With all of the new products coming out of Microsoft, sometimes it can be hard to keep track. To help you gain a better understanding, I put together this quick rundown of Windows 365 and why you might want to use it for your business.
Windows 365 is a Cloud PC
A Cloud PC is exactly what its name suggests, a virtual machine that runs in the cloud. You assign each Cloud PC to an individual user, and it becomes their dedicated Windows device. This provides a consistent experience no matter where they are or what hardware they use.
End users can access their customized desktop from any device. Users connect to their Cloud PC via windows365.microsoft.com. Browser and app-based access is available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices using the Azure Bastion service.
Subscriptions Come in 2 Flavors
Microsoft offers two different editions of Windows 365, both with guaranteed 99.95% uptime:
- Windows 365 Business is designed for smaller companies and is capped at 300 seats. It features simplified provisioning by use of default configurations.
- Windows 365 Enterprise is for larger companies who want unlimited seats. It integrates with Microsoft Endpoint Manager for centralized management and can be more customized.
To learn more about the differences between the two versions, see Compare Windows 365 Business and Enterprise.
Windows 365 Pricing
The Business and Enterprise versions both have a monthly per-user subscription model. This model means your organization doesn’t have to manage the variability of compute and storage costs of a traditional hosted desktop model. Your administrator can assign Cloud PC licenses through the Microsoft 365 Admin Center or the Azure AD portal. Prices range from $28/month to $158/month.
When to Consider Windows 365
Windows 365 is best for organizations that use a hybrid work model or whose employees are typically on the go using various devices. One great example would be a manufacturing or construction setting where employees are in the field using company provided tablets. Another is an organization that utilizes independent contractors or has a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. Additionally, if you have an employee working in another country, a cloud PC solution lets you avoid shipping hardware outside the U.S., or having your data stored in a foreign country.
You can utilize Cloud PCs on a per employee basis, meaning that you do not need to roll them out across your entire organization. Rather, it is simply another tool to consider when developing the most effective strategy for your particular needs.
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