How to leverage your existing legacy hardware post XP EOL?
— Brought to you by the 2X Cloud Computing Team —
Windows XP comes to its end of life on April 8th, 2014. This news has recently been fodder for headlines on all technology blogs and sites across the internet. Among other versions of Windows, XP was more reliable, highly efficient, and easy to use. These are the reasons why many users are still holding on to this version. It is estimated that 30% of PC users use XP on their machines. And, the end of XP is going to affect more systems than previous expirations did. For businesses that continue to use XP for various reasons, there are several challenges ahead. Security and compliance issues take a toll on your business. In addition, the lack of technical support, driver help, and independent software vendor software can cost your business a lot in the long run.
The majority of systems using XP are legacy ones. Migrating to a newer version of Windows might not be feasible for most of these systems. They need a complete overhaul. Businesses that cannot afford to reinvest on the infrastructure have to search for different alternates. Using a virtual environment is one of them. Even though Microsoft has also stopped the Windows XP native mode support for virtual machines, it can reduce risks or completely remove them. However, the good news for legacy hardware owners is that 2X offers a unique and innovative solution to securely leverage existing legacy hardware post-XP EOL. Backed by several years of experience in providing highly secure desktop and application delivery solutions, 2X has come up with a unique product, 2X LifeCyclePlus, that enables businesses to continue using legacy hardware even after XP is shut down.
What is 2X LifeCyclePlus?
2X LifeCyclePlus is a product of 2X software that transforms legacy infrastructure into a secure virtual environment capable of running the latest versions of Windows OS. By converting existing PCs into virtual workstations, 2X LifeCyclePlus enables businesses to cost-effectively provide secure and optimized remote access to users. While effectively addressing present migration challenges and investment hassles, this innovative product allows legacy hardware to connect to 2X Remote Application Server and tap the innovative remote technology to optimize resources, provide mobility solutions, and improve the overall revenues of the company.
How does it work?
2X LifeCyclePlus for Windows XP converts existing workstations into thin clients by replacing the Windows shell (desktop) with the 2X software. By configuring local applications, you can access applications like Print Management, Color Management, Browser Management, and other tasks permitted by the administrator. In addition, these machines can be connected to 2X Remote Application Server, a powerful VDI server, to unleash the full benefits of remote desktop solutions. You can run Windows desktops and published applications from Terminal Servers and all major hypervisors that include but are not limited to VMWare, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix Xen.
What does 2X LifeCyclePlus offer businesses?
By effectively transforming legacy hardware into cost-effective thin clients, 2X LifeCyclePlus allows businesses to fully leverage legacy hardware. At the same time, it addresses several migration challenges as well. First of all, the legacy hardware is securely managed in a VDI environment. Secondly, the legacy hardware runs on the latest version of Windows, and data compliance issues are eliminated. Businesses don’t have to worry about the lack of independent software vendor support or hardware support. Moreover, it brings the latest innovation in remote technology to your desk. By being adept regarding changing technologies, you can stay ahead of competition. Last but not the least, 2X LifeCyclePlus reduces downtimes and maintenance costs that in turn increase your business’ revenues.
