Options for an ISV Evaluating Move to Cloud

1. Lift and Shift to Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS): Migrate your existing Windows-based application to a cloud infrastructure provider such as Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), or Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This approach involves minimal changes to your application code and architecture, as you essentially replicate an on-premises environment in the cloud. While this may not provide all the benefits of a cloud-native solution, it allows you to take advantage of cloud scalability, reliability, and manageability.
2. Desktop Application Streaming:
   1. Cloud Native: Utilize cloud-native application streaming services (Platform-as-a-Service), like Amazon AppStream 2.0 or Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop, to deliver your Windows-based application to users via the cloud.
   2. ‍App Virtualization Software + Cloud Infrastructure: Build an app virtualization infrastructure in the cloud with app virtualization technology like GO-Global, Citrix, or VMWare. With either of these approaches, your application runs on cloud-hosted virtual machines, and users access it remotely through a web browser or client application. This allows you to offer a cloud-based experience without rewriting your application for the cloud.‍
3. Partner with a Cloud Hosting Provider: Collaborate with a cloud hosting provider, such as ISVHost, that specializes in hosting legacy applications in the cloud. These providers offer managed hosting services tailored to ISVs and can assist with migrating your application to the cloud with minimal disruption. By leveraging their expertise in cloud infrastructure and managed services, you can quickly offer a cloud-based version of your software without the need for extensive re-engineering.‍
4. Containerization and Orchestration: Containerize your application using technologies like Docker and Kubernetes, then deploy it to a cloud-based container orchestration platform like Amazon ECS, Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), or Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE). Containerization simplifies deployment and scaling while maintaining compatibility with your existing application architecture. While this approach may require some refactoring, it's less intrusive than rewriting your application from scratch.‍
5. Hybrid Cloud Deployment: Implement a hybrid cloud deployment model where part of your application remains on-premises while certain components are migrated to the cloud. This allows you to gradually transition to a cloud-based architecture without disrupting existing customers or workflows. You can start by moving non-critical or resource-intensive components to the cloud and gradually expand your cloud footprint over time.

Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on factors such as your specific application requirements, budget, timeline, and strategic objectives. Consider consulting with cloud experts or specialized service providers like ISVHost to evaluate your options and determine the most suitable approach for your needs.