What cloud desktops are
A cloud desktop moves the place where your work actually happens from the computer on your desk to secure servers in a data centre. Your team sees a familiar Windows desktop with your applications, shared drives and files, and they can reach it from the office, from home or on the road, on almost any device.
Because the desktop, applications and data all live in the cloud, there's no server humming in a cupboard, no VPN for remote staff to wrestle with and no business data scattered across individual laptops.
Who it is for
- Businesses with ageing on-site servers that need replacing and would rather not buy another one.
- Hybrid teams who need the same desktop and applications at home as in the office.
- Multi-site businesses that want everyone working from one set of systems.
- Firms with line-of-business software, such as accounts, ERP or practice management systems, that doesn't run in a web browser. We also offer dedicated hosting for SAP Business One and CCH Central.
- Businesses with strict data security needs, where keeping data off personal devices is important.
Benefits
- Work from anywhere. The same desktop and files from any location, with secure sign-in.
- Better security. Data stays in the data centre, protected and backed up, rather than on laptops that can be lost or stolen.
- No servers to maintain. We look after the infrastructure, updates and capacity.
- Predictable costs. A monthly fee replaces large, irregular server purchases.
- Scalable. Add or remove users as your business changes.
- Longer-lasting devices. Office PCs and laptops do less work, so they can be simpler and last longer.
Moving off an office server
For many businesses, the trigger for cloud desktops is a server that's reaching the end of its life. Replacing it means a large up-front cost, a weekend of disruption and the same problem again in five years. Moving to the cloud instead turns that capital cost into a predictable monthly one, and removes the risk of a single box in a cupboard holding your whole business.
It also solves problems the old server never could. Staff get the same experience at home as in the office. New starters can be set up in minutes rather than waiting for a laptop to be built. And if your office is ever out of action, because of a power cut, a flood or a building issue, your team can carry on working from anywhere with an internet connection.
How we deliver it
We design and deliver fully managed cloud desktops, using private or public cloud infrastructure depending on what suits your applications and budget.
Every project starts with planning: we audit your applications, data, users and printers, check which software can move and how, and design a desktop environment around the way your teams work. We then build and test the environment, migrate your data and applications, and move users across in a planned way that keeps disruption to a minimum.
After the move, we manage the platform day to day, including security updates, backups, performance and user changes, and support your team when they need help.
Why choose Seabeck for cloud desktops
- Tailored, not off the shelf. Solutions are designed around your applications and teams, and scale up or down as your business changes.
- Specialist application experience, including hosting complex software such as SAP Business One and CCH Central.
- One provider for voice, data and IT, so your cloud desktops, phones, connectivity and managed IT support all come from one team.
- An in-house team based in Elstree, Hertfordshire, supporting businesses across the UK.