It’s starting to look like the future of work for many of us will involve a mix of on-site and remote activities. Approximately half (52 percent of office employees in the U.S. express a preference for a hybrid approach, according to the Gensler Research Institute.
Many enterprise organizations (81 percent) have either already deployed a hybrid model or are in the process of adopting one, according to a recent report from Microsoft. Noting that shift in strategy, in July 2021, the supplier revealed a new solution that offers a cloud-delivered personalized PC experience across devices: Windows 365.
“With Windows 365, we’re creating a new category: the Cloud PC,” said Satya Nadella, chairman and CEO of Microsoft, in a Microsoft News Center article. “Just like applications were brought to the cloud with SaaS, we are now bringing the operating system to the cloud, providing organizations with greater flexibility and a secure way to empower their workforce to be more productive and connected, regardless of location.”
If the launch of Windows 365 has piqued your interest and you’re wondering whether you should look into it for your business, here’s some essential info to consider about the new offering and how it can potentially benefit your organization.
What Is Windows 365 and How Does It Work?
A Windows 365 Cloud PC allows end users to access a personalized PC experience – including apps, files and settings – on any device. This product goes beyond the concept of delivering applications via the cloud to provide an entire operating system (Windows 10 or Windows 11) and virtual desktop from the Microsoft cloud, according to the Microsoft News Center.
What Is Windows 365 Enterprise?
Windows 365 Enterprise caters to larger companies that want to manage cloud PCs with Microsoft Endpoint Manager for an unlimited number of end users and leverage integration with other Microsoft solutions and services. Visit Microsoft’s website for details about Microsoft Enterprise plans.
What Is Windows 365 Business?
Windows 365 Business is geared toward small and midsized companies seeking a streamlined way to purchase, launch and manage cloud PCs for up to 300 end users, according to Microsoft. The solution allows small businesses to contain costs on a per-user level while maintaining optimal levels of cybersecurity. Visit Microsoft’s website for details about Windows 365 Business plans.
How Can Windows 365 Potentially Benefit My Business?
The main advantage of utilizing Windows 365 is giving your team members the ability to access a virtual desktop with their settings, apps and data from various devices via the cloud. This supports flexibility and productivity for distributed workforces and companies leveraging hybrid work strategies.
Other notable features and benefits include the following:
- High degree of scalability
- Easy-to-use interface that lets users pick up exactly where they left off across devices
- Advanced cybersecurity features based on zero trust principles
- Doesn’t require virtualization experience to implement or manage
- Simplified on-boarding and off-boarding processes for temporary and seasonal workers
How Much Does Windows 365 Cost?
Windows 365 is priced on a convenient monthly per-user basis. Windows 365 Business and Enterprise both range from $31 per user per month to $66 per user per month depending on the specific plan you select.
If you’d like to learn more about Windows 365, our team members have extensive experience working with Microsoft products and can offer expert guidance on which solutions best meet your company’s needs and support your goals. As an established Microsoft Cloud Service Provider, we can also evaluate your licensing and identify potential savings for your business.
Find out how to get the most out of your Microsoft investment today by calling 877-599-3999 or emailing sales@stratospherenetworks.com.
