Updated: July 27, 2020 (September 22, 2019)

  Analyst Report

More Microsoft 365 Users May Access Windows Virtual Desktop

My Atlas / Analyst Reports

438 wordsTime to read: 3 min
Rob Horwitz by
Rob Horwitz

Rob Horwitz analyzes and writes about Microsoft licensing programs and product licensing rules. He also trains organizations on best Microsoft... more

  • Updated rules ensure all Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 users have Windows Virtual Desktop access rights.

A subtle change to Microsoft’s licensing rules permits more Microsoft 365 Enterprise suite users to access Windows Virtual Desktop, a planned service for hosting Windows client OS-based VMs in an Azure-based virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Specifically, the new rules permit access by Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 users whose primary work device is a Mac, iPad, Chromebook, or other type of non-Windows device.

Old Rules Could Require Windows Device

Rights to run and access Windows client OS-based VMs in Windows Virtual Desktop are provided by any of the following Windows Enterprise and Virtual Desktop Access (VDA) User Subscription Licenses (User SLs):

  • Windows Enterprise E3
  • Windows Enterprise E5
  • VDA E3
  • VDA E5.

However, Windows Enterprise User SLs, available stand-alone or bundled as a component within Microsoft 365 Enterprise suites, have a licensing prerequisite: the licensed user must be a primary user of a work device already licensed (Per-Device) for Windows Pro (or Enterprise). For example, users with PCs purchased with Windows 10 Pro satisfy this prerequisite, but users with iPads or Chromebooks do not.

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now