Question:

“Could you elucidate the distinctions between Citrix DaaS and Citrix Workspace? Additionally, in the context of accessing Azure VMs and requiring authentication through an on-premises AD, while excluding the use of Azure AD, what VDI solution would you recommend as the most suitable?”

Answer:

Citrix DaaS, formerly known as Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, is a cloud-based service that provides virtual desktops and applications to users. It’s designed for ease of use, scalability, and flexibility, allowing IT administrators to manage VMs and provide secure access to confidential data. Citrix DaaS is rated highly for its functionality and customer support.

On the other hand, Citrix Workspace is a comprehensive solution that offers a unified platform to access all apps and files. It integrates various Citrix services and third-party applications, providing a seamless user experience. However, it’s worth noting that Citrix Workspace has been discontinued and will not receive future updates from Citrix.

VDI Solution for Azure VMs with On-Premises AD Authentication:

For organizations looking to access Azure VMs and authenticate via on-premises AD, without the option of Azure AD, a suitable VDI solution would be one that supports integration with on-premises AD domains. Microsoft’s architecture suggests using Azure Virtual Network and Azure Virtual Machines in conjunction with a cloud-based identity service like Microsoft Entra ID, which can be integrated with on-premises AD domains.

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is another viable option, offering identities and authentication methods tailored for Azure environments. AVD supports the use of on-premises AD DS authentication, allowing you to leverage your existing on-premises AD infrastructure.

In conclusion, while Citrix DaaS provides a solid VDI and application virtualization solution, Citrix Workspace is no longer a viable option due to its discontinuation. For accessing Azure VMs with on-premises AD authentication, solutions like Microsoft Entra ID with Azure Virtual Network and Azure Virtual Desktop are recommended, as they offer the necessary integration with on-premises AD without relying on Azure AD. These solutions provide the security and flexibility needed to manage your virtual desktop environment effectively.