Software is constantly advancing, leaving our once-powerful PCs with outdated components and a diminished value. Upgrading and replacing PCs is expensive, especially if your industry thrives on the cutting-edge.
Windows 365 Cloud PC changes this. Rather than upgrading your machines periodically, you can access a more powerful PC in the cloud. You can use your PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet to run powerful software programs, regardless of your device’s technical specifications. Cloud-based machines allow you to begin a project with your office computer, then finish it up later with whatever device is most convenient.
At first, this may sound similar to Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop. However, there are several significant differences. How do they compare and differ? Should you stick with Azure or switch to Windows 365? Here, we’ll discuss the similarities and differences to help you make an informed decision.
Virtual Services Anywhere
Many platforms make it possible to save your work in one place and edit it in another. Azure and Windows 365 Cloud PC both do that and so much more than that. Both offer cloud-based access to the Windows platform.
Each uses virtualization to simulate computer hardware for greater scalability. In other words, the “hardware” used by customers is entirely virtual. So, it can be upgraded in real-time to meet the user’s needs. So how are they different?
As we said, Windows 365 Cloud PC offers virtual Windows desktops that can be accessed from any device. Azure is built to accommodate the distribution of applications (among other things) from businesses to their partners, clients, and customers. In other words, it serves as a cloud-based data center. It also allows developers to build their apps in the cloud and collaborate on various aspects of a project. It functions as an IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service) platform.
Userbase
Azure is primarily designed for developers. That’s not to say that less tech-savvy users won’t find a use for it, but it is a reason to consider Windows 365 Cloud PC. Cloud PC is configured to streamline standard services, whereas Azure requires users to fine-tune their settings and preferences.
It also takes an on-site data center (more on that later), whereas Windows 365 functions as a cloud-based office. Azure is ultimately more customizable, but it’s often beyond the skill set of a typical user. It’s also unnecessary for most common tasks.
Of course, Windows 365 Cloud PC is still customizable and personalized. It saves your settings, documents, and programs. It does so the same way that an actual Windows PC does it. You’re just able to stream that desktop on any device. Its functionality will prove more familiar to office workers who use their PCs for their work but aren’t necessarily involved with the development of IT-related tasks.
IT Management
Windows 365 makes it easy for your organization’s IT team to manage the entire platform and each user on it. There is no need to manage individual computers or troubleshoot workstations from the server. Every “workstation” exists in the cloud, free from cables or other hardware failures.
Cloud PC also makes it much easier to manage the workstations of remote employees. Any issues with the business’s infrastructure can be addressed immediately from one location. If the user is still experiencing issues, their device can be quickly identified as the culprit. They can switch to another device in another location, and when they do, they’ll find their desktop precisely as they left it.
Azure eliminates the need for an on-site data center. Applications can be developed and distributed from the Azure platform, which functions as a virtual data center. As with Windows 365, Azure also allows IT teams to diagnose any issues that arise quickly. If those issues stem from the platform itself, a dedicated team of Microsoft professionals are ready to help.
Using the Internet
But what about connecting to the Internet? How well does it work on a remote desktop?
Azure and Virtual 365 workstations offer lightning-fast connection speeds – much faster than the average home and business rates. Since your personal device only needs to connect with the Azure or 365 platforms, opening more programs and doing more online on the virtual desktop won’t slow your local connection. The only speed and bandwidth needed on your end are the equivalents of what’s required to stream online videos.
Doing more on your virtual desktop will never require more bandwidth from your local connection. Even better, your virtual desktop will never be the source of bottlenecks.
Access
Azure and Windows 365 Cloud PC can be accessed from any browser or via apps. This makes accessibility a breeze; it takes no more than an Internet connection. The same login will be used on every device to access your virtual desktop.
Scalability
Both Azure and Widows 365 Cloud PC are scalable. This means that you only pay for as much performance as you need. As your workload grows, you can upgrade to a better plan. For example, if you hire several new employees who perform intensive tasks on their PCs, you can upgrade to a Windows 365 plan offering more Cloud PCs with higher specs. If you need to distribute more powerful applications to a larger audience, you can scale up your Azure platform. The plans you choose are based on your business needs and can be upgraded or downgraded accordingly.
Summary
Ultimately, Windows 365 Cloud PC is best for organizations that want to provide a fully functional cloud-based desktop for employees. It functions just like a traditional desktop but is accessible from any device. It can also be used by individuals who need a consistent desktop regardless of their location or device availability.
To set up a suitable cloud PC for your business’s unique needs, the team at Makios can help. You can call us today at (915) 217-2500 or
to schedule a free consultation.
