Modern business environments require increasing flexibility from teams. The shift to remote and hybrid work models has forced many organizations to rethink their IT infrastructure. It has become clear that traditional remote access methods - VPNs, terminal services, and limited cloud solutions - do not always meet the growing demands for security and convenience. In this situation, a cloud-based platform that allows employees to "assemble" their ideal workspace in just a few clicks is often the best solution.

Objective and Background

In one of the projects executed by the TNB team, the goal was to create a unified solution for quick access to office computers. However, this was not just a simple virtual machine with basic settings but a fully customizable selection of operating systems and configurations - including options for Windows, macOS, and Linux, with various memory and CPU resources, as well as pre-installed professional software.

The company’s management aimed to eliminate the need to physically distribute computers to employees working remotely or implement complex reservation systems for computing resources.

Implementation Approach

The solution was based on a scalable cloud infrastructure that could adjust to workload demands. Employees accessed a secure web portal where they could choose from a catalog of virtual machines. After selecting the desired configuration (operating system and pre-installed software), the work environment launched directly in the browser - without the need for additional client software or VPNs.

Secure access was ensured through encrypted connections and a protected API integrated with the company’s internal authentication systems.

Security Measures

Special attention was given to security. Engineers implemented multi-factor authentication (MFA), including support for one-time codes (2FA) and, if required, login via tokens or certificates. Each user session was encrypted, and the platform maintained strict network segmentation, ensuring that each virtual desktop was isolated from unauthorized users.

Collaboration Features

A particularly useful feature was the ability for multiple employees to share the same virtual desktop. This was especially valuable for project teams, enabling them to hold collaborative briefings or quickly make edits to files without emailing or transferring documents.

Setting up a shared session was straightforward: a user with access to a virtual machine could invite a colleague via the portal. Once authorized, the invited user saw the same virtual desktop and could collaborate in real-time—opening programs, editing files, and discussing tasks.

Key Business Benefits

• Flexibility & Accessibility – Employees can access a full workstation while on vacation or business trips without complicated VPN setups or reliance on a corporate network.

• Enhanced Security – Confidential data remains on secured cloud servers and does not reside on personal home computers.

• Cost Savings on IT Infrastructure – No need to purchase expensive workstations for every team member; instead, the platform dynamically allocates computing resources (CPU, memory) as needed.

• Simplified IT Management – The IT department can centrally manage system updates and configurations, reducing software conflicts and ensuring timely patching.

Challenges & Solutions

Network Latency

To ensure smooth performance, the platform required low ping and high bandwidth. The solution was to deploy a distributed infrastructure, with local cloud clusters positioned closer to client offices.

User Adaptation

Employees accustomed to physical computers were initially hesitant about virtual desktops. The transition was eased through training sessions and step-by-step guides to help them understand the new system.

Custom Configuration of Virtual Machines

Different departments had specific software requirements, necessitating a template system that allowed teams to deploy pre-configured virtual machines tailored to their needs.

Project Results

The transition to cloud desktops delivered significant cost savings on IT infrastructure while making scaling and updates much easier. Most employees appreciated the convenience of working from anywhere, eliminating the need to carry heavy laptops or remain tied to an office desk.

Collaborative work on shared virtual desktops significantly improved cross-functional team efficiency.

This project demonstrated that cloud desktops can fully replace traditional workstations. This approach unlocks new opportunities for hybrid and remote work while simplifying team collaboration.

Given the ongoing advancements in technology and the widespread adoption of SaaS solutions, virtual desktops are becoming an essential tool for companies looking to drive digital transformation and cost optimization.