Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Windows 365 (W365) are two powerful solutions that offer unique benefits for virtual desktop environments. While AVD provides a comprehensive desktop and app virtualization service with multisession capabilities, W365 offers a simpler, single-user Cloud PC experience. Together, they provide a flexible and scalable approach to meet various organizational needs.
Why Choose one when you can have both
W365 delivers a streamlined Cloud PC experience with fixed pricing and minimal configuration. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized businesses or individual users who need a consistent, dedicated environment without the overhead of managing infrastructure.
AVD, on the other hand, is a robust, customizable platform that supports multi-session environments. It’s perfect for enterprises that require granular control, scalability, and deep integration with Azure services.
Together, W365 and AVD offer a hybrid approach that adapts to your workforce’s diverse needs.
|
Feature |
Windows 365 (W365) |
Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) |
| User Model | Single-user Cloud PC | Multi-session virtual desktops |
| Management | Fully managed by Microsoft | Admin-managed with full control |
| Customization | Predefined Customizations | Highly customizable |
| Pricing | Fixed monthly cost | Consumption-based billing |
| Ideal for | Simplicity, predictability, SMBs | Flexibility, scalability, enterprise IT teams |
When to use both
Combining W365 and AVD allows organizations to tailor desktop experiences:
- Dedicated Cloud PCs for full-time employees via W365.
- Multi-session desktops for contractors or seasonal staff via AVD.
- Rapid onboarding with W365 while scaling backend workloads with AVD.
- Business continuity by leveraging W365’s simplicity and AVD’s resilience