Month: February 2025

Cloud services have become the foundation of how modern businesses operate. Whether it’s accessing data, running applications, or managing teams remotely, the change to cloud computing has changed how organizations approach technology. Within this shift, two models stand out: Software as a Service (SaaS) and Desktop as a Service (DaaS).

Both offer unique advantages, but they serve very different needs. SaaS delivers specific software tools through the internet, while DaaS provides full desktop environments hosted in the cloud.

This article provides a complete DaaS vs SaaS comparison and explores both models—what they are, how they work, and what sets them apart.

 

What Is SaaS and How Does It Work?

Software as a Service (SaaS) is one of the most common forms of cloud computing used today. In simple terms, it allows you to access software applications through an internet connection, without installing or maintaining them locally. These apps are hosted and managed by a SaaS provider, who takes care of everything—from updates and backups to performance and security.

SaaS follows a subscription service model. You typically pay monthly or annually to use the software, often on a per-user or per-seat basis. This makes it predictable and easy to scale.

Common SaaS apps include tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and Dropbox. You can use them from virtually any device—laptops, tablets, even phones—because the application and data are stored in the cloud, not on your machine.

For businesses, SaaS offers quick deployment and low overhead. You get access to modern tools without worrying about underlying servers, storage, or updates. But with that convenience comes limited control over the environment and customization options.

 

What Is DaaS and How Does It Work?

Desktop as a Service (DaaS) takes a different approach to cloud computing. Instead of offering just individual applications, it provides full virtual desktops—complete with an operating system, applications, files, and settings—all streamed from the cloud.

A DaaS provider handles the desktop infrastructure, including servers, storage, and security. You simply connect to a DaaS desktop session using any internet-connected device. Once connected, you’re in a familiar desktop environment, just like you would be on a local machine. Whether it’s Windows, macOS, or Linux, DaaS supports multiple operating systems to fit diverse user needs.

This model is especially useful for remote teams, educational institutions, or companies with flexible workforces. It reduces the need for physical hardware while still delivering the computing power and applications users rely on.

Since the provider manages the heavy lifting, your internal IT team can focus on strategic initiatives instead of maintenance. DaaS gives you centralized control, better security, and the ability to scale desktop access up or down based on demand—all without the complexity of traditional desktop setups.

 

DaaS vs SaaS: How Are SaaS and DaaS Different?

Though both are cloud-based service models, SaaS and DaaS serve different functions. SaaS delivers access to individual software applications, while DaaS provides an entire virtual desktop environment over the internet.

Here’s how they compare:

Feature	SaaS	DaaS
Delivers	Software	Full Desktop
Device Dependency	Low	Moderate
Data Storage	Hosted by provider	Hosted by provider or user
Customization	Limited	More control
Use Cases	Business apps	Full work environments

 

SaaS is ideal when you need a specific tool—like email, file storage, or customer management software. It’s fast to deploy and requires very little configuration. DaaS, on the other hand, replicates a full computer in the cloud, making it suitable for teams that need operating systems, access to multiple tools, or centralized desktop management.

The key differences lie in control, flexibility, and the depth of the user experience. Where SaaS simplifies access to one task, DaaS enables a broader, more customizable workspace.

 

Which One Gives You More Control?

If you need flexibility in how desktops are managed, updated, or secured, DaaS offers more options. IT teams can configure desktop infrastructure, install specific apps, and control how data is stored or backed up.

SaaS, while convenient, often limits customization. You’re confined to what the software provider allows—functionality is dictated by the vendor, not your internal policies.

With DaaS, you gain more control over data security, access rights, and the overall system environment. This makes it a better fit for organizations that want to maintain oversight of how tools and files are used—especially in regulated or compliance-heavy industries.

 

How Do Cost and Scalability Compare Between DaaS and SaaS?

Both SaaS and DaaS follow a subscription service model, but how you’re charged can differ significantly.

SaaS pricing is usually per app or per user. It’s simple and cost-effective if you only need one or two tools. But if your team uses multiple apps, those subscriptions can add up quickly.

DaaS pricing often bundles computing resources, licensing, and infrastructure into a single monthly cost. It can be more expensive up front—but also more efficient when supporting teams or remote staff who need full desktop functionality.

In terms of scalability, cloud-based services like DaaS are designed to flex. You can quickly provision or remove desktops as your workforce grows or shifts—making it particularly cost-effective for hybrid or seasonal teams.

 

What Are the Security Considerations for Each?

Security is a key concern for any cloud-based service, and both SaaS and DaaS approach it differently.

With SaaS, your data lives entirely in the hands of the third-party vendor. While major SaaS providers have strong security protocols, you have limited visibility into how data is managed or stored.

