Understanding Citrix Bleed

Citrix Bleed is a buffer overflow vulnerability residing in specific configurations of NetScaler ADC and Gateway. Its malicious potential lies in enabling attackers to bypass critical security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and steal sensitive information, including credentials and user session data. This essentially grants them unfettered access to your internal systems and resources, paving the way for data breaches, ransomware attacks, and lateral movement within your network.

Timeline of Citrix Bleed

• August 2023: The Citrix Bleed vulnerability is silently exploited as a zero-day, with reports suggesting its existence since late 2022.
• October 10, 2023: Citrix releases security bulletin and security patches to address CVE-2023-4966.
• October 17, 2023: Citrix confirms active exploitation of unpatched appliances.
• October 18, 2023: CISA adds CVE-2023-4966 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog.
• November 2023: Increased attacks attributed to Citrix Bleed, targeting government agencies and major corporations. These include Boeing, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Comcast, Xfinity and more than 60 credit unions and healthcare orgs. U.S. cyber officials and the FBI warn that both nation-states and criminal groups are now targeting Citrix Bleed.
• December 2023 – Present: Cybercriminals, ransomware groups, and other threat actors continue to leverage the vulnerability, highlighting the urgency of patching.

The Scope of the Bleed

The Citrix Bleed exploit affects several versions of NetScaler ADC and NetScaler Gateway. Organizations relying on these appliances for secure remote access, application delivery controllers, and load balancing are at risk. The potential impact stretches far beyond data breaches, encompassing:

• Financial losses: Ransomware attacks, hacks, data exfiltration, and business disruption can lead to significant financial damage.
• Reputational damage: When hackers get access to your sensitive data and main systems, resulting in public exposure of security vulnerabilities, this can severely damage your brand image and customer trust. Even if you have proactive information disclosure around the vulnerability, the damage is often already done.
• Operational disruptions: Compromised systems and networks can cripple your operations and functionality, leading to downtime and productivity losses.

Mitigation – Patching and Beyond

Immediate action is paramount. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Patch all vulnerable Citrix NetScaler ADC and Gateway appliances immediately. Do not delay! Refer to Citrix’s official KB articles for detailed patching instructions.
2. Scan your network for signs of compromise. Look for unusual activity, unexplained logins, and unauthorized data access.
3. Review your security posture and access controls. Implement additional security measures to mitigate the risk of exploitation even after patching.
4. Educate your users about cybersecurity best practices. Train your employees on phishing awareness and password hygiene to minimize the risk of human error.

Protecting Against Future Bleeds

Citrix Bleed serves as a stark reminder of the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape and how bad actors can utilize these vulnerabilities to hijack your systems. To be adequately prepared, consider these practices:

• Maintain a proactive vulnerability management program. Regularly scan your systems and applications for vulnerabilities and prioritize patching based on severity.
• Implement a layered security approach. Combine network security, endpoint protection, and intrusion detection/prevention systems to create a robust defense perimeter.
• Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities. Subscribe to security alerts and advisories from credible sources like CISA and CERT.

Citrix Bleed is a serious vulnerability not to be ignored. By taking immediate action, patching your systems, and adopting a proactive security posture, you can effectively control the bleeding and safeguard your organization against cyberattacks.

Additionally, remember to:

• Utilize vulnerability scanning tools and penetration testing: These proactive measures can help identify and address vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.
• Implement strong authentication mechanisms: MFA should be mandatory for all access points, particularly those exposed to the internet.
• Segment your network: Minimize the potential damage from an attack by isolating critical systems and resources.
• Have a clear incident response plan: Prepare for the worst and establish a documented plan for responding to security breaches.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your organization remains resilient against even the most sophisticated cyberattacks. Let’s work together to stop the bleeding and protect our digital ecosystems.

Beyond the Patch: Rethinking Secure Remote Access in a Post-Bleed World

While patching remains crucial in addressing immediate threats like Citrix Bleed, it’s important to recognize that it’s merely a bandage on a larger wound. The vulnerability’s emergence underscores the inherent risks associated with traditional remote access solutions, particularly those reliant on complex on-premise infrastructure. This is where exploring alternative approaches, such as Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) platform, becomes critical in building a more resilient security posture.

Cameyo’s Zero Trust security model stands in stark contrast to the vulnerabilities exposed by Citrix Bleed. Instead of placing trust in the network perimeter, Cameyo reduces the attack surface by virtualizing applications and delivering them directly to users’ endpoints through a secure browser session. This approach offers several key advantages:

• Reduced Attack Surface: By removing applications from the network, Cameyo eliminates the potential for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities like Citrix Bleed to gain access to your internal systems.
• Zero Trust Access: Every user and device is continuously authenticated and authorized before accessing applications, ensuring only authorized individuals have access to sensitive data.
• Simplified Management: Cameyo’s cloud-based platform simplifies application management and eliminates the need for complex on-premise infrastructure, reducing the burden on IT teams.
• Enhanced Endpoint Security: Applications do not run locally on endpoints – instead they are delivered as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) – further minimizing the risk of malware or ransomware infections.

In the wake of Citrix Bleed, Cameyo’s VAD solution offers a compelling alternative for organizations seeking a more secure and agile approach to remote access. By embracing Zero Trust principles and eliminating the reliance on vulnerable on-premise infrastructure, Cameyo empowers organizations to:

• Minimize the risk of future security breaches: With the attack surface significantly reduced, even zero-day vulnerabilities like Citrix Bleed become less impactful.
• Improve user experience: Secure access from any device, anywhere, fosters a more flexible and productive work environment.
• Reduce IT costs: Simplified management and cloud-based delivery translate to lower operational expenses.

The Citrix Bleed vulnerability serves as a wake-up call for organizations to re-evaluate their remote access and virtual desktop strategies. By looking beyond traditional solutions and embracing innovative approaches like Cameyo’s VAD platform, organizations can build a more robust and resilient security posture, ensuring business continuity and protecting sensitive data in today’s ever-evolving threat landscape.

Remember, patching vulnerable systems is essential in the immediate aftermath of Citrix Bleed, but true long-term security lies in adopting proactive strategies and embracing Zero Trust principles. Consider Cameyo’s VAD solution as a potential step towards a more secure and future-proof remote access architecture.

Note that this blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional security advice. Please consult with Cameyo or another vendor with security expertise such as Mandiant or Google’s BeyondCorp Enterprise. To book a call with a Cameyo security & virtualization expert, click here. We’ve helped hundreds of organizations make the switch from legacy remote access technologies to our cloud-native, zero trust platform, and we’re here to help you in any way we can.

If you’re still looking for more information on Cameyo’s approach to Zero Trust security, check out our post on why you should eliminate VPNs, our guide to RDP security, and our approach to browser isolation.

The post Citrix Bleed: A Deep Dive for IT Leaders appeared first on Cameyo.

What’s Being Sold: The EUC business unit encompasses a range of virtualization products, including VMware Horizon Cloud (DaaS), VMware Workspace ONE (unified endpoint management), Dynamic Environment Manager, and App Volumes (application layering). These EUC solutions provide users with access to desktops and applications from any device, anywhere.

Echoes of Citrix: This news comes on the heels of the recent acquisition of Citrix, another major player in the virtual desktop space. That acquisition has caused significant disruption for Citrix customers, with reports of new pricing models, degraded support, and uncertainty about the future of the products. Both the Citrix and VMware acquisitions have resulted in significant layoffs, as well, leading to many of their customers doubting the level of support and innovation the organizations will maintain moving forward.

