In this project, you’ll learn how to deploy cloud desktops using Amazon WorkSpaces and the AWS Directory Service. Amazon WorkSpaces is a fully managed, secure desktop computing service which runs on the AWS cloud. Amazon WorkSpaces allows you to easily provision cloud-based virtual desktops and provide your users access to the documents, applications, and resources they need. The AWS Directory Service makes it easy to set up and run Microsoft Active Directory (AD) in the AWS cloud, or connect your AWS resources with an existing on-premises Microsoft Active Directory.
What you'll accomplish:
Provision Cloud Desktops using Amazon WorkSpaces, and access them using the Amazon WorkSpaces client application, available for Windows, Linux, and Mac computers, Chromebooks, iPads, Fire tablets, and Android tablets.
Create a new directory using Microsoft AD and add users. As part of the project, you’ll learn how to assign Amazon WorkSpaces to users in your Microsoft AD.
Perform basic administrative tasks using the AWS Management Console. You’ll learn how to reboot, restore, and rebuild Amazon WorkSpaces, create your own custom image which you can use for provisioning new Amazon WorkSpaces, and remove Amazon WorkSpaces.
What you'll need before starting:
An AWS Account: You will need an AWS account to begin provisioning Amazon WorkSpaces. Sign up for AWS.
Skill level: A basic understanding of desktop computing and Microsoft AD is helpful, but not required.
AWS Experience: Some prior experience with AWS is helpful to complete this project.
Monthly Billing Estimate:
The total cost of running cloud desktops using Amazon WorkSpaces will vary depending on your needs and configuration. If you use the resources described in the implementation guide for a full month, and choose the monthly billing option for your Amazon WorkSpaces, your cost will be about $168. This excludes the cost of bandwidth consumed accessing the public Internet from your Amazon WorkSpaces.
To see a breakdown of the services used in this project and their associated costs, see Services Used and Costs.
Need more resources to get started with AWS? Visit the Getting Started Resource Center to learn more.
This whitepaper addresses best practices for deploying Amazon WorkSpaces for your organization.
Visit the Amazon WorkSpaces Resource page for access to technical documentation and webinars.