RDS Alternatives for Accounting Applications in 2026

Many accounting software vendors have successfully transformed their Windows-based applications into cloud-hosted offerings. However, a large number still rely on Remote Desktop Services (RDS) as the delivery mechanism behind the scenes. While RDS helped bridge the gap between desktop software and SaaS delivery, many ISVs are now looking for alternatives that reduce complexity, improve user experience, and lower costs.

If you're an accounting software vendor evaluating life after RDS, here are the leading options to consider.

1. GO-Global (Top Choice for Accounting ISVs)

GO-Global from GraphOn is purpose-built for publishing Windows applications without requiring a full desktop environment. Instead of delivering an entire Windows session, GO-Global delivers only the accounting application.

Pros

• Lower infrastructure requirements than RDS
• Reduced licensing costs
• Simpler architecture and administration
• Supports Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Provides a SaaS-like experience without rewriting the application
• Optimized for multi-user ISV environments

Cons

• Focused specifically on application delivery rather than full desktop virtualization
  For accounting ISVs, GO-Global strikes the best balance between cost, simplicity, and user experience.

2. Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Microsoft's Azure Virtual Desktop is a popular cloud-based virtualization platform.

Pros

• Deep Azure integration
• Flexible deployment options
• Familiar Microsoft ecosystem

Cons

• Can be complex to architect and manage
• Higher infrastructure costs
• Delivers desktops rather than just applications
• Requires Azure expertise
  AVD is powerful but often more infrastructure-heavy than accounting ISVs need.

3. Citrix Virtual Apps

Citrix remains a major player in application and desktop virtualization.

Pros

• Enterprise-grade capabilities
• Advanced management controls
• Strong security features

Cons

• Expensive licensing
• Complex implementation and maintenance
• Significant infrastructure requirements
  Citrix is often best suited for very large enterprise environments.

4. Parallels RAS

Parallels RAS provides remote application and desktop delivery with a simpler deployment model.

Pros

• Easier administration than Citrix
• Lower licensing costs
• Supports application publishing

Cons

• Less optimized for ISV-specific SaaS delivery
• Smaller ecosystem and market adoption
  Parallels can be a good middle-ground solution but lacks the ISV focus of GO-Global.

The Bottom Line

Accounting software vendors need more than remote access. They need a delivery platform that supports multi-tenant environments, reduces operational overhead, and creates a seamless experience for customers.

While Azure Virtual Desktop, Citrix, and Parallels all have strengths, GO-Global stands out as the best RDS alternative for accounting ISVs. It delivers the simplicity, scalability, and cost efficiency needed to operate a successful SaaS offering without the burden of maintaining a complex RDS infrastructure.

Are you an accounting application vendor or an ISV exploring cloud-based application delivery? Contact us to learn how GO-Global can help you streamline software access for your end users. Or download a free trial to test it yourself.