There’s a Trend in Legacy VDI & DaaS: The acquisitions of Citrix and VMware, coupled with the spin-out of Frame from Nutanix, paint a clear picture: legacy VDI and DaaS solutions are facing significant challenges. This turmoil highlights a broader shift towards Virtual App Delivery (VAD) solutions, which offer a more agile and cost-effective way to deliver applications to users.

Alternatives to VMware’s EUC Products: Unlike VDI and DaaS, which require Microsoft Windows-based virtual desktops, VAD solutions actively eliminate the need for Windows virtual desktops while still enabling you to deliver any app to any device. This eliminates the need for costly and complex infrastructure and simplifies management.

Cameyo: A Leading Alternative for VMware Customers: Cameyo is the pioneer and leader in the VAD market. We enable you to deliver all of your apps – Windows, Linux, SaaS, and internal web apps – to any device either from the browser or as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). Our platform provides a seamless migration path for VMware customers looking to continue their digital transformation, allowing you to leverage your existing investments while transitioning to a more modern and efficient solution. With Cameyo, you can:

• Maintain flexibility: Continue using your existing VMware infrastructure for as long as needed, while having a much more cost-effective and modern VAD solution in place to migrate users to as VMware licenses expire. Cameyo also gives you the ability to user our fully-hosted version (in Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure) or self-host Cameyo in any cloud (Google Cloud, AWS, Azure, Oracle Cloud, IBM Cloud, etc.), hybrid, or on-premises data center of your choice.
• Reduce costs: Eliminate the need for expensive virtual desktops and simplify management of your digital workspace.
• Improve performance: Deliver applications faster and more reliably with Cameyo’s high-performance architecture.
• Enhance security: Benefit from Cameyo’s robust Zero Trust security model.
• Increase user productivity: Provide a better digital employee experience with any anywhere workspace that gives your users seamless access to their apps, regardless of their location or device.

The Future of VDI & DaaS: The future of VDI and DaaS is uncertain, but one thing is clear: organizations are looking for more agile, cost-effective, and secure solutions. The rise of VAD solutions like Cameyo is a direct response to this demand. By embracing VAD, organizations can ensure they are prepared for the future of work and deliver the applications their users need, when and where they need them, across a wide variety of use cases.

Get Started with Cameyo Today: If you’re looking for a modern and secure alternative to VMware’s EUC products, book a demo with Cameyo today and we’ll set up a demo environment for you within 15 minutes. Or if you’d rather dive in a test it for yourself, start a free trial.

The post Broadcom to Spin-Off VMware EUC Business: What Are Your Options? appeared first on Cameyo.

A Tale of Two Desktops

Microsoft, eager to provide an integrated workspace on Microsoft Azure to help enable hybrid and remote work, has perplexed its users by offering two distinct products named Azure Virtual Desktop.

1. Azure Virtual Desktop Classic (AVD Classic): Operating outside the Azure Cloud and detached from the Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), this version with a separate management GUI isn’t aligned with typical Azure virtual machines (VMs). It is not part of the Azure Portal and isn’t addressable with the Azure Resource Manager (ARM), Microsoft’s main deployment and management service for its cloud.
2. Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD): Fully integrated with Microsoft Azure, this version can run Windows Server-based operating systems and is more adapted to multi-session workloads. This used to be called Windows Virtual Desktops (WVD), for those keeping track.

Then, there’s also Windows 365 Cloud PCs, another virtual desktop infrastructure/remote desktop offering from Microsoft that aimed to provide virtual access to desktop apps. While this solution majorly operates on AVD, its endpoint-focused experience contrasts with AVD’s more rigid, enterprise-centric design.

Decoding the Decision

Why retire AVD Classic? This move aligns with Microsoft’s attempts to create a more unified operating system experience. It represents what Microsoft sees as a step forward in terms of streamlined workloads and improved scalability for remote desktop services (RDS).

But Wait, Aren’t Virtual Desktops Dying?

Understanding Virtual Desktops (VDI)

Over three decades ago, VDI transformed the landscape of organizational desktop computing. At its core, VDI virtualizes the entire Windows-based desktop environment, encapsulating the operating system, applications, and user configurations. The remote access capabilities mean that users could now retrieve their familiar desktop environment from anywhere.

However, VDI introduced several challenges:

1. Resource Intensiveness: Hosting and maintaining virtual machines for every user, typically within on-premises data centers, demands vast computational resources, escalating both capital and operational costs.
2. Complexity: The setup, management, and regular maintenance of VDI demand specialized skills, with IT teams shouldering responsibilities for every virtual desktop.
3. Scalability Limitations: Adapting VDI infrastructure to changing demands or unanticipated spikes in remote usage can be both cumbersome and expensive.

The Move to Desktop as a Service (DaaS)

In light of VDI’s limitations, DaaS emerged as the next logical evolution. Marrying Windows virtual desktop solutions with cloud capabilities, DaaS seemed to promise enhanced flexibility and scalability.

Benefits of DaaS:

• Scalability: DaaS supports rapid scaling to meet changing workforce demands without heavy infrastructure investment.
• Cost Savings: By shifting infrastructure responsibility to third-party providers, DaaS models enable a reduction in capital expenditures.
• Accessibility: With an internet connection, DaaS ensures users can access their desktops from virtually anywhere.

However, DaaS isn’t without its legacy challenges:

1. Resource Utilization: Just like VDI, DaaS necessitates full virtual desktop instances for every user, leading to similar resource inefficiencies.
2. Operating System Dependency: DaaS often ties users to specific operating systems, undermining application accessibility across different platforms.

Rethinking the Virtual Desktop: The Rise of Virtual App Delivery (VAD)

Amidst the cloud migration trend and growing demand for more efficient, user-centric solutions that provide a better desktop experience, the traditional virtual desktop paradigm itself is undergoing a seismic shift. The focus is now on providing all employees with access to business applications without the constraints of the underlying operating system. Enter Virtual App Delivery (VAD) technologies like Cameyo.

VAD advantages:

1. Application-Centric Approach: Instead of entire desktops, VAD solutions, like Cameyo, emphasize individual application delivery, optimizing resource usage.
2. Platform Agnosticism: VAD ensures application accessibility across multiple platforms, freeing organizations from OS dependencies.
3. Simplicity and Efficiency: Compared to VDI or DaaS, VAD offers quicker setup and deployment. Cameyo’s VAD can be hosted anywhere – be it cloud, hybrid, or on-premises settings.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: VAD’s app-focused virtualization offers a more cost-efficient alternative to full virtual desktops, all while providing a high-performance solution with optimization for a better end-user experience.

Reasons for the surge in VAD adoption include agility, cost savings, enhanced user experience, and simplified management.

How Companies are Ditching the Desktop

Hundreds of enterprises have made the switch from virtual desktops to Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery solution, and more are making the same strategic decision everyday. Here are a few use cases as examples:

Village Hotels

“Our strategy as a business was to reduce cost and complexity while increasing our flexibility and productivity. We couldn’t justify making a sizable six-figure investment in refreshing the underlying infrastructure needed to run Citrix, which would have dramatically increased the complexity of our environment rather than streamlining it,” said Dan Morley, Head of IT Infrastructure and Service at Village Hotels.

“We chose Cameyo over Citrix and Azure Virtual Desktop for one key reason – Citrix and AVD were far too complex, pure and simple. And it’s not just the initial complexity of deployment, it’s also the ongoing management. We needed something that could be deployed quickly, and something that wouldn’t require tons of resources to manage moving forward. That was Cameyo,” said Morley. 

