What is Amazon WorkSpaces?
Amazon WorkSpaces is a fully managed Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) that provides Windows or Linux desktops in the cloud. Users access their persistent desktop from any device. IT teams manage desktops centrally without their own VDI infrastructure.
Core Features
- Persistent Desktops: User data and settings are preserved
- Flexible Bundles: From 2 vCPU/4 GB RAM to GPU workstations
- Multi-Protocol: PCoIP and WorkSpaces Streaming Protocol (WSP)
- Directory Integration: Seamless connection to Active Directory
- Application Management: Central software distribution via WorkSpaces
Typical Use Cases
Remote Work: Companies provide full-featured desktops to employees working from home. All data remains in the cloud, and private devices never access corporate data.
External Staff: Freelancers and contractors receive temporary desktops. After project completion, the desktop is deleted without data residue on private devices.
Development Environments: Developers work on high-performance cloud desktops. Builds and compilations run on AWS hardware while developers work from lightweight laptops.
Benefits
- No VDI infrastructure to manage and patch
- Flexible billing: monthly for full-time, hourly for occasional use
- Fast provisioning of new desktops in minutes
- Security through centralized data storage in AWS
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS Reseller, innFactory supports you with Amazon WorkSpaces: architecture design, directory integration, bundle optimization, network configuration, and rollout planning.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Which operating systems does WorkSpaces support?
WorkSpaces supports Windows 10, Windows 11, and Amazon Linux 2. You can choose from various hardware bundles, from simple Value bundles to graphics-intensive Graphics bundles.
How does Windows licensing work?
WorkSpaces offers Windows with included licensing (BYOL not required). Alternatively, you can bring your own Windows licenses (Bring Your Own License) for additional cost savings.
Can users access from different devices?
Yes, WorkSpaces clients are available for Windows, macOS, iPad, Android, Chromebook, and web browsers. Users can access their desktop from any supported device.
How is data secured?
WorkSpaces stores all data encrypted in AWS. Connections are encrypted via PCoIP or WSP. Data never leaves the AWS region and remains in the EU for EU regions.