In the list of AWS resources,  I think AppStream (2.0) is one of the most powerful and innovative.

What is AppStream?

This service is another bundle of features that add up to a solution to a common problem.  The problem is providing access to a Windows application across the Internet.  There are a lot of legacy applications built for companies that require access from more than a desktop.  Remote workers are becoming more common, and that means that we need to give them access to the same tools they have in the office.

Complex Infrastructure, Quickly

The Appstream solution is not new or unknown.  A lot of companies provide remote connectivity into their network and virtual machines that can run applications.  However, this setup requires several pieces and can be complicated to create and secure.  Instead of building your own, Amazon provides an all-in-one solution for quickly getting your applications available online.  There is even a free tier option to try out their solution.

Scalable Delivery

The best part of AppStream is the strength of all of the AWS services.  This service provides the ability to start small and grow with your needs.  A small company of a few employees may be able to benefit from a service like this.  Unfortunately, the cost to setup a solution can be expensive and require skills not available with the current staff.  This solution takes those setup costs and technical skill requirements off the table and uses what Amazon has already built.  Now even small companies can provide remote access to their internal applications while staying within a budget.  Once again, Amazon offers an enterprise-class solution to even the smallest business.

Rob Broadhead

Rob is a founder of, and frequent contributor to, Develpreneur. This includes the Building Better Developers podcast. He is also a lifetime learner as a developer, designer, and manager of software solutions. Rob is the founder of RB Consulting and has managed to author a book about his family experiences and a few about becoming a better developer. In his free time, he stays busy raising five children (although they have grown into adults). When he has a chance to breathe, he is on the ice playing hockey to relax or working on his ballroom dance skills.

Leave a Reply