“It was a breath of fresh air to see how easy it was to deploy apps to ChromeOS via Cameyo, and to see how simple it is to manage long-term,” said Morley.

Community Hospital Corp. (CHC)

“After years of frustration and realizing that none of the traditional virtual desktop providers would work for us, we gave up on the idea. Until one day, we started talking to the Google Cloud team, and they introduced us to Cameyo,” said Brian Stopinski, Corporate IT Operations Director, CHC.

“We were still in the mindset that we needed to deliver a full Windows desktop to give our people access to their apps. So at first, I completely discounted Cameyo and didn’t think it would work for us. But we decided to do an evaluation based on Google’s recommendation,” said Stopinksi. “In our initial evaluation, I was shocked by how small the footprint was of Cameyo’s solution. All of the servers, load balancers, and other infrastructure you have to manage with Windows desktops – we didn’t have to deal with any of that with Cameyo.”

“When I first started my conversation with Cameyo, my mentality was that we had to deliver full Windows desktops. It’s simply the byproduct of 25 years of experience with Windows desktops, and I think a lot of people are still stuck in the same mentality that I was,” said Stopinski. 

“It wasn’t until I saw Cameyo in action that it fully clicked that I did not need to present the entire Windows desktop. I realized that the desktop brings a lot of inherent baggage with it. There’s unnecessary stuff the user doesn’t need which actually complicates their workflow. There’s all this white noise on the Windows desktop that doesn’t make them more productive.” 

“With Cameyo, I finally realized that the user doesn’t need to see the Windows OS. As an organization, we always ask ‘What is the value add?’ whenever we’re evaluating something new. So I applied that question to something old – Windows desktops – and it became obvious that the added value was zero.” 

“In fact, the real value add is the elimination of the Windows desktop, because I don’t have to deal with all the complexity and all of the security concerns that Windows desktops bring. I can also deliver a lower cost solution because I don’t have to license Windows OS, I don’t have to license a Windows Terminal Server, I don’t have to support all of that infrastructure just to deliver the Windows desktop,” said Stopinski. 

In Conclusion

Navigating the myriad of virtual desktop solutions from Azure Virtual Desktop’s shifting landscape to emerging technologies and advancements like Cameyo’s VAD can be tricky. But it doesn’t have to be! Here at Cameyo, we’re here to help you every step of the way – or, if you want to test it out before talking to anyone first, we’ve got you covered there, too.

To see for yourself how Cameyo can help your organization access all of your apps – including Windows, Linux, SaaS, and internal webs apps – on any device while eliminating virtual desktops, you can start a free trial to test it yourself or schedule a demo and we’ll give you a personal walkthrough and show you case studies that are relevant to your business. 

The post Confused by Azure Virtual Desktop Changes? Here’s Your Guide appeared first on Cameyo.

Chromebook Plus is a new category of ChromeOS devices that come with the following guaranteed hardware specs:

• CPU: Intel Core i3 12th Gen or above, or AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series or above
• RAM: 8GB+
• Storage: 128GB+
• Webcamera: 1080p+ with Temporal Noise Reduction
• Display: Full HD IPS or better display
• Operating System: ChromeOS

But it’s not just a series of new specs – Chromebook Plus devices also come with a host of new features. From pro level video editing, AI-based features like Magic Eraser in Google Photos, to a host of new services that make your professional life easier – here’s an in-depth look at the advantages that Chromebook Plus offers to businesses and how Chrome OS’ integration with Cameyo amplifies those capabilities even more.

1. Performance Unparalleled

At the heart of the Chromebook Plus is the promise of increased power. With faster processors plus double the memory and storage, multitasking becomes a breeze. From running complex data analytics to simple document editing, businesses can rely on Chromebook Plus to deliver seamless performance. Paired with a Full HD IPS (or better) display, Chromebook Plus devices also guarantee clear visuals, essential for presentations or graphic-intensive tasks.

2. Video Conferencing Elevated

In the era of remote work and global collaboration, video conferencing has become an essential tool. New Chromebook Plus laptops feature enhanced 1080p webcams with temporal noise reduction to ensure high-quality video feeds, and the built-in AI elevates the experience further by optimizing lighting and cancelling background noise. Whether it’s for internal team meetings on Google Meet or client calls on Zoom, Chromebook Plus guarantees a pristine video calling and collaboration experience.

3. Apps for Every Business Need

With Chromebook Plus you can bring a wide variety of projects to life with built-in Google apps, as well as creative powerhouses like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express and LumaFusion. Advanced graphical projects are easily managed, and with promotional offerings like three months of Adobe Photoshop free, businesses can test out these tools without immediate commitment. But wait – what about all the Windows or internal web apps your business relies on? See below for more – but spoiler alert, we’ve got you covered. 

4. AI-Powered Productivity

The on-device AI in Chromebook Plus devices not only enhances video calls but is set to redefine content creation. Whether drafting emails, creating social media posts, or even designing custom wallpapers, the built-in AI capabilities will streamline tasks, saving time and effort. The integration of AI capabilities, especially with Google Workspace’s Duet AI, hints at future collaborative tools that can revolutionize business workflows.

5. Reliable Data Access with File Sync

The Chromebook Plus ensures that your important files from Google Drive are always at your fingertips. Whether online or offline, the new File Sync feature keeps your data accessible, making it an ideal solution for professionals on the move.

6. Future-Proofing with Continuous Enhancements

Chromebook Plus isn’t just about today’s advantages. Google’s commitment to updating and improving Chromebook Plus devices means that businesses investing in these devices today can be assured of reaping benefits tomorrow. From generative AI backgrounds for video calls to content drafting assistance, there’s a lot on the horizon.

While Chromebook Plus brings numerous advantages to the table, businesses aiming for a holistic adoption of ChromeOS devices need to ensure comprehensive app accessibility, including vital Windows apps. This is where Cameyo steps in.

ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo

The only thing more exciting that realizing that Chromebook Plus makes it easy for your organization to adopt business-ready ChromeOS devices is knowing that you can do so while maintaining access to ALL of the apps your people need to be productive. 

Transitioning to ChromeOS doesn’t mean you need to leave behind your essential Windows applications (because, frankly, you can’t leave many of those apps behind without disrupting business). Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery solution has been bridging this gap for five year, allowing businesses to fully embrace ChromeOS devices. But even more importantly, back in August we announced that Cameyo has officially been integrated into ChromeOS and launched “ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo.”

Here are the key benefits of this in-depth integration of Cameyo into ChromeOS:

• Simplified App Delivery – “Deploying apps with ChromeOS and Cameyo is remarkably simple. Session management, load balancing, failover, etc. – it’s all handled by Cameyo, so all we had to focus on was the apps we wanted to publish. It was very easy to get set up, and ongoing management is a breeze – especially when compared to traditional virtual desktop approaches.” – Mario Zúñiga, IT Director, Digital Workplace at Fortune 500 manufacturer Sanmina
• Reduce TCO by 54% – After speaking with organizations that made the switch from traditional virtual desktops to Virtual App Delivery with ChromeOS and Cameyo, analyst firm Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG) released a recent Economic Validation study that found ChromeOS and Cameyo provide a 54% reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to virtual desktops.
• Enhanced Security – “One of the biggest draws of migrating to ChromeOS was its security. This integration, and the fact that Cameyo has a zero-trust security model baked in at its core, adds additional layers of security so that we can confidently enable our employees to work from anywhere, on any device, with the utmost security.” – Mario Zúñiga, IT Director, Digital Workplace at Fortune 500 manufacturer Sanmina
• The Best User Experience – “It’s clear that Cameyo and the ChromeOS team have worked closely together on integration because the user experience is just seamless. There’s no difference between the experience people used to have with local apps and the apps that are running in Cameyo on ChromeOS. All of the feedback from our users has been incredibly positive.” – Dan Morley, Head of IT Infrastructure and Service at Village Hotels

For a detailed look at how Cameyo is revolutionizing ChromeOS app delivery, check out the official announcement.

