Amazon WorkSpaces: Overview and Setup

Learn about Amazon WorkSpaces, a managed Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solution. Understand how it works, the steps to create a WorkSpace, and its features and benefits. Discover how to set up Amazon WorkSpaces for cloud-based desktop access.

Amazon WorkSpaces: Overview and Setup

Overview

Amazon WorkSpaces is a fully managed Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solution that provides cloud-based desktops to end-users. It allows users to access their applications, documents, and other resources from a variety of devices, such as laptops, iPads, Kindle Fire, or Android tablets, offering flexibility and mobility in the workplace.

How It Works

  • WorkSpaces Instances: Each WorkSpace is a persistent Windows Server 2008 R2 instance that functions like Windows 7. These desktops are hosted on the AWS cloud and streamed to users via the PCoIP protocol.
  • Data Backup: Data is automatically backed up every 12 hours by default, ensuring that users' information is secure.

User Requirements

  • Internet Connection: Users need an internet connection with open TCP and UDP ports.
  • Client Application: A free Amazon WorkSpaces client application must be downloaded and installed on the user's device.

Steps to Create Amazon WorkSpaces

  1. Create and Configure a VPC: Before setting up WorkSpaces, configure a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC). This is detailed in the VPC chapter.
  2. Create an AD Directory:
    1. Open the Amazon WorkSpaces Console.
    2. Navigate to Directories and select Setup Directory.
    3. Choose Create Simple AD and fill in the required details, including VPC information.
    4. Review and confirm the details to create the directory.
  3. Create a WorkSpace:
    1. Go to the Amazon WorkSpaces Console.
    2. Select WorkSpaces and then choose Launch WorkSpaces.
    3. Choose the directory you created and decide whether to enable or disable WorkDocs.
    4. Add users to the WorkSpace, select the necessary bundles, and launch the WorkSpaces.
  4. Test Your WorkSpaces:
    1. Download the Amazon WorkSpaces client application from this link.
    2. Install and run the application, enter the registration code received via email, and connect using your credentials.
    3. Verify that the WorkSpace is functioning correctly by visiting the Amazon WorkSpaces page.

Features of Amazon WorkSpaces

  • Network Health Check-Up: Verifies network and internet connection, checks if WorkSpaces and their registration services are accessible, and ensures that port 4172 is open for both UDP and TCP access.
  • Client Reconnect: Users can reconnect to their WorkSpace without re-entering credentials every time. The application stores an access token securely, valid for 12 hours.
  • Auto Resume Session: If a session is disconnected due to network issues, it can be resumed within 20 minutes by default (extendable to 4 hours). This feature can be disabled in the group policy section.
  • Console Search: Administrators can search for WorkSpaces by user name, bundle type, or directory, making management easier.

Benefits of Amazon WorkSpaces

  • Easy to Set Up: Easily select the required CPU type, memory, storage, applications, and number of desktops to match your needs.
  • Device and Application Flexibility: Install the WorkSpaces application on various devices at no cost and choose from a list of available applications.
  • Cost-Effective: No upfront commitment required. Pay only for what you use, with costs billed on a monthly basis.