Azure Virtual Desktop in Sylvan Lake, Alberta

Azure Virtual Desktop is a cloud-hosted Windows desktop that users access via a browser or lightweight client — no VPN required. Unlike a VPN, which extends your network to the user's device (and all its risks), AVD keeps everything in Microsoft's secure Azure datacentres. Users get a full Windows experience, applications run in the cloud, and data never touches the endpoint. This makes AVD significantly more secure than VPN for remote access, especially for businesses with BYOD or contractor access requirements.

AVD itself is included in most Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise licenses — you only pay for the Azure compute and storage that runs your desktops. For a typical Calgary SMB, AVD costs range from $30–$80 per user per month in Azure compute, depending on workload requirements. AltaCom's management fee covers environment administration, image management, and support. Most businesses find AVD costs less than maintaining physical hardware while delivering better security and flexibility.

Yes — this is the primary use case for most of AltaCom's AVD deployments. Remote workers anywhere in Alberta (or the world) can access their full Windows desktop from a home computer, personal laptop, or tablet using the Microsoft Remote Desktop client or a web browser. The experience is fast because the desktop runs in Microsoft's Canadian Azure regions, and all corporate data stays in the cloud — never on the home device.

A straightforward AVD deployment for a Calgary SMB (10–50 users) typically takes 2–4 weeks: one week for environment design and image build, one week for testing and user acceptance, and one week for production cutover and user onboarding. Larger deployments with complex application packaging, integration with on-premises systems, or MSIX app attach requirements may take 6–8 weeks.