In addition to the Google and Cameyo partnership providing your business with the peace of mind of a deeply integrated solution set, many of the major ChromeOS device manufacturers (OEMs) are also starting to bundle the ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo solution into the sale of their Chromebooks. For example:

• Acer – Check out this blog post to learn more about a bundle of Acer’s ChromeOS devices with Cameyo
• LG – Check out this announcement to learn more about how LG is bundling the Cameyo Virtual App Delivery solution with it’s ChromeOS Flex-certified devices

And there are many more to come, as more ChromeOS device manufacturers look to eliminate the app gap and enable major enterprises to adopt Chromebooks while still being able to access all their apps. 

Conclusion: A Comprehensive Solution for Modern Businesses

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, businesses need solutions that are future-proof, efficient, and versatile. Chromebook Plus, especially when paired with the ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo solution, offers a comprehensive package. It ensures businesses are equipped with top-tier hardware and software capabilities while also guaranteeing access to all essential legacy applications, including legacy Microsoft and Windows apps. It’s a combination that is hard to beat for businesses looking to stay ahead when it comes to reducing costs, providing zero trust security, and delivering the best digital employee experience possible. 

To see for yourself how ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo can help your organization access all of your apps – including Windows, Linux, SaaS, and internal webs apps – on Chromebook Plus devices, you can start a free trial to test it yourself or schedule a demo and we’ll give you a personal walkthrough and show you case studies that are relevant to your business. 

Eligible Devices

As of this blog post’s writing, here are the list of Chromebook Plus eligible devices: 

The post The Business Benefits of Chromebook Plus and Cameyo appeared first on Cameyo.

Understanding Virtual Desktops (VDI)

More than 35 years ago, desktop virtualization – Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) – revolutionized the way organizations manage and deliver desktop computing environments. In essence, VDI allows for the virtualization of a user’s entire Microsoft Windows-based desktop experience, including the operating system, applications, and user settings. Users can access their virtual desktops remotely from any device with internet connectivity, essentially providing a familiar desktop environment regardless of their physical location.

While VDI-based remote desktops offered several benefits, such as centralized management and enhanced security, it also came with inherent challenges:

1. Resource Intensiveness

VDI requires substantial computing resources to host and maintain virtual desktop instances/virtual machines for each end user, typically on-premises in their own data centers. This can strain an organization’s IT infrastructure and result in considerable capital and operational expenses.

2. Complexity

Setting up and managing VDI environments can be complex and time-consuming, often demanding specialized expertise. IT teams must handle tasks like provisioning, maintenance, and updates for every virtual desktop.

3. Scalability Limitations

Scaling VDI infrastructure to accommodate fluctuating user demands can be cumbersome and costly. Many organizations found it challenging to adapt their VDI environments to rapid growth or unexpected surges in remote work.

The Move to Desktop as a Service (DaaS)

Recognizing the limitations of traditional VDI, businesses began embracing Desktop as a Service (DaaS) – sometimes referred to as “cloud desktops” or “cloud-hosted desktops.” DaaS combines Windows virtual desktop solutions with cloud computing, offering the promise of greater flexibility and scalability. With DaaS, third-party providers manage the underlying cloud infrastructure, freeing organizations from the burden of hardware and software maintenance.

Benefits of DaaS:

1. Scalability: DaaS allows businesses to scale their virtual desktop deployments rapidly, adapting to changing workforce needs without significant infrastructure investments.
2. Cost Savings: By outsourcing infrastructure management, organizations can reduce capital expenditures and shift to a predictable, pay-as-you-go model.
3. Accessibility: DaaS enables users to access their desktops from virtually anywhere with an internet connection, enhancing mobility and remote work capabilities.

However, despite these advantages, DaaS inherits some of the legacy issues associated with traditional VDI:

1. Resource Utilization

DaaS is a cloud service still relies on the provision of full virtual desktop instances for each user, which can lead to resource inefficiencies similar to on-premises VDI.

2. Operating System Dependency

DaaS solutions often tie users to specific operating systems, limiting the flexibility of accessing applications on various platforms.

Rethinking the Virtual Desktop: The Rise of Virtual App Delivery (VAD)

As organizations increasingly migrate to the cloud and seek efficient, user-centric solutions that provide more productive digital workspaces, the concept of the traditional virtual desktop is being re-evaluated. Instead of delivering full desktop environments, many are discovering that users primarily need access to their business applications, regardless of the underlying operating system, on any device or endpoint.

This paradigm shift has given rise to Virtual App Delivery (VAD) technologies like Cameyo, which offer a fresh approach to meeting the needs of today’s digital workforce:

1. Application-Centric Approach

VAD solutions, such as Cameyo, focus on delivering individual applications rather than full desktops. This approach optimizes resource utilization, as only the required applications are virtualized and delivered to users.

2. Platform Agnosticism

With VAD, users can access applications on various platforms, including Windows, ChromeOS, macOS, Linux, and even mobile devices. This platform agnosticism liberates organizations from OS constraints.

3. Simplicity and Efficiency

VAD technologies typically offer quicker setup and deployment times compared to traditional VDI or DaaS. This simplicity reduces the IT overhead associated with managing virtual desktop environments. VAD services like Cameyo are also available as either fully-managed services in the cloud, or can be self-hosted by an organization in any cloud, hybrid, or on-premises environment. For more about Cameyo’s fully-managed service in Google Cloud, check out this post.

4. Cost-Effective

By virtualizing and delivering only the necessary applications, VAD can be more cost-effective than providing full virtual desktops, especially for organizations looking to optimize resource usage.

Why Organizations Are Embracing Virtual App Delivery (VAD)

The growing adoption of Virtual App Delivery (VAD) technologies like Cameyo can be attributed to several compelling reasons:

1. Agility and Scalability

VAD solutions are inherently more agile and scalable, enabling organizations to respond rapidly to changing business needs without the complexity of traditional VDI or the resource constraints of DaaS.

2. Cost Savings

VAD reduces infrastructure costs and offers a more predictable pricing model. Organizations can allocate resources more efficiently and avoid over-provisioning.

3. Enhanced User Experience

VAD solutions provide users with a seamless application experience, irrespective of the device they use. End users get all the functionality of their desktop-based software, without the issues of virtual desktops. This enhances productivity and minimizes user training and support requirements.

4. Simplified Management

Managing VAD environments is more straightforward and less time-consuming than overseeing complete virtual desktop deployments. This allows IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance tasks.

Conclusion

The world of virtual desktops has evolved significantly, from traditional VDI to cloud-based DaaS, and finally to the application-centric approach of Virtual App Delivery (VAD). As organizations increasingly prioritize efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, many are re-evaluating the necessity of full virtual desktops.

For IT decision-makers seeking a forward-looking solution, it’s clear that the virtual desktop, while valuable in certain contexts, is not always the most efficient choice. Virtual App Delivery technologies like Cameyo offer a compelling alternative, creating a better user experience where employees simply get seamless access to the applications they need, regardless of the device or operating system. With VAD, organizations can embrace the cloud era with confidence, knowing they are equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic and digitally-driven workforce. To see for yourself the difference between virtual desktops and VAD, click here to get access to a free trial.

