A Citrix alternative that can be simpler to run
Parallels RAS is deployed to virtualise your applications and desktops, with an architecture matched to your budget and your usage.
Deployment and configuration of Parallels Remote Application Server.
Publication of applications and virtual desktops.
Integration with Azure, AWS and on-premises hypervisors, according to the agreed architecture.
Access configured for internal use or through your existing VPN (secure external access without a VPN is available as an option, see below).
Who is it for?
SMEs of 20 to 300 users looking for an alternative to Citrix.
Organisations that want to publish applications and desktops without high licence costs.
Organisations moving away from Terminal Server or Citrix to reduce costs.
Pricing by number of users
The price depends on the number of users to serve (sizing of RAS servers, application publishing, profile configuration). The starting price shown above covers up to 25 users on one RAS server. Deployments for 26 to 75 and for 76 to 150 users are priced in higher tiers. Beyond 150 users, the price is on request.
Parallels RAS or Proxmox VDI? Parallels RAS is the commercial solution, with simpler administration and the publication of applications and desktops. For virtual desktops on a tight budget, open source and without a per-seat licence, see our VDI on Proxmox service.
Option: secure external access without a VPN
By default, this service configures Parallels RAS for internal use or through your existing VPN. If you have no VPN and want to open access from outside, the Parallels Secure Gateway with multi-factor authentication (MFA) lets your staff connect from anywhere, with no VPN client to deploy and maintain on each device. This option is priced on request.
External access is not only for remote work. It can also let an outside contractor reach the application or desktop they need without being given general access to the company network. The Secure Gateway publishes only the planned scope, and MFA adds an extra check at sign-in.
The option is studied after analysing the existing architecture, DNS, certificates, identity solution and the number of users concerned. The quote sets out the scope, prerequisites and external access tests. If your VPN already meets the need, the standard Parallels RAS deployment remains the simplest solution.
How it works
Audit: analysis of usage, the estate and virtualisation needs.
Architecture: sizing, hosting choice and schedule.
Deployment: Parallels RAS installation and application publishing.
Tests: multi-device validation, performance and user profiles.
Go-live: commissioning, administrator training and documentation.
The deployment is carried out remotely, on the servers or cloud tenancy you make available. Tests with your users are scheduled in your working hours; an on-site visit is possible on quote.
Deliverables
A working Parallels RAS infrastructure within the agreed scope.
Applications and desktops published and available remotely.
Architecture documentation and operating procedures.
Administrator training (2 hours, by video call).
14 days of post-delivery support for questions and minor adjustments related to the Parallels RAS scope delivered.
Parallels, Microsoft, RDS and cloud licences are not included unless explicitly stated on the quote.
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Does Parallels RAS perform as well as Citrix? It depends on the chosen architecture, the published applications, the network, storage, user profiles and sizing. Parallels RAS covers the essential features with simpler administration and a licence cost that is often lower; Citrix keeps the edge on some advanced functions.
Can we migrate gradually from Citrix? It depends on the existing Citrix architecture, published applications, user profiles, access and network constraints. The two solutions can coexist during a transition planned by user groups; a complex Citrix migration requires a separate study and quote.
Which devices are supported? Parallels RAS offers native clients for PCs, Macs, tablets, smartphones and thin clients. Actual compatibility depends on the devices included in the scope: it does not cover every possible device.
Can we reach Parallels RAS from outside without a VPN? Yes, as an option. By default the deployment targets internal use or your existing VPN. If you have no VPN, the external access option configures the Parallels Secure Gateway with multi-factor authentication, for access from anywhere with no VPN client to manage. If you already have a VPN, this option usually adds nothing: access goes through your existing tunnel.
How is the Secure Gateway and MFA option priced? On quote, after analysing the architecture, the MFA provider, certificates, DNS and the number of users to open access to. These factors change the configuration and testing time, so the quote fixes the scope before any work starts.
How far does the 14-day support after deployment go? It covers questions and minor adjustments related to the Parallels RAS scope delivered. It does not cover day-to-day administration, continuous monitoring, on-call duty, recurring user support, any performance or availability guarantee, compatibility with every device, or fixing business applications outside the scope.