DaaS (Desktop-as-a-Service)

Desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) is a form of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) in which the VDI is outsourced and handled by a third party. Also called hosted desktop services, desktop-as-a-service is frequently delivered as a cloud service along with the apps needed for use on the virtual desktop.

A Desktop-as-a-service provider typically handles storing, securing and backing up a user’s data, as well as upgrades for the DaaS service and supported applications. Some of the more well-known desktop-as-a-service providers include Amazon, Desktone (a VMware company) and Citrix.

IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service)

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a form of cloud computing that provides virtualized computing resources over the Internet.  IaaS is one of three main categories of cloud computing services, alongside Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS).

In an IaaS model, a third-party provider hosts hardware, software, servers, storage and other infrastructure components on behalf of its users. IaaS providers also host users’ applications and handle tasks including system maintenance, backup and resiliency planning.

IaaS platforms offer highly scalable resources that can be adjusted on-demand. This makes IaaS well-suited for workloads that are temporary, experimental or change unexpectedly.

Network Infrastructure

Network infrastructure is the hardware and software resources of an entire network that enable network connectivity, communication, operations and management of an enterprise network. It provides the communication path and services between users, processes, applications, services and external networks/the internet.

Network infrastructure is typically part of the IT infrastructure found in most enterprise IT environments. The entire network infrastructure is interconnected, and can be used for internal communications, external communications or both. A typical network infrastructure includes:

  • Networking Hardware:
    • Routers
    • Switches
    • LAN cards
    • Wireless routers
    • Cables
  • Networking Software:
    • Network operations and management
    • Operating systems
    • Firewall
    • Network security applications
  • Network Services:
    • T-1 Line
    • DSL
    • Satellite
    • Wireless protocols
    • IP addressing