What is a Cloud PC? A Complete Introduction
Tags: programming, cloud, web3, webdev
Published: 2023-12-28 05:28:55

Personal computers, in the form of desktops and laptops, have been integral to our lives for over two decades. We've come to appreciate the value of these physical machines that enable us to accomplish tasks we once only dreamed of. As we've grown more accustomed to them, technical terms like memory, storage, and CPU power have become familiar, highlighting their significant role in [computer performance](https://www.lehigh.edu/~inimr/computer-basics-tutorial/computersperformance.htm?ref=blog.neverinstall.com).

However, with such a versatile device comes both advancements and challenges.

## 
What are the challenges of traditional PCs?

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Limited Hardware Resources: Personal computers have fixed hardware, which can restrict our usage. Imagine needing to render a large video file, play a graphically intensive game, or work on a demanding data science project requiring substantial memory. In these scenarios, we're often faced with two choices: upgrade our computer or compromise on performance and accept the inevitable sluggishness.

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Accessibility Constraints: Our data and software are typically tied to one location or computer. Accessing them from different places or devices usually requires backing up or manually uploading everything to the cloud, which can be inconvenient.

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Anxiety of Data Security: The fear of losing unsaved data or encountering a system failure often leaves us anxious about the security and integrity of our important files.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/kw0ybrk88vxsuch68nil.gif)

## 
wait, isn't this just how PCs have always worked?
Well, hold that thought until you get a glimpse of the innovative world of Cloud PCs! Imagine accessing your entire desktop, applications, and files from anywhere, just like streaming your favorite TV show.

Cloud PCs are the segway to the ultimate PC experience. Now, individuals and organizations can break free from the limitations of local computing, harnessing the [power of remote ](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/remote-server?ref=blog.neverinstall.com)servers and the cloud. It empowers users to achieve more than ever before.

## 
Interesting, How does it work?
Your cloud PC lives on a remote server in a [data center](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/data-center-virtualization/what-is-a-data-center.html?ref=blog.neverinstall.com). 
You connect to it via the internet, and your desktop, files, and applications are available to you on any device, anytime, anywhere. It allows you to use multiple operating systems, access and run any heavy application with the same native experience you expect from physical computers.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6ug37hy9lyx60umg9ym5.png)

How Neverinstall Cloud PC works
They have been there for over a decade and have many names like [Virtual Desktops](https://blog.neverinstall.com/cloud-desktops-vs-on-premises-desktops-roi/) or Remote desktops. They have been doing [wonders for organisations](https://blog.neverinstall.com/cloud-pcs-flexibility/) and companies who require data security and scalable hardware resources for their work.

Why should you use a Cloud PC?
Well, for starters, they offer unparalleled flexibility – work from your bed, cafe, or even while traveling. They scale up or down as your needs change, and you only pay for what you use. Plus, no more waiting for system updates; these are managed remotely, keeping your virtual workspace up-to-date and secure. It's like having a personal IT assistant at your disposal!

#
Unlimited Hardware:

You never have to worry about RAM, CPU or GPU power, add or remove these resources as needed for your task. You can run heavy apps on basic computers like [chromebooks](https://blog.neverinstall.com/run-heavy-apps-on-chromebook/).
#
Use Your Computer from Anywhere:

You can use your computer from any place, just like checking email on your phone. Open your browser and connect with your computer without losing any data.
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No Need to Buy a New Computer Often:

Your cloud computer gets better on its own, so you don't have to keep buying new ones.
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Saves Money:

It's cheaper because you don't need to buy expensive computers or fix them.
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Keeps Your Data Safe:

Your important data, applications are kept safe in a secure cloud provided by major cloud providers like Amazon, Microsoft, Google etc..
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Change as You Need:

Make your cloud computer more powerful for coding, or simpler for browsing and application usage, whenever you want.

Mind blowing advantages of a Cloud PC

## 
Choosing the right Cloud PC
Choosing the right Cloud PC is crucial, as only a handful of companies are currently building these services for consumers. Let's take a look at some notable providers -

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[Neverinstall](https://neverinstall.com/?ref=blog.neverinstall.com): As pioneers in offering Cloud PCs to users, we provide a choice between Windows or Linux OS, along with a wide range of popular apps and ample customization options. All you need is just a browser and an internet speed of 1Mbps 😄 Dive into our detailed comparison in our [previous blog](https://blog.neverinstall.com/top-5-cloud-pc-providers-to-transform-your-computing-experience/).

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[Windows 365](https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/windows-365?ref=blog.neverinstall.com): Microsoft's entry into the cloud PC arena, Windows 365, is currently Windows-only. It offers a streamlined experience with limited resource options.

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[Shadow](https://shadow.tech/?ref=blog.neverinstall.com): Initially focused on cloud gaming, Shadow has expanded to offer Cloud PCs for both customers and individuals. They are a bit pricier, as it’s more geared for high end design, compared to other options in the market.

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[Kasmweb](https://kasmweb.com/?ref=blog.neverinstall.com): Tailored for developers and offering self-hosting capabilities, Kasmweb is a technical but formidable choice for virtual computing needs.

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JIO Cloud PC: An upcoming option to watch out for, promising to add more variety to the cloud computing landscape.

## 
It's the future of computers
According to [Fortune Business Insights](https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-market-107849?ref=blog.neverinstall.com) the global virtual desktop infrastructure market size is projected to grow from $12.72 billion in 2023 to $57.67 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 24.1%. Cloud PCs are the modernised versions of Legacy VDI solutions. 

Currently, around 7% of businesses adopt virtual desktop infrastructure for comprehensive support and centralised workspace management. Furthermore, around 50% of large enterprises adopt VDI.

[Gartner predicts](https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-08-02-gartner-says-four-trends-are-shaping-the-future-of-public-cloud?ref=blog.neverinstall.com) that cloud spending will exceed 45% of all enterprise IT spending by 2026. Cloud PCs can address the unaddressed market but most of the hindrance in this space comes from the high setup times. And we, at Neverinstall envision a future where all the complexities of setting up a Cloud PC are a thing of the past, replaced by a seamless, plug-and-play solution that simplifies the user experience.


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2pt5bzh44l71e15d8psn.png)
A user tweet on Neverinstall
 

## 
Conclusion
So there you have it – a tour of cloud PCs. Whether you're a gamer needing high GPU power, [a developer seeking a customizable environment](https://blog.neverinstall.com/why-developers-need-a-personal-cloud-pc-now-more-than-ever/), or a business professional looking for scalable virtual desktops, the answer now floats in the cloud.

We at [Neverinstall](https://neverinstall.com/about?ref=blog.neverinstall.com) are at the forefront, streamlining the setup process and tackling key challenges such as reliance on connectivity and cost efficiency. With the advent of more user-friendly, secure, and high-performance Cloud PC options, we're poised to witness a significant surge in their popularity, reshaping how we approach computing in our increasingly digital world.