DaaS enables desktop virtualization with multiple layers of control. You can set granular user permissions, enforce access rules, and even implement Zero Trust architecture—a framework where access is constantly verified, not assumed.

Providers like Apporto offer these advanced security measures out of the box, helping organizations reduce risk without increasing complexity. DaaS lets you manage both the data load and user interaction more securely.

 

How Do DaaS and SaaS Fit into the Broader Cloud Computing Model?

Both SaaS and DaaS are part of the larger cloud computing model, which also includes Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS).

SaaS sits at the top of the stack—it’s the easiest to use and requires the least maintenance. Just sign in and go.

DaaS, by contrast, builds on IaaS services. It runs on virtual machines and cloud storage, offering full desktops streamed over the web. You don’t manage the hardware, but you still have control over software and configurations.

Think of SaaS as providing access to one tool, while DaaS gives you the entire workspace. Together, they offer flexible options for different types of users and business needs.

 

When Should You Use DaaS Instead of SaaS?

SaaS works well when you only need access to a specific software application. But if your team needs a more complete and customizable environment, DaaS is the better fit.

Here are a few situations where DaaS makes more sense:

• You need to deliver a consistent desktop experience across different platforms
• Teams require access to development tools, enterprise apps, or software that doesn’t run in a browser
• You want to consolidate management and reduce local IT support needs
• Your business serves multiple developers, analysts, or power users
• You’re in education, healthcare, or government, and need strict control over desktop infrastructure

In these scenarios, DaaS offers the depth, flexibility, and security that SaaS alone can’t provide.

 

Why Apporto Is the Right DaaS Provider for Modern Teams

Apporto offers a modern take on Desktop as a Service, designed to eliminate the hassle of managing infrastructure or maintaining software locally. Everything runs through a browser-based interface, making setup fast and access effortless.

What sets Apporto apart:

• No installations, no VPNs, no updates to manage
• Seamless performance across any internet-connected device
• Support for Windows, Mac, and Linux, with full 4K @ 60fps capability
• Built-in Zero Trust security architecture to protect user data and access
• Tailored for education and SMBs that need flexibility without complexity

It’s a powerful, scalable desktop solution—without the heavy lifting of traditional virtual desktop infrastructure.

 

Conclusion: DaaS vs SaaS — Which Cloud Service Is Right for You?

While SaaS delivers quick access to specific tools, DaaS offers a complete, flexible workspace in the cloud. The right choice depends on what your teams need—whether it’s a single app or a full computing environment.

The shift toward cloud-first operations means rethinking not just the tools you use, but how you access and manage them. Matching the right service model to your business application is key.

Want to test drive secure, cloud-delivered desktops? Try Apporto now and experience the DaaS difference.

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is the backbone of remote access on Windows systems. It lets you connect to another computer and work as if you were sitting in front of it. But here’s the problem: the default RDP port—3389—is widely known and heavily targeted by attackers.

Leaving this port unchanged is like leaving your front door unlocked because the key is too common. In this guide, you’ll learn how to change the RDP port safely, reduce exposure, and add a layer of obscurity that can help secure your remote desktop access.

 

What Is the Default RDP Port Number and Why Should You Care?

When you use Remote Desktop to connect to another system, your connection request travels through a specific channel known as a port. For RDP, that channel is port 3389. It’s the default across all Windows devices.

That predictability is exactly what makes it vulnerable. Automated bots and malicious actors often scan networks for open port 3389. Once they find one, they launch brute-force attacks—repeated login attempts to gain unauthorized access.

Changing the port won’t stop a targeted attack, but it does lower your chances of being randomly hit. Think of it as moving the lock from the front door to a side entrance with fewer visitors. It’s not bulletproof security, but it’s practical defense.

 

When Should You Change the Remote Desktop Port?

You don’t need to change the RDP port every time you set up a Windows machine. But certain conditions make it a smart move.

If you’re managing a terminal server, especially one exposed to the internet, sticking with the default port leaves you wide open. Small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and academic IT teams often operate with limited cybersecurity resources, making basic preventive steps like this especially valuable.

Changing the port is also useful when dealing with Windows Server environments that support multiple users or allow external access. It’s not just about hiding—it’s about narrowing your attack surface in a world where every open port is a potential invitation.

 

How Do You Back Up the Windows Registry Before Making Changes?

Editing the Windows Registry can feel routine—but a small mistake can lead to serious issues. That’s why backing up the registry before making changes isn’t just a precaution. It’s essential.

To do this safely:

• Open the Start Menu, type regedit, and press Enter.
• In the Registry Editor, click File > Export.
• Choose a location and file name, then select “All” under Export range.
• Click Save.