The post Virtual Desktops in the Cloud – and Your Alternatives appeared first on Cameyo.

The Difference Between Virtual App Delivery and Virtual Desktops

Cameyo is a Virtual App Delivery platform that grants users direct access to all of their applications – including Windows, Linux, SaaS, and internal web apps – from the cloud without requiring a full Windows virtual desktop environment (like those from Microsoft’s Azure Virtual Desktop, Citrix, VMware, Nutanix, etc.). On the other hand, traditional VDI and Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solutions provide complete virtualized desktop experiences, replicating the entire operating system with applications, files, and settings delivered from virtual machines hosted in the cloud or on-premises servers. Most Virtual Desktops were not designed as native cloud services, which often results in multiple layers of complexity that reduce scalability.

Some VDI providers have begin to re-position their services as “cloud desktops”, but that is often a misnomer, as these are often not natively cloud-based services. Instead, they are the same traditional remote desktops that are complex to manage, have significant security issues, and deal with issues like latency that degrade the end-user experience.

Luckily, for most companies and use cases, virtual desktops have been rendered obsolete by Virtual App Delivery. Your people can use any device and operating system they want, and they can still access all of their apps either in the browser or as PWAs without having to sign into a virtual Windows 10/Windows 11 desktop environment first.

Eliminating the Virtual Desktop

Virtual App Delivery is superior to traditional VDI in several aspects:

1) Enhanced Security: With Virtual App Delivery, applications are delivered independently, reducing the attack surface compared to full virtual desktop environments. IT decision-makers can apply granular security measures to each application, mitigating the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. And Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery platform is built with a Zero Trust security model at the core to further reduce the attack surface by eliminating the need to expose firewall and server ports to the open internet.

2) Cost-Effectiveness: Virtual App Delivery eliminates the need for costly virtual desktop infrastructure, resulting in reduced hardware and maintenance expenses. The seamless application delivery model saves valuable IT resources and optimizes budget allocation. And simple, all-inclusive per-user per-month pricing makes Virtual App Delivery solutions like Cameyo more cost-effective by an average of 70% compared to virtual desktops.

3) Flexibility: Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery provides the flexibility for users to access applications from any device or endpoint with internet connectivity. And while Cameyo’s fully-hosted solution runs in Google Cloud, it also provides the flexibility to self-host Cameyo in any cloud or in your own on-premises datacenter. Cameyo’s flexibility also extends to your existing technology investments – preventing against the vendor lock-in that comes with many virtual desktop solutions.

4) Simplicity: Compared to traditional VDI setups, Virtual App Delivery is less complex to deploy and manage. IT administrators can streamline application delivery, updates, and user permissions, reducing the burden of maintaining full virtual desktop environments.

VAD Instead of VDI on GCP

As a Google Cloud partner, Cameyo leverages the robustness and security of GCP, ensuring a powerful and reliable application delivery experience. With two options available, companies can choose between fully-hosted or self-hosted solutions:

1) Fully-Hosted Service: Cameyo’s fully-hosted service runs on GCP, with all infrastructure expertly managed by the platform. This option offers a hassle-free experience for organizations seeking a turnkey solution without the burden of infrastructure maintenance.

2) Self-Hosted Service: For companies desiring greater control and customization, Cameyo can be self-hosted in their existing GCP instance or in their own on-premises data center. This option caters to specific security and compliance requirements while benefiting from Cameyo’s cutting-edge technology.

Performance and High Availability with GCP and Cloud Orchestration

Cameyo’s integration with Google Compute Engine API ensures optimum performance and high availability for Virtual App Delivery through:

1) Elastic VM Orchestration: Through the Google Cloud Compute Engine API, Cameyo provisions VM instances on-demand, allowing for elastic scaling to meet growing user demands. This flexibility ensures smooth application delivery, even during peak usage periods.

2) Efficient Snapshot Management: Capture, duplicate, and manage VM snapshots effortlessly with Cameyo and the Google Cloud Compute Engine API. Organizations can quickly deploy consistent images worldwide, enhancing the application delivery experience for users across different regions.

Secure Transmission with Google Cloud DNS API

Cameyo prioritizes security in its Virtual App Delivery solution through integration with Google Cloud’s DNS API, including Automatic DNS Name and SSL Certificate Provisioning. This enables the platform to provide DNS names and SSL certificates to orchestrated VM instances, ensuring secure data transmission without the complexity of manual SSL setup and management.

Cloud Tunneling for On-Premises Access

Cameyo’s innovative Cloud Tunneling functionality provides secure remote access to on-premises virtualization backend servers, providing secure access to apps without the need for VPNs. Cloud Tunneling establishes secure connections between end-users and servers without the need for VPNs or firewall adjustments. This streamlined access maintains network integrity while providing a smooth user experience.

Conclusion

Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery on GCP revolutionizes the way companies access and deploy applications. By eliminating the need for virtual desktops, organizations can provide their workforce with seamless application access from anywhere, reducing TCO. The platform’s integration with Google Cloud Platform ensures enhanced security and flexibility, resulting in the best end-user experience. As validated by the Economic Validation study by Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG), companies can expect a 54% reduction in TCO compared to traditional virtual desktop solutions (download a free copy of the ESG report here). With Cameyo, the future of VDI on GCP is one where you can eliminate the virtual desktop altogether. With Google Cloud and Cameyo you can unlock the true potential of remote and hybrid work while simplifying app deployment, enhancing security, and empowering your workforce. Want to see it for yourself? Start your free trial here, or schedule a consultation call & demo here. 

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Understanding the Basic Components of Azure Virtual Desktop Pricing

Azure Virtual Desktop pricing consists of several components that contribute to the overall cost. It’s crucial to understand these elements to accurately estimate the expenses involved in the Azure cloud service. The primary components include:

1. Virtual Machine (VM) Costs: AVD leverages Azure Virtual Machines (Azure VMs) to host virtual desktops. VM and desktop costs and the Azure resources needed are determined by factors such as the VM type, the region in which it’s deployed, the scalability needed, and the VM’s size and performance capabilities.
2. User Access Licenses (CALs): CALs are required to access AVD (or any remote service hosted on Windows servers). They come in two types: per-user and per-device CALs. Per-user CALs allow users to access their virtual desktops from any device, while per-device CALs enable multiple users to share a single device. So the number of users in your organization is one factor in overall cost, as is determining upfront how many of your end-users operate on shared machines (for example, call center workers that may share the same desktop device with other workers on different shifts).

Microsoft Licenses for Azure Virtual Desktops and Associated Costs

To leverage Azure Virtual Desktop, certain Microsoft licenses are required. These licenses play a pivotal role in determining the pricing structure. Here are the primary license types:

1. Windows 10 Enterprise Multi-Session: This license enables multiple users to run Windows 10 on a single VM, optimizing resource workloads and reducing costs.
2. Microsoft 365 E3/E5: These licenses offer certain productivity and security features, including access to Office apps, advanced security capabilities, and collaboration tools. The choice between E3 and E5 depends on the organization’s specific needs.
3. Remote Desktop Services (RDS) CALs: RDS CALs are required for each user or device accessing the AVD environment. They provide access to remote sessions and virtual apps.
4. Microsoft Azure Hybrid Benefit: Organizations with existing on-premises licenses may be eligible for cost savings by utilizing the Azure Hybrid Benefit. This benefit allows customers to apply their existing licenses towards AVD deployments.
5. Azure Active Directory – Azure Active Directory P1 is available as a standalone or included with Microsoft 365 E3 for enterprise customers and Microsoft 365 Business Premium for small to medium businesses.

