SANTA CLARA, USA: Sun Microsystems, Inc. has announced the availability of a new cloud-based Desktop as a Service for educational institutions.

Sun and Ashbourne Technology Group (ATG) are now offering a secure, cost-effective computing solution delivered anytime, anywhere via the Internet that provides a rich, virtual desktop experience for all leading Operating Systems, including Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux and Solaris to nearly any client device, including Sun Ray thin clients and other platforms with Java-based browsers.

"Our new offering delivers the benefits of the emerging cloud computing model to the school desktop, providing huge savings for cash-strapped school systems" said Joe Hartley, vice president of Government, Education and Healthcare Sales, Sun Microsystems.

The Sun Ray device’s zero-maintenance and 4-5 watt power draw makes it one of the greenest desktop solutions on the market today. Sun also offers the Sun Ray technology with built-in VPN security so that parents, teachers and administrators can feel secure about the privacy and security of students on the network said a press release.

"Schools can escape from the desktop replacement cycle saving thousands of dollars per year while providing better access to need-to-know information. Plus, there are benefits to preserving the equipment you already have and keeping the familiar desktop environment, but now delivering it anytime and to anywhere" said Ivan Segal, chief executive officer from Ashbourne Technology Group, a Sun partner and service provider.