End-user computing is about to undergo a profound transformation (EUC). In fact, it is predicted that there will be more than 50 billion connected devices by 2023. An enormous number of end-user devices must be managed, secured, and optimised in order to provide the effective, high-performance experience that today’s users expect.
But, let’s face it, EUC regulations are frequently complex and expensive for today’s businesses.
Due to the large number of mobile and remote workers, upgrading and managing endpoints can become a massive IT burden.
Given the growing number of security threats, ongoing OS (Operating System) migration requirements, and mounting financial pressures, EUC may be IT’s most difficult challenge.
Furthermore, it suggests that EUC is ready for innovation. With recent advancements that can extend the lifespan of expensive laptops and desktop systems, ensure consistent updates, and improve security controls, IT may soon be able to get off the EUC management treadmill and view the endpoint as just another link in the digital transformation value chain.
What is the source of the commotion in EUC? Consider the following transformative drivers:
1. Extensive employee mobility
The modern employee can work from any device and from any location. According to a recent Gallup poll, 43 percent of employees work remotely on occasions. These workers use a variety of devices. While only 14% of workers use six or more devices, the average employee uses 2.3 devices to complete tasks.
What isn’t often considered is how this trend towards workplace mobility affects the complexity of endpoint management.
IT can implement granular policy control to streamline device support and reduce costs by streamlining device management and operations with a unified management solution that is hardware and device type independent. Furthermore, they can improve overall user experience.
2. The permanent state of migration
Even though most IT departments prefer not to think about it, the end-of-support date for Windows 10 is rapidly approaching.
It will be necessary to upgrade to Windows 11 at some point. After upgrading to Windows 11, you’ll almost certainly need to make another significant transfer.
OS transitions can be completely insane for both IT and users. The confusion will only worsen as the frequency of Windows 11 upgrades increases to every six months. Endpoint major migrations should not be required every six months.
Instead, the endpoint operating system should be updated automatically over the air, with minimal help desk interaction and without interfering with the user’s experience.
Following that, it should connect to whatever virtual environment is required for a user to remain productive on whatever device they choose. As a result, users can get what they need without having to deal with lengthy device transfers and can enjoy a more comfortable, productive experience.
3. Endpoint security vulnerabilities
Endpoint devices are particularly vulnerable to cybersecurity risks because they are not subject to strict policy controls or routine patching and updating.
To avoid these threats, users must rely on endpoint devices with embedded security that are virus and malware resistant, as well as enable automatic support for security mechanisms such as two-factor authentication, smart card readers, and others. One example would be hospitals that use Imprivata technology to provide tap-and-go authentication in conjunction with password or biometrics.
4. EUC management restrictions
Managing a large estate of endpoints has historically been expensive and time-consuming. Some organisations have large teams dedicated to this sole purpose. However, not every organisation is willing to invest in such a large staff for EUC operations. The high cost of endpoint management is causing massive disruption in the way EUC is designed.
New paradigms are emerging, such as desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) and the cloud workspace, to empower users while freeing endpoint management teams. These cloud-based desktops provide enhanced management efficiency, security, and policy control for desktop applications.
Remote support, zero-touch deployment, and simple central management are already available. Even down to the hardware layer, solutions can now provide detailed visibility into user experience and application performance.
The EUC market is already being disrupted by innovations that will make endpoint computing more productive, cost-effective, and secure. Users will demand it as the number of end user devices grows exponentially.
Related: New Zealand Government creates a roadmap for New Zealand tech sector
