Technology

A beginner's guide to our cloud-based desktop solution with server virtualization and ultra-low latency video streaming

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In this paper, we present a beginner-friendly explanation of Preset, a cloud-based workstation solution that enables companies to access configurable workstations from any connected device. We'll discuss the technical aspects of Preset, including server virtualization and ultra-low latency video streaming. Our goal is to provide a clear understanding of how Preset delivers a seamless, scalable, and cost-effective solution for businesses in need of a flexible, high-performance computing environment.

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Introduction

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Imagine having a powerful computer that you can access from anywhere, at any time, and from any device. That's what Preset does! We use advanced technologies to give businesses a flexible and high-performance computing environment that can be accessed remotely. In this paper, we'll explain how Preset works, including server virtualization and ultra-low latency video streaming.

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System Architecture

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Custom infrastructure and Interxion Data Centers

Preset's infrastructure is based on custom-designed server hardware and software, which are hosted in Interxion Data Centers. Interxion is a leading provider of carrier and cloud-neutral colocation data center services in Europe, known for their advanced power and cooling systems, physical security measures, and high-capacity network connectivity. The strategic deployment of our servers in these data centers allows Preset to provide low-latency, high-bandwidth access to our users across the globe.

Network connectivity and redundancy

Preset's custom infrastructure is interconnected with multiple Tier 1 network providers through diverse peering points to guarantee high-speed and low-latency connectivity for users. Our network topology is built on a redundant mesh architecture, employing multiple links and redundant network devices (such as routers and switches) to ensure high availability and fault tolerance. Furthermore, our infrastructure incorporates redundant uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), backup generators, and cooling systems to mitigate risks associated with hardware failures or network issues.

Server virtualization, containerization, and orchestration

Preset employs a combination of server virtualization and containerization technologies to efficiently manage and utilize our custom infrastructure. Server virtualization, as discussed earlier, is achieved through the use of a Type 1 hypervisor, which allows us to create multiple isolated virtual machines (VMs) on a single physical server.

In addition to virtualization, Preset leverages containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes. Docker containers are lightweight, portable units that encapsulate application code, runtime, system tools, libraries, and settings, ensuring consistent execution across different computing environments. Kubernetes is an open-source container orchestration platform that automates the deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications. By using containerization and orchestration, Preset can efficiently allocate resources, streamline application deployment, and improve the scalability of our infrastructure.

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Server Virtualization

Server virtualization is like having multiple computers inside a single physical computer. Each "virtual" computer can run its own operating system and applications, allowing many tasks to run at the same time on one physical machine. This helps make better use of computer resources, simplifies management, and improves scalability.

To create these virtual computers, we use a piece of software called a hypervisor. The hypervisor acts as a manager that separates the physical hardware from the virtual machines (VMs) running on top of it. It's responsible for giving each VM the resources it needs, like CPU power, memory, and storage, while making sure they don't interfere with each other.

Virtual Machine Management (VMM)

Preset has a powerful VM management system that sets up and manages VMs as needed. Users can customize their workstation environment, and the system will automatically create a VM with the required configuration. Preset's VM management system also has advanced features like live migration, snapshotting, and cloning to make managing virtual workstations even easier.

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Resource allocation and scheduling

Preset's resource allocation system makes sure each VM gets the CPU power and memory it needs. It does this by using policies and real-time monitoring to distribute resources fairly and efficiently among VMs. Techniques like CPU pinning, reservation, and shares help prevent resource contention and ensure a smooth experience for all users.

Storage management

Preset supports different types of storage, like block, file, and object storage, to provide flexibility for different workloads. We also use advanced storage features like thin provisioning, tiering, and deduplication to optimize storage utilization and performance.

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Ultra-Low Latency Video Streaming

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To provide a smooth and responsive user experience, Preset uses ultra-low latency video streaming. This means that the video of your remote workstation is sent to your device quickly and with minimal delay.

Video encoding

Preset uses a video codec called H.265/HEVC, which is very good at compressing video without losing quality. This means we can send high-quality video using less bandwidth, making the streaming experience faster and more efficient.

Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABS)

Preset also uses adaptive bitrate streaming (ABS) to make the video streaming even better. ABS adjusts the video quality based on your internet connection, so you always get the best possible video without buffering or delays.

Video streaming protocols

Preset supports various video streaming protocols, such as WebRTC, RTMP, and HLS, to ensure compatibility with different devices and network conditions. WebRTC, in particular, is well-suited for ultra-low latency video streaming due to its peer-to-peer architecture and built-in support for advanced codecs like H.265/HEVC.

Latency optimization techniques

To minimize latency, Preset employs various optimization techniques, including just-in-time (JIT) packet scheduling, forward error correction (FEC), and congestion control algorithms. These techniques work together to ensure smooth, uninterrupted video streaming with minimal latency.

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Security and compliance

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Preset's custom infrastructure benefits from the advanced security measures provided by Interxion Data Centers, which include multi-layered physical access control systems, 24/7 video surveillance, and sophisticated fire detection and suppression systems. On the software side, Preset employs cryptographic techniques, such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) for data-in-transit encryption and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for data-at-rest encryption, to protect user data. We also implement strong authentication and authorization mechanisms, as well as adhere to various regulatory requirements, including GDPR and HIPAA, to cater to the needs of different industries.

Monitoring and analytics

To ensure the optimal performance and reliability of our custom infrastructure, Preset employs a comprehensive monitoring and analytics system that includes metrics collection, log aggregation, and real-time analysis. By continuously monitoring the health of our infrastructure, VMs, and video streaming, we can proactively identify potential issues, such as resource contention, network congestion, or hardware failures, and take corrective actions to maintain a smooth and uninterrupted user experience. Our monitoring and analytics system also provides valuable insights into system performance, allowing us to optimize resource utilization and make informed decisions regarding future infrastructure upgrades and expansions.

This is how Preset manages to offer workstations in the cloud and access them on any device via a simple web browser.