Hosting provider UKFast has launched the next generation of its cloud-hosted desktop service, which enables businesses to log in to a desktop from anywhere in the world.
The newly designed platform will tackle the more intensive processes required by designers, creatives and architects.
The new service, called FASTdesk GPU, solves a common problem for professionals that require a powerful GPU (graphics processing unit), which traditionally requires a powerful desktop computer to operate.
“Cloud desktop applications enable businesses to evolve and meet the demands of their workforce,” said UKFast chief executive Lawrence Jones.
“It’s naïve to think that people want to complete their given tasks between certain hours or in certain locations.”
FASTdesk GPU is designed to run applications like Adobe Photoshop, 3D CAD, media composers and other graphics-intensive applications, with all the resource and performance on the cloud, rather than inside the machine.
UKFast CTO Neil Lathwood added: “To assemble the hardware for an equivalent machine would cost at least £10,000.
“On top of that we take care of all the maintenance, upgrades and backups. It also removes a serious security concern, eliminating the risk of data loss through the theft or loss of a device.”
Industry standard tests for measuring compute power show FASTdesk GPU delivering up to 34 times the speed of a standard CPU when performing image processing tasks, and up to 112 times when performing cryptography functions.
The solution is powered by NVIDIA GRID technology, combined with Nvidia Tesla P40 GPU’s and delivers 4GB GDDR5 graphics memory for each desktop.
“We all work the hours we choose and are often inspired outside of the hours of 9am and 5pm and want to work on ideas and pass them on to colleagues,” added Jones.
“FASTdesk GPU enables a new level of flexibility and allows you to work from the top of a mountain if you choose to.”
The news comes as UKFast reveals that its cloud desktop service – FASTdesk – now delivers £360,000 annual recurring revenue for the firm, having grown 161 per cent in H1 2018 compared to the same period last year.