# Scaling

## Scaling Configuration

Parallels DaaS automatically manages the power state of virtual machines based on demand, helping you balance performance and cost. This is controlled by your organization’s **business hours** and **expected user activity**.

{% hint style="info" %}
Virtual machines will only be started if a Desktop or Application is published / enabled for end users to save costs. 
{% endhint %}

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### Accessing the Scaling Settings

To configure scaling:

1. Sign in to the **Parallels DaaS Management Portal**.
2. Navigate to:\
   `Virtual Machines > Scaling`

### Business Hours

Settings in this section apply during your defined business days and hours.

#### Time Zone

> Set the time zone in which your business hours apply.

#### Business Days

> Select the days users typically work (e.g., Monday to Friday).

#### Business Hours

> Specify the active working hours (e.g., 09:00–17:00).

#### Instant Access Users (Business Hours)

> Define the expected number of concurrent users during business hours.\
> This ensures that enough virtual machines are pre-started for instant access.

### Outside Business Hours

Settings here apply during off-hours (e.g., evenings, weekends).

#### Instant Access Users (Off Hours)

> Set the number of users expected during off-peak times.\
> Tip: Set this to `0` to enable on-demand startup and reduce costs.

#### Force Sign-Out Users

> Automatically sign out users after business hours to save on resource costs.

#### Delay Before Force Sign-Out

> Configure a grace period (in minutes) before forcefully signing out users.

#### Sign-Out Notification

> Enter a custom message to display before signing out users forcefully.

### Idle Shutdown

#### Disable When Idle

> Automatically shut down idle environments during or outside business hours.\
> Set the inactivity timeout (in minutes) to define when an environment is considered idle.

### Best Practices

* Use the `0 users outside business hours` setting for cost-optimized environments.
* Always set a clear sign-out message to prevent confusion or data loss.
* Combine idle shutdown with scheduled business hours for maximum savings.


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