Many companies now question whether it makes sense to move their virtual desktops to Chromebook devices. Hosting virtual desktops on Chromebooks helps you to perform multitasking activities and work on multiple tabs. It does not require a local drive, but only hardware and a browser. It has an excellent interface to meet remote working needs and enables you to access, share, and operate business resources.
Quick deployment and modern Google DaaS integrations give Chromebook an advantage for teams demanding secure, anywhere access without complex on-premises maintenance. However, while Chromebooks are cost-effective and secure in a VDI environment, they may not suit all businesses or workflows.
In this article…
Let’s discuss whether moving virtual desktops to Chromebooks is the right thing for your business.
What are Hosted Virtual Desktops?
Hosted Desktops or Desktop as a Service is a managed cloud solution that delivers virtual desktops to end-users hosted on third-party servers. It provides enterprises with the flexibility to work from any location. Do you know the unusual transition to work from home (WFH) culture has accelerated the use of managed virtual desktops?
According to a Future Market Insights study, the DaaS market is anticipated to be valued at USD 34,908.8 million in 2033. The reason? With DaaS, employees can access business applications via the cloud on any device or location. Moreover, the adoption of DaaS has offered businesses enhanced security as every piece of data is in the cloud, not in vulnerable endpoints.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a lightweight laptop that runs on Google’s Chrome OS and is designed primarily for online use. In the Windows-dominated market, Chromebook is the humble novice. Chromebook, since 2011, has been striving to increase its sales compared to the Mac.
In 2018, it reached 60% of the education industry. Recently, Chromebook has developed a few updates to survive in the high-powered computing market. Technology research firm IDC estimated that device makers shipped around 9 million Chrome OS devices in the third quarter, up 90% from a year earlier, compared to a 15% growth rate for all PCs.
Does Virtual Desktop Work with Chromebook?
Cloud desktop technology is highly beneficial as it supports the remote workforce post-pandemic. From updates to backend tasks, the cloud service provider performs all the tasks. This saves the time and costs of small enterprises. But is it the same when you have virtual desktops on a Chromebook?
The answer is yes. Google and Microsoft are popular with their virtual desktop operating on the cloud. In the business world, people are aware of DaaS on Microsoft. However, they are unaware that Chromebook also helps you host virtual desktops on the cloud.
How DaaS Functions on Chromebook?
Google virtual desktops segregate workspaces and personal applications. Virtual desktops in Chromebooks are quite simple and similar to those in Windows or macOS. Once you log in with your credentials, you will see a new desktop with all the applications you use often.
The simple interface and good performance make Chrome OS perfect for every professional, from freshers to CTO-level professionals, who require a cost-effective OS with remote access to a high-powered cloud. Creating a DaaS workspace on Chrome OS is a cost-effective solution as it is economical to buy and replace. It is ideal for remote users, contract workers, or employees working from home.
The best part is that Citrix has collaborated with Google Cloud to launch a cloud solution for businesses to secure their work. This collaboration allows companies to scale and ensure their safe workforce with DaaS.
Moreover, Google DaaS or hosting desktops on Chrome OS delivers virtualization solutions on any device without separately spending on Google cloud subscriptions. Now, you can track and provision your virtual desktops without IT responsibility.
Ace Cloud Hosting delivers cloud desktops that run smoothly on Chrome OS—ideal for remote teams, contract workers, and BYOD setups.
Benefits of Using DaaS on Chromebook
DaaS on Chromebook is the secure solution for creating a digital workspace. Chrome OS delivers an outstanding user experience with a simple user interface.
You can work efficiently in the Google ecosystem with Citrix compatibility on the Google Cloud Platform to host managed VDI.
We have compiled a few benefits of using DaaS on Chromebook.
1. Secure Applications Secure
Data security is a critical concern for any firm virtualizing its desktops. Chrome OS has centralized security for people who don’t check phishing emails. We are all aware of the keylogging of dangerous software installations like malware and ransomware.
From a security standpoint, the DaaS provider makes sure that no virus is running on your system. Regular central back-ups are done to ensure no data loss in case the user forgets to back up their files.