Azure Infrastructure Costs Associated with AVD

In addition to the VM and license costs, Azure infrastructure costs should also be considered. These costs include:

1. Storage Costs: AVD requires storage to store user profiles, OS images, and application data. Azure Storage pricing depends on factors such as capacity, redundancy options, and data transfer.
2. Network Costs: Network egress charges may apply when users access data or applications from the AVD environment. Organizations should consider potential network bandwidth requirements and associated costs.

Persistent vs. Non-Persistent Virtual Desktops and Impact on Pricing

Azure Virtual Desktop provides two deployment options: persistent and non-persistent virtual desktops. Understanding these options is crucial as they have implications on pricing.

1. Persistent Virtual Desktops: These desktops retain user-specific settings, applications, and data across sessions. Persistent desktops are ideal for users who require a personalized experience but may have higher storage costs due to individual disk requirements.
2. Non-Persistent Virtual Desktops: Non-persistent desktops do not retain user-specific changes between sessions. They offer a fresh desktop experience with each login. Non-persistent desktops are more cost-effective in terms of storage, as they utilize shared images and require less disk space per user.

As you can see, it is anything but simple to determine what the true cost of Azure Virtual Desktop will be for your organization – and the same holds true for much of the virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and Desktop as a Service (DaaS) market. But by understanding the components of AVD pricing, the necessary Microsoft licenses, Azure infrastructure costs, the functionality required, and the distinction between persistent and non-persistent desktops, it can be a bit easier to make informed choices and effectively manage expenses.

Remember, if you’re serious about looking into Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), then it’s essential to consult with Microsoft documentation and licensing experts to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on Azure Virtual Desktop pricing and licensing policies. But if you’re looking to unlock major productivity gains in your organization while optimizing costs, Virtual App Delivery (VAD) may be your best bet.

The Rise of Virtual App Delivery

While Azure Virtual Desktop is a popular choice for delivering virtual desktop experiences, recent advancements in Virtual App Delivery (VAD) have opened up new possibilities for organizations that are looking to provide their people with access to all their apps – Windows, Linux, SaaS, and internal web apps – on any device while enabling better security, a better user experience, and a dramatic reduction in cost. VAD allows users to access all of their applications remotely from any device, regardless of the operating system, eliminating the need for an entire virtual desktop infrastructure. This approach offers increased flexibility, reduced complexity, and significant cost savings.

Cameyo: A Pioneer in Virtual App Delivery

Over the past five years of serving hundreds of organizations (from Fortune 500s to hospitals to financial institutions to SMBs and everything in between), here at Cameyo we helped establish the Virtual App Delivery (VAD) category as an alternative to legacy virtual desktop solutions. With Cameyo, businesses can leverage their existing infrastructure and securely deliver all of their applications to users on any device – all without the need for complex virtual desktop deployments or VPNs. Cameyo’s user-friendly interface and streamlined management tools empower IT teams to efficiently deliver applications while reducing costs and complexity and significantly increasing security.

The TCO Benefits of Cameyo

Back in May, the analysts at Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG) completed a three-month-long economic impact analysis where they interviewed organizations that have made the switch from traditional virtual desktops (VDI and/or DaaS) to Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) solution. In this study, the four categories examined were: licensing, hardware, operational, and subscription fees.

ESG’s model calculated the expected savings when deploying and maintaining Cameyo’s VAD solution compared to the cost of deploying traditional VDI. The model found that the annual costs for implementing Cameyo are far less when compared to those of traditional VDI. According to ESG’s economic analysis, an organization could recognize a 54% reduction in TCO by utilizing Cameyo instead of VDI. As part of this reduction in TCO, organizations can realize the following:

• 75% reduced license/application costs – Traditional application deployment methods require the purchase of a separate license for each device the application is installed on. Cameyo’s process of providing access to applications on a per-named-user basis helps companies reduce their licensing and application costs by enabling each user to access their applications on any device, without needing a license for each device. Cameyo’s practice of delivering applications also reduces IT overhead and indirect support and maintenance costs.

• 82% reduced hardware costs – VDI typically has increased infrastructure requirements, whereas Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) platform is cloud-native, reducing hardware costs.

• 53% reduced operational costs – Conventional VDI solutions require additional technical support and resources to manage the infrastructure. Cameyo’s cloud-native solution eliminates many of the tasks typically required to operate a virtual desktop, such as configuring applications for each personal desktop, provisioning, patching, and updating those devices, which reduces the number of resources needed to manage the IT environment over time.

• 35% lower subscription fees – Cameyo’s public cloud-based delivery, simplified management, and flexible pricing allow for lower subscription fees. Cameyo representatives are able to assist organizations in choosing the correct subscription based on their needs.

Conclusion

Determining the cost of Azure Virtual Desktops can be challenging, given the complexity of Microsoft’s licensing policies. However, by carefully considering your organization’s requirements and leveraging Microsoft’s on-demand pricing calculators, you can gain a clearer understanding of the associated costs. Additionally, exploring alternatives like Virtual App Delivery, with Cameyo as a leading example, can provide more flexibility, reduced complexity, and significant TCO benefits.

To get a simple and straightforward quote for the cost of Cameyo (which is a simple per-user, per-month pricing model), simply answer a couple of questions here and we will send you the details right away. Or if you’d rather see Cameyo in action before looking at pricing, schedule a demo with us here and within 30 minutes we’ll give you a full demo and help you evaluate if Virtual App Delivery is the right approach for your organization. In our experience, it often is (no matter how large the organization or which vertical you’re in) – but if Cameyo is not a fit, we’ll let you know right away and will even help point you in the right direction for another solution.

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What is Zero Touch Provisioning?

Zero Touch Provisioning is a process that allows IT teams to remotely and automatically configure devices for end users without any physical intervention. With ZTP, IT administrators can eliminate the need to manually set up each device, reducing the time and effort required for deployment. By leveraging automation and predefined configurations, ZTP ensures a seamless and consistent experience for end users when they first log into their devices.

How Does Zero Touch Provisioning Work?

Zero Touch Provisioning works by leveraging preconfigured settings and automated workflows to provision devices remotely. IT teams can utilize tools and technologies that enable device imaging, remote configuration, and software deployment. By defining standardized settings, policies, and software requirements in advance, IT administrators can streamline the device setup process. When a device is powered on and connected to the network for the first time, it automatically retrieves the necessary configurations and applications, enabling users to start working without delay.

A Typical Zero Touch Provisioning Process

A typical ZTP process involves several key steps that enable IT teams to remotely configure and deploy devices to end users. Here’s an overview of the steps involved in a typical ZTP workflow:

1. Preparing the Device: Before the device is sent to the end user, IT teams ensure that it is properly prepared for Zero Touch Provisioning. This may involve verifying hardware compatibility, IP address, performing initial configurations, logging the device’s serial number, and installing any necessary firmware updates or drivers.
2. Defining Configuration Profiles: IT administrators create standardized configuration files that encompass various config settings, policies, and software requirements. These profiles serve as templates for device provisioning and include details such as network settings, security configurations, application installations, and user preferences.
3. Device Shipment: Once the new devices are prepared and the configuration profiles are defined, IT teams ship the devices directly to the end users. The devices are typically pre-registered and associated with the appropriate configuration profiles in the ZTP system.
4. Device Activation: Upon receiving the device, the end user powers it on and connects it to the network. The device then initiates the Zero Touch Provisioning process by automatically contacting the ZTP server or cloud-based provisioning service.
5. Configuration Retrieval: The ZTP server or cloud-based service responds to the device’s request and retrieves the appropriate configuration profile based on the device’s unique identifier. The profile includes all the predefined settings and policies required for the user’s role or department.
6. Configuration Application: The device applies the retrieved configuration profile, automatically applying specific configurations for network settings, security policies, and software installations (if needed). This step ensures that the device is provisioned according to the organization’s standards, reduces the opportunity for human error, and provides a consistent and secure working environment.
7. Application Delivery: If utilizing a virtual app delivery solution like Cameyo’s VAD, the device will automatically show each user the necessary applications based on the user’s role or department. This enables users to access their required applications immediately after signing in for the first time, eliminating the need for manual software installations.
8. User Onboarding: With the device now provisioned and applications available, the end user completes the login process and gains access to their personalized and fully functional workspace. They can begin working right away without any additional configuration or setup.
9. Post-Provisioning Management: IT teams can remotely manage and monitor the provisioned devices using centralized management tools. This includes applying updates, pushing new policies, performing remote troubleshooting, ensure devices and their operating systems remain secure and up-to-date, and even returning devices to their factory default configuration/basic configuration if a user leaves the company.

