Microsoft’s new Windows 365 service, which offers subscribers a Windows 10-based cloud PC, exists entirely in the cloud and allows users to log in from any device with their files and apps at hand.
It ranges in price from $20 a month to $41 a month, and it will run on Windows 11 later this year when it is released to the public.
The simplest configuration, a single vCPU, 2GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage costs at least $20 per month, and is best suited for the simplest tasks. Microsoft’s cloud PC size guidelines recommend at least 2 vCPUs and 8GB of RAM for bring-your-own-PC and work-from-home scenarios, raising subscription costs to at least $41 per month.
The easiest way to work with the new virtual PC is by clicking the Open In Browser button. This opens a dialog box where the user can choose between local resources such as the Clipboard, microphone and printer to access the remote connection.
The browser works fine for easy connections, but users will have a better experience with Microsoft’s Remote Desktop client, which can be downloaded from a separate page on the Windows 365 dashboard. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android.
Remote Desktop on Windows uses full-screen mode and all available monitors by default. Use the settings menu in the Remote Desktop client to change the default display settings.
Remote Desktop on a mobile device is not as seamless as on a Windows PC or Mac. The biggest adjustment when using this option on an iMac was to use the finger to move and click a virtual mouse pointer instead of simply manipulating objects on the screen.
Most small businesses would likely simply opt to work with a physical PC for such an exorbitant price. Larger companies can consider this, although Windows 365 Business and Enterprise subscriptions cost the same.
For more information, read the original story in ZDNet.