If you’ve started looking into hosted desktop solutions, you’ll know it’s not always a straightforward decision. Between acronyms, platforms, and promises of flexibility, you’re essentially deciding how your team will access their workday – whether that’s in the office, at home, or anywhere else.
The two most talked-about routes? Azure Virtual Desktop and private cloud hosting. They aim to solve the same problem, but the way they go about it – and the kind of support you get – is very different.
Key Takeaways
- Azure and private cloud both offer hosted desktops – but they’re built, and managed very differently.
- Azure offers scalability, particularly for large enterprises but can be complex and cost-variable for mid-size firms
- Private cloud hosting is simpler, more secure, and purpose-built for firms like accountants.
- For teams that need consistent performance, human support, and predictable pricing – private cloud often makes more sense.
What Is Azure Virtual Desktop?
Microsoft’s Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) runs on the Azure cloud, which is a public cloud platform used by organisations around the world. To use it, you’ll manage your environment through the Azure portal, and you’ll need an Azure subscription to get set up.
AVD works well for companies already familiar with Azure or those with in-house IT teams. It integrates tightly with Microsoft 365 and gives users access through a lightweight client app. So, as long as your team has a stable connection, they can log in from almost anywhere.
The system is flexible and scales quickly – supporting multiple users through a shared virtual infrastructure. Azure can also be configured for multi session setups, where several users operate within a single virtual machine, helping reduce costs and centralise management.The flip side? Your monthly bill may vary depending on actual usage, and configuring it well usually takes someone who knows their way around the Azure ecosystem.
What Is Private Cloud Hosting?
Private cloud hosting gets you to the same destination – a secure, remotely accessible desktop – but takes a much simpler route.
Instead of relying on shared public cloud space, you’ll have your own dedicated infrastructure. Your desktops and applications are isolated, secure, and configured specifically for your business. That means no surprises, no noisy neighbours, and no guessing how your setup works.
A provider like Cloud2Me handles the setup, support, and maintenance. That includes everything from the operating system level to storage, access policies, and updates – all managed in the background.
It’s ideal for businesses that don’t want to become cloud experts overnight. You get the performance and flexibility, without the technical headache.
| Feature | Azure Virtual Desktop | Private Cloud Hosting |
| Platform | Shared public cloud via Azure | Dedicated, private infrastructure Managed entirely by hosting provider |
| Control | Requires internal Azure admin | Consistent, predictable |
| Security | Can vary depending on load and actual usage | Full isolation and transparency |
| Support | Shared responsibility | Direct, specialised support |
| Pricing | Varies by Azure partner | Fixed monthly cost, no surprise fees |
| Scalability | Usage-based and often variable Fast and flexible | Custom-fit but more structured |
Why Private Cloud Hosting Suits Accountants
If you’re running an accountancy practice, your software needs aren’t generic – they’re deeply specialised. You’re working with sensitive client data, handling payroll, tax, and audit files, and likely juggling multiple tools like IRIS, Sage, or TacCalc.
In that environment, you don’t want a system that’s overly complex or vulnerable to performance dips during peak hours.
Private cloud hosting supports you in ways Azure often can’t:
- It works out of the box with your accounting and business software
- It keeps your infrastructure costs steady and predictable
- It gives your team secure access through a remote desktop client or web login
- It comes with human support – the kind that understands busy season isn’t a good time for outages
And when your team starts their day, they don’t need a cheat sheet. One login, one double click, and they’re in.
Which One Makes Sense for You?
There’s no perfect answer. It comes down to your size, team setup, and appetite for managing infrastructure.
If you already live in Microsoft’s world and have the IT resources and expertise to back it up, Azure Virtual Desktop might be a solid match. But for firms that need simplicity, consistency, and desktops built around real daily workflow, with transparent pricing, then –private cloud hosting often fits better.
Exploring Private Cloud
Cloud2Me specialises in private cloud hosting for professional service firms. We set up, manage, and support your hosted desktops so you don’t have to think about them. It’s everything you need, and nothing you don’t.
If you’re curious how it could look for your team, let’s chat.
