What Is RDWeb?

If your software relies on Windows applications, you’ve probably heard of RDWeb — Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Web Access tool. But what exactly is RDWeb, what is it used for, and why are many Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) exploring alternatives like GO-Global? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is RDWeb?

RDWeb (Remote Desktop Web Access) is a Microsoft feature that allows users to access Windows-based applications or full desktops through a web browser. Essentially, it provides a web portal that connects users to a Remote Desktop Services (RDS) environment, so they can launch published applications remotely as if they were installed on their local device.

Instead of needing a dedicated remote desktop client, RDWeb makes it possible to access apps through a browser, giving organizations a simple way to deliver Windows applications to users anywhere with an internet connection.

What Is RDWeb Used For?

RDWeb is most commonly used to:

• Provide remote access to company applications and desktops from outside the office
  
  
• Deliver Windows applications to users without requiring local installations
  
  
• Support hybrid or remote work environments where users need to connect from multiple devices
  
  
• Enable IT administrators to manage and publish applications centrally
  
  

In short, it’s a way to make on-premises Windows applications available to end users over the web — a capability that’s become increasingly important in today’s cloud-centric world.

Who Primarily Uses RDWeb?

The typical users of RDWeb include:

• Enterprise IT teams managing internal RDS environments
  
  
• Managed Service Providers (MSPs) hosting Windows applications for their customers
  
  
• Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) looking for a way to deliver legacy desktop applications in a browser
  
  

While RDWeb is widely used in enterprise environments, ISVs often find it complex and costly to manage when trying to deliver their software to customers via the cloud.

{{CTAEMBED_IDENTIFIER}}

Why a Browser Experience for Windows Applications Matters

For many software vendors, providing access to Windows applications through a web browser is now essential. Browser-based access removes the friction of local installs, configuration, and version management. It allows users to:

• Log in from any device — Windows, Mac, Chromebook, or tablet
  
  
• Start using the application instantly — no setup required
  
  
• Get a consistent, controlled experience managed by the ISV or IT team
  
  

This not only improves the end-user experience but also simplifies deployment and support for software vendors and IT teams.

Common Issues and Complaints with RDWeb

Despite its usefulness, RDWeb comes with a number of drawbacks that can make it challenging — especially for ISVs:

1. Complex Configuration – Setting up and maintaining RDWeb, RD Gateway, and the associated RDS infrastructure is notoriously complicated and time-consuming.
   
   
2. High Licensing Costs – Microsoft RDS requires Client Access Licenses (CALs) and often additional server licensing, which adds up quickly.
   
   
3. Poor User Experience – The browser interface can be slow, clunky, and inconsistent across devices and browsers.
   
   
4. Limited Branding and Customization – RDWeb’s interface offers little flexibility for ISVs who want to deliver a branded experience.
   
   
5. Security Overhead – Managing secure gateways, certificates, and authentication layers requires specialized expertise.
   
   

These challenges often leave ISVs looking for simpler, more cost-effective ways to deliver their applications to customers over the web.

Why ISVs Should Consider GO-Global as an Alternative

GO-Global offers a modern alternative to RDWeb that’s purpose-built for Independent Software Vendors. Instead of requiring a full RDS stack, GO-Global provides a lightweight, browser-based delivery platform for Windows applications that’s simple to deploy, easy to manage, and delivers a superior user experience.

Here’s why GO-Global stands out:

For ISVs, this means faster deployment, lower costs, and happier customers who can access your software from anywhere, anytime, through a clean, responsive browser interface.

The Bottom Line

RDWeb remains a powerful tool for enterprises that already rely on Microsoft’s RDS ecosystem, but it’s often overkill for software vendors who just want a fast, reliable, browser-based way to deliver Windows applications.

GO-Global gives ISVs exactly that — a simpler, more user-friendly platform that provides all the benefits of remote access without the complexity or cost of RDS.

If you’re an ISV looking to modernize your software delivery and provide a seamless browser experience for your users, it’s time to explore GO-Global.

Are you 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.