Cloud PCs are continuing to gain traction as an effective way to manage remote workforces and streamline operations. Among the various platforms available, W365 Enterprise and Azure Virtual Desktop are leading the way in providing flexible, scalable, and secure environments. By looking at a variety of native Cloud PC deployment scenarios, top executives can gain valuable insights into how these solutions drive operational efficiency.

Cloud PC Deployment Models

There are several deployment options for Cloud PCs, each designed to meet specific business needs. These scenarios can be categorized into dedicated, frontline, and shared models. Let’s take a look at how each model works and its ideal use cases.

Dedicated Cloud PCs

The dedicated model is a one-to-one, persistent deployment, meaning each user has their own personalized Cloud PC. This model offers full support for all features, making it ideal for employees who need consistent access to specific applications and configurations. It’s perfect for roles that require high productivity, such as developers, contractors, and general-purpose workers.

• Ideal for employees with ongoing needs
• Offers full feature support
• No need for complex profile management

Frontline Cloud PCs

Frontline Cloud PCs are designed for shift-based work environments, like call centers or manufacturing floors. This model allows for a single desktop to be shared across multiple workers, but only one person can use it at a time. The main benefit here is cost-efficiency, as you only pay for a single license while accommodating several users.

• Great for shift work and shared resources
• Cost-effective for environments with multiple users
• Limited in terms of resizing and flexibility

Shared Cloud PCs

A shared deployment model, currently in tech preview, allows for pooled resources. This option is best for businesses that don’t require persistence between sessions and where users don’t need a dedicated desktop. It offers flexibility, allowing businesses to pay only for the number of desktops needed.

• Ideal for businesses that don’t need persistent desktops
• Offers a cost-effective model for large-scale deployments
• Limited flexibility and feature support

Integrating with Microsoft’s Hosted Network (MHN) and Azure Network Connection

Another important consideration in Cloud PC deployment is how these systems integrate with other cloud-based services like Microsoft’s Hosted Network (MHN) and Azure Network Connection (ANC). For businesses looking for seamless connectivity with minimal infrastructure requirements, using the MHN can be a game-changer.

MHN

MHN simplifies deployment by managing the network entirely within the Microsoft ecosystem. It’s an excellent option for businesses that don’t want to worry about building out additional infrastructure. The MHN model offers a fixed monthly price, making it predictable and easy to manage.

• Minimal upfront costs
• Ideal for businesses using SaaS applications
• Limited integration with on-premise systems

Azure Network Connection (ANC)

ANC provides a more flexible solution by allowing Cloud PCs to connect to on-premise systems or other Azure-based services. This setup is ideal for businesses that need more control over their cloud infrastructure and require hybrid cloud solutions.

• Supports hybrid configurations with on-premise systems
• Enables secure connectivity to other Azure services
• Offers more complex setup and maintenance

Cost Efficiency and Flexibility

One of the most appealing aspects of Cloud PC deployment is its cost-effectiveness. With fixed monthly pricing and a subscription-based model, businesses can scale up or down without incurring significant upfront costs. For instance, the cost of a W365 Enterprise license for a 2×8 configuration is around $40 per month, while a 4×6 configuration costs about $60 per user.

Managing Cloud PCs with Intune and Other Tools

Microsoft Intune is a powerful tool for managing Cloud PCs. It offers a centralized platform for provisioning, monitoring, and managing all devices in the cloud. By using Intune, administrators can set policies, monitor device compliance, and automate app installations, making it easier to manage large-scale deployments.

Key benefits of using Intune with Cloud PCs include:

• Centralized Device Management
• Simplified Application Deployment
• Policy Enforcement

Contact us today for help with your migration or check out our Microsoft Cloud PC Jumpstart.