By following a typical Zero Touch Provisioning process like the one outlined above, IT teams can streamline device deployments, reduce manual effort, and provide a seamless experience for end users, enabling them to start working productively from the moment they receive their devices.

But, what if there was an even easier way…

Virtual App Delivery and Zero Touch Provisioning

The whole purpose of ZTP is to simplify the process of getting devices into your users’ hands so that they can be productive, without physical device configuration. Also, as organizations approach their next device refresh cycles, many are realizing that they can dramatically reduce cost and increase security by moving to cloud-first devices like ChromeOS or IGEL and/or by moving to a BYOD model. Regardless of the approach, these organizations need a secure way to deliver all the apps their people need to be productive from anywhere, regardless of device – and all without requiring IT to physically provision those devices in advance.

Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) solution empowers IT teams to provide end users with instant access to all the applications they need to be productive – regardless of the device’s operating system. With Cameyo’s VAD solution, IT administrators can ensure that users have access to their essential applications immediately upon logging into their devices (after authentication via the organization’s SSO provider of choice). This eliminates the need for manual software installations and updates, allowing users to dive into their work without delays.

In particular, Cameyo has a solution called Cameyo for Cloud Workers which addresses the needs of modern organizations by allowing them to issue cost-effective cloud-first devices or allow end-users to utilize their own devices, all without sacrificing security or their people’s access to critical applications. With Cameyo for Cloud Workers:

• Whether the user is on a cloud-first device or their own personal device,  Cameyo enables them to simply sign-in with credentials provided to them by IT, leveraging their SSO of choice. 
• When the user signs in, all their apps appear immediately as Cameyo Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) with no need for IT to touch the device. 
• Cameyo provides the user with ultra-secure access to all the apps they need to be productive in a way that protects sensitive data and locks the user into the session, regardless of device. 
• And with Cameyo for Cloud Workers, organizations can take advantage of a concurrent pricing model that enables them to pay only for what’s being used. 

Cameyo for Cloud Workers is specifically available as a self-hosted solution, meaning organizations can host it in their own data center or in any cloud service provider of their choice (like Google Cloud, AWS, Azure, etc.). Self-hosting in their own data center enables them to keep everything behind their own firewall, if needed,

What are the Advantages of Zero Touch Provisioning?

Zero Touch Provisioning offers numerous advantages for IT teams, including:

1. Time and Cost Savings: With ZTP, IT administrators can provision multiple devices simultaneously, significantly reducing the time and effort required for deployment. The automation eliminates the need for manual configurations and on-site visits, resulting in cost savings for the organization.
2. Enhanced Efficiency: ZTP enables IT teams to streamline their device deployment process by eliminating manual interventions. IT administrators can focus on more critical tasks while ensuring a consistent and error-free device setup experience for end users.
3. Scalability and Standardization: Zero Touch Provisioning allows IT teams to scale their device deployment efforts effortlessly. By establishing standardized configurations, policies, and applications, organizations can ensure consistency across all devices, improving security and compliance.
4. Remote Deployment: ZTP enables IT teams to provision devices remotely, regardless of their physical location. This capability is especially valuable in today’s remote work environment, where employees may be spread across various geographical locations.

To highlight the advantages of enabling Zero Touch Provisioning with Cameyo, QAD – a Cameyo for Cloud Workers customer – says:

“The combination of ChromeOS and Cameyo gives us the ability to eliminate the provisioning of user laptops and drastically improve the security of our end user devices,” said Scott Lawson, Director, IT Security, and Architecture at QAD. “Because of how integrated Cameyo is with ChromeOS and the Google Admin console, we’re able to publish apps in minutes and push those to the appropriate users so that when they log in, the apps are there waiting for them. It’s seamless and secure.”

Conclusion

Zero Touch Provisioning has become an indispensable tool for IT teams seeking to streamline device deployments and enhance user productivity. By leveraging virtual app delivery solutions like Cameyo, organizations can further simplify the ZTP process and optimize productivity on their devices. To learn more, check out https://cameyo.com/news/cameyo-for-cloud-workers/

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When talking about context switching when it comes to human productivity, people are usually referring to the amount of time people lose when switching between different tasks throughout their workday. Research shows that there’s a significant cost of context switching, in that it takes an average of 9.5 minutes to get back into a productive workflow after task switching. This is why so many time management and productivity experts suggest that, to truly achieve a state of deep work you should focus on a single task until it is complete. For bigger projects that will take a long time, people suggest things like breaking the task up with the Pomodoro technique, using time blocks, or the bundling of similar tasks to facilitate more focused work and tackle your to-do list.

Now, when we talk about context switching as it relates to software and computing, that refers to the disruption that is caused when someone has to switch from one environment to another in order to complete a new task. One common example of the cost of context switching when it comes to computing is the use of traditional virtual desktops environments.

The use of virtual desktops (whether legacy VDI or DaaS) skyrocketed during the pandemic as orgs needed a way to give their people access to the apps & data they need to do their work from any device, anywhere. In some cases those orgs needed to send their people home with whatever devices they could find (or afford), and in other cases they needed their people to work on their own personal devices. The issue that orgs then have is that you may have people on multiple different operating systems like Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, and more – but those people still need access to the business-critical apps and data needed to do their jobs.

By implementing virtual desktops, this creates a bifurcated experience in which your team members may have some applications installed locally on their device, and they also likely access a lot of their apps via SaaS – but then they have to log into a separate virtual desktop environment to access their business-critical apps (like your ERP, CRM, EHR, etc.). When a user has to stop working in one environment and then start a new process or application in another environment, that context switching takes a toll on your employees’ productive time and leads to attention residue that makes it harder for your people to get their focus time back.

Context Switching and its Impact on Digital Transformation

As part of their digital transformation efforts, many organizations are looking to move more of their infrastructure and applications to the cloud. Similarly, there is an accelerated demand for cloud-first operating systems (OSs), like ChromeOS, due to the cost, manageability, and security benefits. In fact, analyst firm IDC recently released a study titled “Accelerating Enterprise Adoption of Cloud-First Operating Systems with Virtual App Delivery (VAD)” addressing that trend.

But at the end of the day, the traditional virtual desktop approach to delivering apps is inherently problematic for the long-term adoption of cloud-first OSs like ChromeOS because it requires context switching that degrades the user experience & disrupts productivity. 

