How CloudSpirit Works:
The typical desktop is a stand-alone computer with an operating system and a variety of software applications (and viruses and malware) installed on its hard drive. It may connect to a network and allow users to store and access some documents and applications on a server that is maintained separately by IT personnel. Otherwise, it may be a stand-alone computer, with the Internet as the only link to coworkers and the outside world.
With CloudSpirit, all the servers, the operating system and software are part of a secure, private network we design, maintain and support. The only hardware users need is an Internet-capable device; The only software that device needs is a browser.
That means, for example, that every user has exactly the same version of the latest Windows® operating system and the same and most current version of Microsoft Office®. Plus, CloudSpirit provides constant and automatic backup of every user's files and documents, document sharing among specified groups (e.g. teachers with students or tribal coworkers with leaders), controlled access to the Internet, and state-of-the-art speed, safety and security.
In addition, the cost, on a per user basis, is typically only half of what it would be to provide each user with a new computer equipped with the latest operating system and software.
What is VDI?
VDI, or Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, simply means that all an organization's software and databases are stored and accessed from a powerful, centralized computer, or "server." When a user logs on from their workstation or "thin client" (thin, because it doesn't hold all the programs that a regular computer or "fat client" does) the operating system and programs they see and use are all running on that server. The server can be yours, located on site, our off-site serveror a combination of the two. One Prospect will customize the network solution, depending on your specific needs.
So what, exactly, is "the Cloud"?
Basically, the Internet. Cloud services are programs and applications running on a server that's accessed over the Internet. This is also sometimes referred to as SaaS, or Software as a Service. The user isn't required to purchase, install and run the programs on their computer, they can just access them for a pre-determined fee over the Internet.
What are the advantages of CloudSpirit?
Equality: Every user has equal, password-protected access to the same operating system, software versions, data and storage from any device with Internet connectivity.
Security: We maintain and monitor your CloudSpirit server to always have the most current, state-of-the-art firewalls and encryption. And since users can only access their VDI through password-protected portals, you have a chain-of-custody record of who has accessed file, data or applications.
Cost Efficiency: While every installation is different, we can reduce costs over traditional computerized workplace environments by as much as 50% in several significant ways:
- Hardware costs are less because users don't need robust desktop computers and you don't need to pay for and maintain a network.
- No network means much less demand on your IT staff.
- Thin clients demand significantly less electricity than standard computer desktops, as does CloudSpirit compared to a traditionally equipped network.
- Productivity is increased because users have access to their VDIs from anywhere at anytime.
One Prospect's CloudSpirit products evolved from our years of experience developing IT solutions for a wide range of clients and the comprehensive understanding we have of the unique needs of schools, tribes, businesses and other organizations. Our mission: the most cost-efficient way to provide you with the technology you need to succeed.
