware Horizon DaaS."

Multiple Platforms, Seamless Experience

The new DaaS solution gives customers the ability to blend public cloud desktops and on-premise VMware Horizon View private cloud desktops for a seamless end-user experience.  Instead of just Remote Desktop Service (RDS), VMware Horizon DaaS supports both types of desktops in addition to full Windows Client Desktops. It supports enterprise mobility by enabling end-user access to full Windows desktops and applications through the cloud using desktops or laptops (PC or Mac), zero/thin clients, Chromebooks or mobile devices (Android or iOS).

"Businesses today are betting big on the cloud and Chromebooks used with web applications like Google Apps for Business fit the way we work today," said Caesar Sengupta, vice president, product management, Google. "VMware Horizon™ DaaS helps companies transition to the cloud while supporting existing Windows applications. Chromebooks are secure, manageable and cost effective, making them a great option for businesses with the impending end of support and security updates on Windows XP."

Customers can choose between three unique virtual desktop deployment models from a single vendor: Off-Premise public cloud desktops, on-premise private cloud desktops, and Hybrid Cloud Desktops. The DaaS offering will be delivered by partners and compatible with other VMware-based cloud services.

VMware Horizon DaaS can be sold the same way as on-premise VMware virtual desktops with a standard SKU, and partners can retain the billing relationship with customers. In addition, cloud service providers can deliver value added services around the desktops to increase market opportunity.

VMware Horizon DaaS is available immediately from VMware or through select channel partners and resellers in the United States with global expansion expected later in the year.