For example – on ChromeOS, users access most of their apps as SaaS directly from Chrome or as PWAs. But when they need to access legacy Microsoft Windows, Linux, or internal web apps – the traditional virtual desktop model forces users to log in to a separate Windows OS-based environment. This context switching results in an awkward, bifurcated experience that (at best) annoys the user or (at worst) confuses them. In either case, it is an interruption to their workflow that distracts them from important tasks.

The context switching that virtual desktops force is one where users must switch back and forth between a modern, cloud-first computing model and the legacy model of a traditional Windows desktop. Virtual desktops and their reliance on the legacy Windows OS will always anchor organizations to the past, making it harder to fully adopt the future of computing. 

Eliminating Context Switching for Cloud-First Operating Systems like ChromeOS

Cameyo has believed since day one that the future of computing is the elimination of the traditional desktop (the Windows OS, and therefore all legacy virtual desktops, too). Cameyo pioneered the Virtual App Delivery (VAD) market to make virtualization invisible to the end user, simply letting them access all of their apps the way they always have, as if they were installed locally, regardless of device. And we do so by eliminating the virtual desktop altogether and simply letting users access their apps from any device/operating system with no change to their behavior.

Cameyo is the only virtualization solution that eliminates context switching on cloud-first operating systems like ChromeOS. For example, with ChromeOS and Cameyo, a user simply logs into their ChromeOS device and can access all of their apps either from the browser or as PWAs. Even legacy Windows, Linux, and internal web apps can be deployed as Cameyo PWAs on ChromeOS, so the end user simply clicks on the app icon in the taskbar/shelf and the app launches in its own window. To the end user, Cameyo doesn’t exist – they simply click an app icon from the ChromeOS taskbar and work the way they’ve always worked (rather than logging into a Windows OS-based virtual desktop before launching their apps).

The Future of Computing, Unlocked

The world is increasingly aware of the security, manageability, and cost benefits of cloud-first operating systems – especially ChromeOS. Accelerated adoption of ChromeOS is not an awareness problem – it’s a legacy roadblock problem. Many enterprise IT leaders know that ChromeOS would yield many benefits for their org, but they are held back because they either think that they simply cannot access Windows (and other) apps on ChromeOS, or they think that the only way to do so is with virtual desktops which, in addition to the context switching problem, introduce cost, complexity, and security issues. 

ChromeOS is the modern approach to computing that today’s cloud-first enterprises need. But organizations’ perceived need to adopt legacy virtual desktops in order to gain access to their critical apps on ChromeOS – forcing their people to switch back and forth between the future and the past – will continue to impede adoption. 

ChromeOS and Cameyo (a Chrome Enterprise Recommended virtualization solution) unlock a future of computing where organizations no longer have to give any thought to which OS is required to run their apps. Orgs can now embrace the world’s most secure, manageable, sustainable, and cost-effective operating system and simply know that their people will be able to access all of their apps with absolutely no change to their behavior. As a result, a cloud-first operating system like ChromeOS can become the future of computing, with no need for users to ever switch back to the past.

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Since its initial release in 1983, QuickBooks products have branched into industry-specific solutions that are tailored to specific business needs. As cloud-based services matured, the software’s developer, Intuit, launched an online version of QuickBooks that has also seen widespread adoption by organizations that aren’t wedded to the desktop version.

But what if you could use the full desktop version of QuickBooks on any device, without needing to install it, just like the SaaS version? What if you didn’t have to sacrifice functionality and features to get the full flexibility of the online version?

First, let’s review how QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online differ

QuickBooks online (also called QBO) has a few key differences with the desktop software. The most obvious one has to do with pricing. Whereas QBO, like many SaaS products, is a monthly subscription with pricing tiers that are graduated according to number of users or features, QuickBooks desktop charges an annual fee (or annual subscription, if you prefer to see it that way). 

More importantly, the functionality can vary greatly between the two product categories. Intuit seems to target QBO toward small business owners and distinguishes it through features like mobile app integration. QuickBooks Desktop software, by contrast, is actually split out into three different products—QuickBooks Pro Plus, Premier Plus and Enterprise—that offer industry-specific features and more advanced capabilities.

However, as their name suggests, the variants in the QuickBooks Desktop line are not optimized for remote access or mobile devices. This makes these QuickBooks products more PC-oriented, whereas QBO’s cloud-based and mobile app capabilities require an Internet connection.

Those differences raise an important and frequently asked question: Which QuickBooks version is best suited to your business?

Hard choices: QuickBooks Online vs Quickbooks Desktop

For organizations that can fulfill their bookkeeping requirements with QBO’s cloud-based accounting, there’s no need for them to feel pressured into using QuickBooks desktop products. The various tiers of QBO, including the basic Simple Start plan, do offer fairly rich accounting features like time tracking, expense tracking and PayPal integration as well as the ease of use that users expect from SaaS products. The monthly subscription model might also be more attractive than the desktop pricing.

Larger businesses that need robust bank reconciliation capabilities, highly scalable inventory management and flexible automation integration are probably better served by QuickBooks’ pro-grade desktop Premier and desktop Enterprise variants. In fact, even small businesses that primarily comprise desktop users might prefer some of the functionality of the desktop QuickBooks products to QuickBooks Online.

But many organizations might still be left feeling like both versions of QuickBooks have show-stopping pros and cons. Sometimes it can come down to a single essential accounting feature that one or the other is lacking. For example, an organation might want the enterprise-tier handling of bank transactions and inventory management of QuickBooks Desktop software without having to sacrifice some of the user-friendly mobile capabilities and remote access. 

Is there a QuickBooks product that offers the best of both worlds?

Cameyo turns QuickBooks Desktop into a cloud-native app

While the key differences between QBO and its desktop version counterparts will continue to exist for the foreseeable future, you can bridge the gap with Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) solution. Using Cameyo, organizations can provide all or part of their workforce with the desktop versions of QuickBooks—whether you’re talking Pro Plus, Premier Plus or Enterprise—on any device, no matter where those users happen to be. All without having to install & manage the application on any of those devices. 

Cameyo’s pioneering Virtual App Delivery platform provides access to the Windows-native app in real-time via a secure HTML5 browser session. That means employees on Mac, ChromeOS, Linux and Windows computers, not to mention mobile devices like iPads and Android devices, can use full-featured QuickBooks Desktop products securely at home, on the road, as well as in-house. There’s no software redevelopment involved, no compromise on functionality and no learning curve. Users can continue to work with a company file the same way they would in QBO or, say, one of the desktop pro products like QuickBooks Enterprise.

This doesn’t just open up new possibilities for organizations that feel torn between QuickBooks’ cloud-based and desktop software. It also allows desktop-centric organizations to rapidly SaaS-ify their existing QuickBooks solution. If you already have templates, a chart of accounts and ecommerce settings (such as credit card processing) configured for QuickBooks desktop, Cameyo gives you the ability to cloud-enable that install without having to engage specialized professional services to perform an on-prem to cloud migration. And Cameyo does that while also circumventing the need for expensive and insecure VPNs.

The best part is that this ability isn’t limited to QuickBooks. Cameyo enables any software for cloud-based remote access from any device—including processor-intensive titles like AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Cloud. This eliminates the pain of having to choose between the desktop features your organization needs and the simple, SaaS experience that your users want.

Whether you’re trying to decide between QBO and QuickBooks Pro Plus or you want to SaaS-enable an existing QuickBooks desktop product, sign up now for your free trial of Cameyo and see how to expand your options. Just because a software product says “Desktop” or “Enterprise” no longer means that it can’t be cloud-enabled for your workforce. And if you’d like more detail on Cameyo’s security and ease of use before giving it a test run, simply reach out to us and schedule a demo with one of our engineers instead.

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