Tech giant Microsoft announced its new hybrid platform for physical and cloud computing, according to a blog posted on its website. Microsoft 365 is the latest of the company’s efforts to offer a flexible service for hybrid workers.
In light of the new normal, in which organizations have created remote opportunities for their staff, more workers are more inclined to work from home. However, the gradual opening of commercial and business districts calls for a combination of remote and on-premises work.
This is where Microsoft 365 comes in. Known as a hybrid cloud PC, this platform allows users to use Windows 10 or Windows 11 on a different level.
Wangui McKelvey, Microsoft 264 General Manager, explained in a blog, “Windows 365 takes the operating system to the Microsoft Cloud, securely streaming the full Windows experience – including all your apps, data, and setting 0 to your personal or corporate devices.”
This is expected to make switching from on-premises to home-based work and vice versa much easier. Moreover, it eliminates the problem of accessing files and applications needed to perform the job.
Aside from accessibility and flexibility, this new offering boosts security with the help of Zero Trust. Using the Zero Trust architecture, the platform provides multifactor authentication (MFA).
This can help users access their Cloud PC with the help of Microsoft Azure Active Directory and Microsoft Endpoint Manager. The Cloud PC is also protected by Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
The Verge noted that this new service does not have pricing as of yet, but will have price tags upon its release on August 2. However, the report noted that the tech giant unveiled an option for businesses. The product will be available for $31 per user per month.
The Microsoft 354 Business option provides customers will two CPUs, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. It caters to organizations with fewer than 300 users.
A Microsoft spokesperson told The Verge, “This is pricing for just one SKU. Microsoft will have many more options, both in terms of configurations and price points, to share when the product becomes generally available on August 2nd.”
The good news is, this option is not the most affordable. Users will be able to access a single-CPU Cloud PC, with just 2GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Details are yet to be released regarding Enterprise options.
Meanwhile, it is too early to compare Microsoft 365 with Azure Virtual Desktop, Citrix, and Amazon Workspaces.
