What is Amazon AppStream 2.0?
Amazon AppStream 2.0 is a fully managed application streaming service that provides users with instant access to their desktop applications from anywhere. Unlike WorkSpaces (which gives a full desktop), AppStream focuses on streaming specific applications to a web browser on any device.
Key Concepts
1. Application Streaming
- Stream legacy or modern desktop apps (CAD, SAP, Windows apps) to HTML5 browsers.
- No plugins or client installation required.
2. Non-Persistent
- Sessions are generally non-persistent. When a user closes the session, the instance is terminated.
- Application Settings Persistence: Can be configured to save user customization to S3.
3. Usage Types
- On-Demand: Instances are launched when users request them (1-2 min start time, cheaper).
- Always-On: Instant access, but you pay for running instances even if idle.
Exam Tips
[!IMPORTANT] "SaaS-ify legacy apps": If you have a Windows desktop app and want to deliver it as a SaaS solution to customers via a browser without rewriting code, choose AppStream 2.0.
[!TIP] Think "Apps in Browser". If the user needs access to a specific application on a Chromebook or tablet, use AppStream.
Common Use Cases
- Software Trials: Let customers try your desktop software instantly via a browser link.
- Education: Provide students with access to lab software (SolidWorks, MATLAB) from their own laptops.
- Design & Engineering: Stream GPU-intensive apps to lightweight devices.