2. Flexibility and Remote Access
You can run your virtual desktop on any updated Chromebook. Moreover, you can also run it on mobile devices with DaaS applications installed, such as smartphones and tablets.
DaaS technology lets users access their virtual desktops using the cloud. Also, firms can implement the BYOD policy.
With DaaS on Chromebook, you can have the same desktop experience wherever you are, just like using physical computers in office premises for both employees and management. The desktop is configured to fit their needs, further imitating their work experience from the physical workspace.
3. Reduced Cost
One of the primary benefits of setting DaaS on Chromebook is its low price. Google DaaS allows businesses to quickly deliver virtual desktops and applications irrespective of how many users are using them.
Firstly, it replaces hiring many IT experts to manage the servers, making you pay less for resources. Secondly, you are not limited to purchasing specific hardware or an operating device; you can carry your Chromebook to access your work files anywhere.
4. Quick Integration and Cloud Deployment
Whether you are running your desktop on public, on-premises, or hybrid cloud, Chromebook has a flexible model.
It integrates with Citrix Virtual Desktop to handle different workloads, such as remote desktop sessions. Moreover, the cloud service provider controls and unifies all the virtual workloads in highly developed infrastructures from a centralized model.
5. Deliver and Manage Virtual Desktops Efficiently
In DaaS on Chromebook, you get to use virtual desktops hosted on significant hypervisors. Chrome OS lets you make virtual desktop clones alongside the original. It applies some persistent security policies such as anti-malware software, hardened and patched OS, and more.
Deploy secure, scalable virtual desktops on Chromebooks with Ace Cloud Hosting—without the need for complex local infrastructure.
How to Switch Between Desks on Chromebook?
Chromebook now rivals Microsoft and AWS endpoints in the market. This is because Chrome OS adds a virtual desk feature that mirrors multiple desktop workflows familiar to Windows power users.
It is easy to switch tabs with a couple of clicks. That means you can keep two windows open without invading privacy. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Create a Desk
- Press the Show windows and click Add new desk to create a new Desk.
- Click the Desk name, type a new label, and press Enter to rename it.
- Press the Show windows key on your Chromebook keyboard.
- Select any Desk thumbnail to switch to workspaces.
- Swipe four fingers left or right on the touchpad or quickly press Shift + Search + 1–8 to jump from desks 1-8.
2. Show/Hide a Desk
- Right-click the shelf or Desk name.
- Choose Show desk name or Hide desk name.
- Look at the desk icons on the shelf.
- Hover your cursor over the first letter of the desk name.
- If the desk name is customized, you’ll see only the first initial on the icon.
- If the desk name is not customized, it will appear as “#(desk position)” by default.
- Hovering will reveal the full desk name.
- Find the full desk name when the shelf is on the left or right side of the screen.
- Click on the desk name’s first initial
3. Move Window/tabs to Another Desk
- Press Show windows, grab a window, and drag it onto another Desk thumbnail.
- Right-click a window’s title bar, pick Move window to desk.
- Choose “All desks” to keep it visible everywhere.
- Right-click a Chrome tab, choose Move tab to another window.
- Pick the target window listed under its Desk.
- Press Show windows, click Save desk for later, then open Saved for later to reopen or delete stored Desks.
4. Close Desks
- Press the Show Windows key.
- Click the Close desk and windows on any Desk thumbnail to shut it down.
5. Combine Desks
- Press the Show Windows key.
- Click Combine with [Desk name] on a Desk thumbnail to merge two workspaces.
Deploying Virtual Desktops on Chrome OS with Ace Cloud Hosting
Chrome OS is versatile and capable of being a ready-to-work platform. Its cloud-centric nature makes it an enterprise-ready device for your remote workforce.
The Chromebook is an operating system that enables you to perform all professional tasks without any lag. Its security protocols are ideal for any client with minimal local data, quick data migration, and low cost. Of course, Mac and Linux have different experiences. But, Chromebook can also be your plan B if you require a power-user feature.
Thinking about setting up DaaS on Chromebook? Get in touch with our solutions consultant at +1 (855) 219-0431. They will guide you through every step.
Get started with Ace Cloud Hosting’s virtual desktops designed for Chromebook users—fast setup, secure access, and full flexibility.
