Microsoft Windows 365 service is a new Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) solution from Microsoft that enables businesses and customers to access Cloud PCs remotely.
Hosted desktops, similar to Microsoft Windows 365, runs desktops in the cloud, enabling users to access their data, resources and applications remotely on any device with an internet connection.
Windows 365 will be streaming a version of Windows 10 or Windows 11, which will work and be available across any modern web browser or via Microsoft's Remote Desktop application, enabling users to access their Cloud PC from a range of devices. No matter the device or the operating system, such as Windows, iOS, Android, Linux or Mac, Windows 365 offers a consistent Windows experience.
Even though remote access and virtualisation have been around for ages, Microsoft's Windows 365 is offering Cloud PCs to businesses and companies as they shift between office and remote work, due to the Covid pandemic. However, an internet connection is required in order to use Windows 365.
Windows 365 is designed for businesses of all sizes that need secure and flexible hybrid work solutions for elastic workforces, remote employees and specialised workloads that require adaptable computing and storage capabilities that are available and accessible from any device.
However, Windows 365 is not available for non-business use.
A Cloud PC is an entire computer that runs 'in the cloud.' Since this is your personalised desktop, it will include all of your applications, data, and setting preferences, which will all be securely streamed directly from the cloud to your device. Your Cloud PC is accessible from any device and operates in the same way as a traditional computing device.
The Cloud PC will run any applications or programmes that are wanted to be installed, even those that are not developed by Microsoft. Once installed, these applications and programmes may be accessed from any device, even those that were previously unable to meet your software requirements.
Windows 365, which is to be released on the 2nd of August 2021, is a cloud-based virtualisation service/operating system that will run Windows 10 and 11 in the cloud. It will be like a Windows OS on a PC, but in the cloud. It is not the same as Azure Desktop, even though they sound similar.
Windows 365 will be accessible from any web browser or device with the appropriate software or application. Additionally, once Windows 365 is installed, the user can have access to Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Excel, via the Windows 365 platform.
Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) is a bundle of services and applications, such as Microsoft Outlook, Word and PowerPoint etc, which also includes Office 365. There are a variety of plans/editions to choose from depending on the businesses’ or customers’ requirements or needs. The services included in Microsoft 365 are also available as separate licenses.
Windows 365 is a cloud-based version of Windows that is built on top of existing AVD (Android Virtual Devices) components.
There will be two versions/editions of Windows 365 Cloud PCs: Enterprise and Business.
Enterprise Cloud PCs are intended for businesses who have invested in Microsoft Endpoint Manager and are using this robust platform to manage their current, physical Windows 10 desktops. A licence for Enterprise Cloud PCs is required for each user allocated to a Cloud PC.
Business Cloud PCs are aimed at individual users and small companies who usually purchase their PCs from their local electronics shop. Instead, customers are now able to visit Microsoft online and subscribe to a new Cloud PC, which will be ready within an hour, rather than waiting for hours or days. Similar to a standalone physical PC, Business Cloud PCs do not require a licence and are entirely controlled by the user.
Microsoft will provide 12 distinct configurations for Windows 365 Business and Enterprise, and companies will be able to increase processing power, providing a variety of choices.
Additionally, you'll get access to Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Excel via the Windows 365 platform. Furthermore, Microsoft Windows 365 is compatible with other Microsoft 365 business applications, such as the ones previously mentioned. Applications that previously worked on Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 also work on Microsoft Windows 365.
Scalability and flexibility are two of Windows 365's major benefits, as they enable users to adjust the size, CPU, and RAM of their PC in the cloud according to their specific requirements or needs, effectively virtualizing their server sessions. This adaptability will benefit all users and IT departments, as they will be able to increase or decrease their processing and storage capacity.
Simple administration and fast start-up enable users to continue working in the same manner as they did in previous sessions, without requiring prior virtualization experience or knowledge. IT departments are also able to continue managing, deploying and configuring any PC in the same manner as previously before.
Microsoft also desired to develop, with W365, a service that includes the maximum security guarantees for end users and businesses, based on the Zero Trust principle, in order to host data in the cloud rather than on devices, utilising the full potential of Azure's security solutions, in addition to integrating two-factor authentication for increased security assurance.
The movement and effort toward the cloud will enable many businesses to prevent security breaches on their data and resources that are now stored on local systems, which are highly susceptible to various security assaults.
GoCloud offers superior managed cloud hosting using both Citrix and Microsoft technologies, running from UK ISO27001 certified data centres. If you would like to use a Windows OS for your business, we can transition your team over to their very own hosted desktop without any disruption to your business. Access your files, data and apps with a GoCloud Windows hosted desktop and make remote working a possibility.
If you’re ready to make the switch, get in touch on 01482 751133 or email hello@gocloud.co.uk to find out more.
If you want to find out more, have a look at our FAQs page to find answers to the most common questions when considering a hosted desktop solution.
Take a GoCloud hosted desktop for a free 5-day test drive and experience the freedom to work from anywhere.