This gives you a full backup of your registry, so if anything goes wrong, you can restore your system to its previous state quickly and without stress.

 

Where in the Registry Can You Find the RDP Port Setting?

The RDP port setting lives in a very specific place inside the Windows Registry. You’ll find it by navigating to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlTerminal ServerWinStationsRDP-Tcp

Each part of this path matters. The Control branch governs system behavior. Terminal Server manages remote access settings, and WinStations handles session-specific details. Finally, RDP-Tcp is the actual configuration point for RDP connections.

Inside this key, look for a value named PortNumber. That’s the setting controlling which port Windows uses for incoming remote desktop connections. Once you locate it, you’re ready to change it—but only after you’ve completed the backup.

 

How to Change the RDP Port Using Registry Editor

Once you’ve backed up your registry and found the correct path, you can safely update the RDP port:

1. In Registry Editor, double-click the PortNumber entry in the RDP-Tcp key.
2. A small dialog box appears—make sure to select the Decimal option.
3. Enter your new port number. Choose something higher than 1024 and not already in use. For example, 4455 or 3390 are common alternatives.
4. Click OK to save the value.

Avoid using ports assigned to other services or applications. Conflicting port numbers can block services or cause connection errors. After saving, close the Registry Editor. The port is now technically changed, but the system won’t recognize it until after a restart.

 

What Firewall Rules Should You Update for the New Port?

Changing the RDP port in the registry isn’t enough on its own. If Windows Firewall doesn’t know to allow traffic on the new port, your remote desktop connection will fail.

Here’s what to do:

1. Open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
2. Go to Inbound Rules > New Rule.
3. Select Port, then click Next.
4. Choose TCP and enter your new RDP port number under Specific local ports.
5. Select Allow the connection.
6. Apply the rule to the appropriate profiles: Domain, Private, and/or Public, depending on your environment.

This ensures your connection request reaches the right destination. Without this step, Windows will continue blocking traffic—even if your registry setting is correct.

 

How Do You Connect with a Remote Desktop Client After the Change?

Once the new port is set and firewall rules are in place, update your connection format. Use the syntax:

IPaddress:NewPort

For example: 192.168.0.25:4455

This tells the Remote Desktop Connection tool which port to use when initiating the session. You can also save this configuration in the connection settings to avoid entering it manually each time.

 

What Should You Check Before Restarting the System?

Before rebooting, make sure all changes are complete:

• Verify that your inbound rule is active.
• Double-check the PortNumber entry in the registry.
• Run netstat -a or open Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Advanced Settings to confirm port status.

Then restart the system. This allows the RDP service to pick up the new configuration and route traffic accordingly.

 

Can You Change the RDP Port Using PowerShell?

Yes, PowerShell is a fast alternative to manually editing the registry—especially useful when managing multiple Windows Server machines.

Here’s a simplified command:

Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:SystemCurrentControlSetControlTerminal ServerWinStationsRDP-Tcp" -Name "PortNumber" -Value 4455

This sets the new port directly. Just be sure to update your firewall rules and restart the server afterward.

 

What to Do If Your Remote Desktop Connection Fails After the Change

Connection issues are usually easy to resolve. Start with the basics:

• Confirm you’re entering the correct IP and new port number.
• Ensure your firewall rule wasn’t skipped or misconfigured.
• Verify that you made changes with administrator access.
• Open services.msc and check that the Remote Desktop Services are running.

One small oversight—like forgetting to switch from hexadecimal to decimal in the registry—can block access. Review each step carefully before troubleshooting deeper.

 

Why Apporto Is a Smarter Alternative to Traditional RDP

Manual RDP port changes, firewall configurations, and registry edits are manageable—but they’re also a burden. Apporto eliminates all of that.

With Apporto, there’s:

• No registry editing.
• No open ports to monitor.
• No firewall headaches.

It’s a browser-based virtual desktop platform built with Zero Trust security and seamless remote desktop access across any device. Whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux, Apporto supports full performance—up to 4K @ 60fps, with support for multi-monitor setups and real-time collaboration.

It’s ideal for SMBs and educational institutions that want security, scalability, and simplicity—without the overhead of legacy setups.

 

Conclusion: Ready to Take Control of Your Remote Access?

Changing the RDP TCP port is a smart first step toward better remote access security. Just remember to back up your registry, update firewall rules, and test everything before going live.

If you’re looking for an easier, more secure alternative, explore Apporto—a cloud-first solution that removes the complexity of traditional remote desktop management.

Skip the registry edits and firewall tweaks. Try Apporto now for secure, hassle-free remote access.