Windows 365: Microsoft brings dedicated cloud PCs

Microsoft calls its new cloud computers Windows 365 Link. They are based on the service of the same name, which provides the complete operating system including applications from Microsoft's servers. Initially, the 365 systems could only be started from an existing desktop; later, direct booting into Cloud Windows for PCs was added. The links now appear on devices that are intended exclusively for use in the cloud.

Intended for use in the office

The Link devices, which will be available in "selected markets" from April 2025, are comparable to conventional mini PCs and are therefore intended for stationary use in the office. They are fanless and have enough computing power to run video conferencing applications locally. Microsoft mentions its own MS Teams and Cisco Webex in the announcement; whether certification is required for the feature remains open.

Peripherals can be connected via four USB ports, three Type A and one Type C; Bluetooth 5.3 is available for wireless input devices. Headsets et cetera can be connected via an audio port, no further details on the type. An Ethernet port and Wi-Fi 6E are also on board for connecting to the network. Two 4K screens can also be connected via DisplayPort and HDMI, although Microsoft does not provide any details on the ports here either.

Why should companies equip their workstations with Links instead of conventional PCs? Microsoft cites security first and foremost, as the cloud is generally more secure. Cloud systems are also easy to manage, as they can be administered in Intune in parallel to the existing clients. In the long term, OEMs are also expected to produce such cloud PCs; according to the announcement, further offerings will appear in the course of 2025.

Whether and when the Windows 365 Link will appear in Germany is still open in the announcement. Microsoft quoted a price of 349 US dollars at its Ignite in-house trade fair.

Secure access for field staff

Microsoft is also expanding Windows 365 beyond the Links with the new frontline feature called Shared Mode: If users need spontaneous, but only short-term access to a cloud system, they can also use the function to access it from any Windows client. Once they have finished their work, they log out and all user data is deleted. As the name suggests, the feature is primarily aimed at employees working remotely. Shared mode is currently in preview.

(fo)