Amazon AppStream 2.0
Stream desktop apps to the browser
Runs desktop applications (mainly Windows) on a fleet of AWS instances and streams the interface to users' browsers; users don't need to install anything or have a powerful machine.
- Cost$$ Medium
- Difficulty●●●●●
- Costs money when idle?Yes
- Managed by AWS
- In examsSAA
Think of it asLike watching a movie online: the software runs far away, and you just receive the picture and send your inputs.
When to use it
✓ Use it when
You need to deliver a few heavy or security-sensitive applications to many users without provisioning full virtual machines.
✗ Avoid it when
Users need a full personal desktop that keeps state long-term → WorkSpaces.
Common uses
- CAD/GIS software for students via the browser
- Software trials with no installation
- Secure access to internal applications for partners
What does it cost?
- Pricing model: Billed by the running hours of fleet instances (depending on fleet type and instance), plus a monthly per-user license fee for Windows applications.
⚠️ Cost traps
Setting the fleet's minimum capacity too high keeps instances running even with no users.
