Published , by Chris Jarrard
Published , by Chris Jarrard
Earlier today, Microsoft officially announced Windows 365, a service aimed at business and enterprise customers that allows for easy access to cloud-based virtual PCs. The service will allow customers to instantly access virtual Windows 10 or 11 desktops through a web browser or other devices like tablets and smartphones. Windows 365 is expected to launch on August 2, with pricing and other details to be announced at that time.
While remote desktop access and virtual machines have been a common thing for many years now, Microsoft is betting that many businesses and workplaces will find lots of value in its subscription-based cloud PC service. Windows 365 promises to offer easy access to virtual desktops that can be pre-loaded with a user’s personal apps, data, and settings. A consistent experience across any type of device is one of the project’s goals, according to Microsoft. Having cloud-hosted PCs also allow remote employees to get to work without the need for configuring VPNs and other hassles related to ensuring workplace security.
Windows 365 is designed to be flexible, offering the flexibility to quickly scale up on the number of virtual desktops during busy periods. Bypassing the time and effort needed to set up multiple physical machines could be a big benefit in certain situations. Even if your company’s IT department is a single person, Windows 365 virtual desktops can be easily integrated into an existing fleet of managed PCs with ease. Virtual desktops will show up in line with physical machines in Microsoft Endpoint Manager.
The new service will come in two flavors: Business and Enterprise. Both will run on Azure Virtual Desktop and be available in a wide range of configurations to suit the needs of the user. On the lower end, the virtual desktops can be configured to use a single CPU core, 2GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage space. The configuration possibilities scale all the way up to 8 CPU cores with 32GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.
We’ll know more about Windows 365, including details on pricing, when it launches next month.