Windows 365 is Microsoft’s Cloud PC solution. It’s different from Azure Virtual Desktop in some important ways. If you’re considering cloud-based desktop solutions, understanding the difference helps you choose what makes sense for your business.
What Is Windows 365?
Windows 365 provides a Cloud PC, which is essentially a Windows computer that runs in the cloud. Each user gets their own dedicated Cloud PC with consistent performance and specifications. It’s simpler than Azure Virtual Desktop because Microsoft manages the infrastructure, so you just subscribe to Cloud PCs for your users.
With Windows 365, you choose a configuration for each user based on their needs. Some users might need more processing power, others might need more storage. You assign the appropriate Cloud PC configuration, and that user always gets that same performance and capacity. It’s predictable and straightforward.
How It Differs from Azure Virtual Desktop
Azure Virtual Desktop is more flexible but also more complex. You manage the infrastructure, configure virtual machines, handle scaling, and manage the underlying Azure resources. It gives you more control, but it requires more technical expertise to set up and manage.
Windows 365 is simpler. Microsoft manages the infrastructure. You subscribe to Cloud PCs, assign them to users, and that’s largely it. There’s less to configure, less to manage, and less technical complexity. It’s easier to get started, but you have less flexibility in how things are configured.
For most small and medium businesses, Windows 365 is often the better choice because it’s simpler to manage. You get the benefits of cloud desktops without the complexity of managing Azure infrastructure. For businesses that need more customisation or have specific technical requirements, Azure Virtual Desktop might be better.
Benefits for Businesses
Windows 365 provides the same benefits as Azure Virtual Desktop when it comes to security and compliance. Your data stays in your Microsoft 365 tenant, which is important for compliance. Users can access their Cloud PC from any device, which supports BYOD policies and remote work.
The main advantage is simplicity. You don’t need to manage Azure infrastructure or configure complex setups. You subscribe to Cloud PCs, assign them to users, and they work. This makes it easier for businesses that don’t have dedicated IT staff or don’t want to manage complex cloud infrastructure.
Cost is also more predictable. You pay a fixed monthly fee per Cloud PC based on the configuration you choose. There’s no variable usage costs or complex pricing to figure out. You know exactly what you’re paying each month.
When Windows 365 Makes Sense
Windows 365 works well for businesses that want cloud desktops but don’t want the complexity of managing Azure infrastructure. If you need secure access from anywhere, support BYOD policies, or want better control over data, Windows 365 can be a good solution.
It’s particularly useful for businesses that are already using Microsoft 365 and want to extend that to desktop computing. Everything integrates with your existing Microsoft 365 setup, which makes management easier and keeps everything in one place.
We’ve helped businesses choose between Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. The decision usually comes down to how much control and customisation you need versus how much complexity you want to manage. For most small and medium businesses, Windows 365 is the simpler choice.
Getting Started
Setting up Windows 365 is straightforward compared to Azure Virtual Desktop, but it still requires planning. You need to understand your requirements, choose the right Cloud PC configurations, set up user assignments, and configure access. We help businesses assess whether Windows 365 makes sense, set it up properly, and provide ongoing support.
If you’re considering Windows 365 or trying to decide between Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop, let’s have a conversation. We can help you understand the differences, assess what makes sense for your situation, and explain what it would involve.