Amazon Web Services (AWS) has expanded its WorkSpaces Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) lineup with the introduction of two high-powered instance types: GeneralPurpose.4xlarge and GeneralPurpose.8xlarge.
These instances are tailored for professionals managing resource-intensive Windows workloads, offering robust specifications for a range of industries.
The GeneralPurpose.4xlarge instance provides 16 virtual CPUs (vCPUs) and 64 GB of memory, while the GeneralPurpose.8xlarge configuration includes 32 vCPUs and a hefty 128 GB of memory.
Both configurations also come with 175 GB of root volume storage and an additional 100 GB for user files, making them ideal for applications requiring significant computational power.
Who Will Benefit from These Workstations?
AWS is targeting developers, financial analysts, engineers, and scientists with these new options. Developers can leverage these virtual machines to handle large code compilation tasks in environments like Visual Studio, IntelliJ, and Eclipse.
Meanwhile, scientists and engineers can use tools like MATLAB, GNU Octave, and R for complex simulations, data analysis, and modeling.
Pricing Structure
The GeneralPurpose.8xlarge instance, AWS’s first to offer 32 vCPUs, is priced at $590 per month. For the smaller GeneralPurpose.4xlarge model, the monthly cost is $295.
Hourly rates are also available, priced at $4.56 and $2.28 for the 32-core and 16-core instances, respectively. These hourly plans require an additional $19 monthly fee.
For users who bring their own Windows licenses (BYOL), AWS offers reduced pricing. The 32-core option drops to $544 per month, or $4.40 per hour, while the 16-core model is available for $272 per month, or $2.20 per hour.
Competitive Market Position
AWS has positioned these virtual workstations as cost-effective options compared to similar offerings from Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud.
However, for long-term users planning to operate these instances for six months or more, on-premises solutions may provide better value.
Access and System Requirements
It’s important to note that these virtual workstations require a separate device, often referred to as a thin client, to access the cloud environment.
Users can connect via laptops, tablets, or even smartphones, provided they have a reliable internet connection.
Windows-Only Support
Currently, these new workstation instances are exclusively available for Windows operating systems. AWS has not provided any updates on potential Linux support, which may limit their appeal for organizations with Linux-based workflows.
Enhancements to EC2 Image Builder
Alongside these new WorkSpaces offerings, AWS has also announced updates to its EC2 Image Builder.
This tool now allows users to convert Microsoft Windows ISO files directly into Amazon Machine Images (AMIs), simplifying the use of existing Windows licenses within the AWS environment.
Key Takeaways for Businesses
While AWS’s 32-core virtual workstation offers immense computational power for demanding applications, businesses must consider its associated costs and current limitations.
For extended use, on-premises solutions may still be a more economical choice. Additionally, the lack of Linux support might necessitate alternative options for organizations relying on open-source operating systems.
