Get started with WorkSpaces advanced setup

In this tutorial, you learn how to provision a virtual, cloud-based Microsoft Windows or Amazon Linux desktop, known as a WorkSpace, by using WorkSpaces and AWS Directory Service.

This tutorial uses the advanced setup option to launch your WorkSpace.

Note

Advanced setup is supported in all Regions for WorkSpaces.

Before you begin

Before you begin, make sure you have an AWS account that you can use to create or administer a WorkSpace. Users don't need an AWS account to connect to and use their WorkSpaces.

Review and understand the following concepts before you proceed:

• When you launch a WorkSpace, you must select a WorkSpace bundle. For more information, see Amazon WorkSpaces Bundles.

• When you launch a WorkSpace, you must select which protocol (PCoIP or WorkSpaces Streaming Protocol [WSP]) you want to use with your bundle. For more information, see Protocols for Amazon WorkSpaces.

• When you launch a WorkSpace, you must specify profile information for the user, including a user name and email address. Users complete their profiles by specifying a password. Information about WorkSpaces and users is stored in a directory. For more information, see Manage directories for WorkSpaces.

Using advanced setup to launch your WorkSpace

To use advanced setup to launch your WorkSpace:

1. Open the WorkSpaces console at https://console.aws.amazon.com/workspaces/.

2. Choose one of the following directory types, and then choose Next:

   • AWS Managed Microsoft AD

   • Simple AD

   • AD Connector

3. Enter the directory information.

4. Choose two subnets in a VPC from two different availability zones. For more information, see Configure a VPC with public subnets.

5. Review your directory's information and choose Create directory.