Jeff Fisher. Cloud-hosted Desktops: The Smart, Low-Risk Way to Enter the Cloud

Cloud Computing Conference - Cloud Slam 2009.
Abstract. When people talk about cloud computing in the enterprise, they are primarily referring to IT virtualizing server workloads and moving them to the cloud, since in most cases, those applications can be accessed over a network from a service provider’s data center as easily as they can from an enterprise’s own data center. But there are huge obstacles with this approach, probably the most challenging of which is data security. Most server-side applications are inextricably bound to their data tier, which means when you shift these workloads you have to relocate the data, as well. Most IT managers do not feel comfortable storing corporate information in someone else’s data center. This concern is precisely what makes virtual desktops a much better, albeit somewhat counter-intuitive, way for enterprises to get started with cloud computing.

Consuming desktops as a service (DaaS) via the cloud is a low-risk/high-reward proposition that enables enterprises to keep their data secure within their own infrastructure while reaping the cloud’s cost and flexibility benefits. And, it gives enterprises a way to get their feet wet with a cloud approach so they can make smart decisions about whether, when and how to move server-side applications to the cloud. In this session, Jeff Fisher, senior director of strategic development at Desktone, will explore why cloud-hosted desktops are the logical starting point, how to adopt this model, and how the experience can ease the way to a more complete cloud approach.

Video of the session: