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| Microsoft introduces cloud computing with Windows 365 |
Microsoft is bringing Windows to the cloud. He announced the launch of Windows 365, a new service that enables businesses to access their cloud PCs from anywhere and stream versions of Windows 10 or Windows 11 in a web browser.
While PC virtualization and remote access have been around for more than a decade, Microsoft is counting on a mix of office and remote work to bring enterprise cloud computing to Windows 365 when migrating business.
Windows 365 can be run from any modern web browser or Microsoft's remote desktop application, so users can access cloud computers from a variety of devices.
"Windows 365 is an instant experience," the company said. This instant access allows employees to use all of their apps, tools, data, and settings to stream Windows sessions on Mac, iPad, Linux, and Android devices. You can pick up where you left off, because even if you change hardware, the cloud status stays the same.
Windows 365 for Business is only available when it launches on August 2nd for a monthly subscription per user.
Microsoft won't release exact pricing details until the service launches next month. However, Windows 365 is designed for businesses and individual organizations with thousands of employees.
There are two editions of Windows 365: Business Edition and Enterprise Edition. Azure Virtual Desktop supports both.
A single cloud computer can be configured with a single processor, 2 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, expandable up to 8 processors, 32 GB RAM and 512 GB storage.
The company offers 12 different setups for Windows 365 Business and Windows 365 Enterprise. Companies can expand their processing capabilities to get more options.
Microsoft announces Windows 365
Microsoft-based Windows in the cloud is not much different from the many virtualization options businesses can choose from now.
The company introduced similar technology through Azure Virtual Desktop. Citrix has provided cloud-hosted offices for many years.
Microsoft is trying to differentiate itself through ease of use and management. For companies that want to try virtualization for a variety of reasons, but don't, Windows 365 is very different.
The company was able to set up and assign employees cloud computers in minutes without the need for dedicated physical hardware.
This may be of interest to many companies that employ remote workers or even temporary workers who need secure access to the company's network.
And because your Windows PC is entirely in the cloud, employees won't have to rummage through VPNs or worry about the security of their personal devices.
The pandemic has accelerated Windows 365 work and Microsoft's broader focus on hybrid work.
Over the past year, the company has been steadily improving Microsoft Teams and laying out a vision for the future of meetings, remote work, and more.