Azure Virtual Desktop is a form of workplace virtualization: the operating system and applications do not run on the employee's device but on virtual machines in Microsoft Azure. Only video, audio, and input reach the end device. The service was initially called Windows Virtual Desktop. A special feature is a multi-session edition of Windows Enterprise that lets several people share one virtual machine without having to switch to a server operating system.
How does Azure Virtual Desktop work?
Responsibilities are shared. Microsoft operates the control plane with connection brokering, gateway, and web access. The company operates the session hosts, that is, the virtual machines in its own Azure subscription.
- Host pools group similar session hosts. In pooled environments, several people share the hosts. In personal environments, each person has their own machine.
- Application groups determine whether someone gets a full desktop or only individual applications.
- Profiles are usually stored in profile containers on network storage so that personal settings are available on every host.
- Scaling shuts hosts down outside working hours and starts them again when needed, which directly affects costs.
Sign-in uses the Microsoft Entra ID account, which lets you apply rules such as Conditional Access.
Typical examples
- A client-server line-of-business application runs too slowly over the internet and is deployed close to its database in Azure.
- External service providers get a controlled workspace without pulling company data onto their own devices.
- An old terminal server in the server room is replaced.
What companies should keep in mind
- Control costs: Match virtual machine sizes and scaling plans to actual usage.
- Region and latency: Choose a region close to your users and plan access to local resources such as printers or file servers early.
- Test applications: Not every line-of-business application is suitable for multi-session operation.
- Check licensing: Access rights to the Windows desktops are tied to specific Microsoft licenses.
- Maintain hosts: Session hosts need updates and protection like any other server, see patch management.
How it differs
Windows 365 also delivers desktops from the cloud, but as a ready-made Cloud PC per person that Microsoft largely manages. Azure Virtual Desktop is more flexible, the Azure resources used are billed by consumption, and it requires more in-house management.
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