Windows 365 gives every user a Cloud PC. Microsoft hosts the Cloud PC as a Windows virtual machine. Admins assign a license and the Cloud PC provisions on its own. Users connect from a browser or from Windows, Mac, iOS and Android apps. Microsoft Intune manages the Cloud PC and users pay monthly.
Windows 365 moves the Windows desktop from a physical computer to the cloud. Users sign in from a device and see their own Windows desktop.
Facts follow the Microsoft Learn overview of Windows 365 Enterprise. Plans and names shift so check the page for the current list.
What is Windows 365?
Windows 365 Enterprise is a cloud service that creates Windows virtual machines called Cloud PCs. Microsoft states every Cloud PC delivers a full Windows desktop experience with Microsoft 365 productivity, security and collaboration features.
Microsoft built the service on three parts named Microsoft Intune for management, Microsoft Entra ID for identity and access and Azure Virtual Desktop for remote connectivity.
How does a Cloud PC Start?
- Admins assign a Windows 365 license to a user in the right Microsoft Entra user group.
- Provisioning happens on its own. Admins do not build it by hand.
- Intune manages configuration, apps and updates for the Cloud PC.
How do Users Connect?
| Method | Detail |
|---|---|
| Browser | Go to windows365.microsoft.com |
| Apps | Windows, Mac, iOS and Android apps |
| Windows 365 Link | A desk based device that connects to a Cloud PC |
How does Billing Work?
Billing is monthly per user. This approach avoids variable compute and storage cost. In Enterprise every user gets a dedicated Cloud PC. Windows 365 Flex is the exception because several users share one Cloud PC but never at the same time.
Optional Azure network connections link Cloud PCs to on premises resources. Managed server providers use Microsoft 365 Lighthouse to manage customer Cloud PCs.
For related reading see business benefits of moving to the cloud and identity and access management in the cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cloud PC?
It is a Windows virtual machine hosted by Microsoft with a full Windows desktop for one user.
How do I Open a Cloud PC?
Use a browser at windows365.microsoft.com or an app on Windows, Mac, iOS or Android.
Who Manages a Cloud PC?
Microsoft Intune manages configuration, apps and updates.
How does Windows 365 Billing Work?
Users pay monthly.
Do Users Share a Cloud PC?
No. Enterprise gives every user a dedicated Cloud PC. Flex is the exception.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft hosts every Cloud PC as a Windows virtual machine.
- License assignment provisions the Cloud PC.
- Users connect from a browser or from apps on four platforms.
- Intune manages the Cloud PC.
- Billing is monthly per user.
Sources and References
Facts follow the Microsoft Learn overview.
- What is Windows 365 Enterprise? (Microsoft Learn) learn.microsoft.com