IBM has rolled out a new public desktop cloud service that gives end-users access to information they need remotely, from various devices, virtually anywhere through a centrally managed computing environment.
The new service allows companies to host an employee’s desktop applications into a centrally managed server, which can be accessed using a web browser from a java-enabled device including netbooks, desktops and thin clients.
The company said that the new IBM Smart Business Desktop on the IBM Cloud is a subscription service that helps clients virtualise desktop computing resources, and provide a logical, rather than a physical, method of access to data, computing power, storage capacity and other resources.
IBM claims that the service offers flexible delivery models, including three standard cloud-based offerings, dedicated infrastructure, and customer premise services, while helping to streamline data backup and recovery, and reduce unauthorised access.
Jan Jackman, vice president of end user services at IBM Global Technology Services, said: Today more than ever, enterprises need an affordable, reliable and efficient way to deploy and manage desktop infrastructures. The public desktop cloud service is designed to help bring cost savings, flexibility, scalability and security to clients like never before.
IBM has partnered with Citrix, Desktone, VMware and Wyse for the service. IBM plans to make the Cloud service available in North America and Europe starting October 2009. This service reportedly involves no start-up costs and can be availed for a monthly subscription fee that is based on usage.
