Are you struggling with the limitations of running ArcGIS Pro on standard work laptops? It’s time to consider a cloud-based solution. Amazon AppStream 2.0 offers a game-changing approach to deploying ArcGIS Pro, bringing numerous benefits to your organization.
Why Move ArcGIS Pro to AWS?
Cloud-based ArcGIS Pro eliminates the need for powerful, expensive hardware at each workstation. Users can access the application from any device with an internet connection, enabling flexible remote work. IT teams can centrally manage and update the software, ensuring all users have the latest version without individual installations.
Data security improves as sensitive GIS data remains in the cloud rather than on local machines. For organizations dealing with large datasets or complex GIS tasks, AppStream 2.0 provides scalable, on-demand resources. This solution leads to cost savings, improved collaboration, and greater operational efficiency.
Steps to Setup AppStream for ArcGIS Pro
Before diving into AppStream 2.0, you’ll need to, of course, set up your AWS account. Start by creating the necessary network resources. This includes:
- Creating an Amazon VPC with public and private subnets
- You can use a CloudFormation template I created with Amazon Q to automate this process.
- Setting up identity management – usually Active Directory (AD)
Creating an AppStream 2.0 Image Builder
The next step is to create an image builder, which is an EC2 instance used to install and configure ArcGIS Pro for streaming. You’ll:
- Launch an image builder from a base image
- Connect to the image builder using remote desktop
- Install and configure ArcGIS Pro
- Join the image to Active Directory, if using AD.
Creating Your AppStream 2.0 Image
Once ArcGIS Pro is installed, you’ll use the Image Assistant to:
- Create an application catalog
- Optimize launch performance
- Configure image settings
- Create the final image for deployment
Provisioning a Fleet
With your image ready, you’ll set up a fleet of instances to stream ArcGIS Pro. This involves:
- Choosing the appropriate instance type (e.g., Graphics Design instances for 3D workloads)
- Configuring fleet capacity and scaling policies
- Setting up network configurations
Creating a Stack and Managing User Access
The final steps in the deployment process include:
- Creating an AppStream 2.0 stack, which combines your fleet with user access policies
- Setting up user management through AppStream 2.0’s user pool or integrating with your existing identity provider
- Configuring persistent storage
Enhance Your GIS Workflow with AWS File Storage
Moving your file server to AWS alongside ArcGIS Pro on AppStream 2.0 further optimizes your GIS workflow. AWS offers multiple file storage options that integrate seamlessly with AppStream 2.0:
- Amazon FSx for Windows File Server: A fully managed native Windows file system, ideal for Windows-based environments.
- Amazon S3 and AWS Storage Gateway: Object storage for large amounts of GIS data that can be synched with on-prem storage and creates hybrid storage solution good for migration.
These options provide flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for your GIS data management needs. All allow integration with Active Directory and utilizing a file share similar to what you are moving away from on-prem
Streamline User Management with AWS Directory Service
Transitioning to AWS presents an opportunity to move your Active Directory to the cloud, benefiting your entire organization. AWS Directory Service offers a fully managed, highly available Microsoft Active Directory in the AWS Cloud.
This service simplifies user management, enhances security with features like multi-factor authentication, and enables single sign-on across AWS services and applications. It eliminates the need for on-premises domain controllers, reducing IT overhead and improving reliability.
By moving ArcGIS Pro, file storage, and Active Directory to AWS, you create a cohesive, scalable, and secure IT infrastructure for your organization.
Take Action Now
Tech Reformers, an AWS partner, recently helped a public sector organization successfully migrate their ArcGIS Pro environment, file servers, and Active Directory to AWS. Our team of experts can guide you through this transformative process, tailoring the solution to your specific needs.
Don’t let outdated infrastructure hold back your GIS capabilities. Try it yourself with guidance from ESRI or contact Tech Reformers to learn how we can help you leverage the power of AWS for your ArcGIS Pro deployment and beyond. Let’s unlock the full potential of your GIS workflow together.
