Updated: May 31, 2023 (December 15, 2022)

Windows Client OS VDI Licensing Relaxed

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

Windows 10 and 11 will cost less to license in some virtual desktop infrastructures.
The changes will benefit customers centralizing Windows desktops in their own data centers or with small service providers.
Amazon Web Services, Google, Alibaba, and their customers will not benefit.

An Oct. 2022 licensing change will benefit some customers who offer Windows 10 and 11 user desktops in virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). VDI is a family of technologies that centralize management of user desktops on servers to reduce costs, increase data security, and support home and remote work. Microsoft 365 Enterprise– and Windows Enterprise–related licenses cover use of the Windows client OS within VDI deployments, but rules vary depending on the specific VDI hosting location:

Azure
Listed Providers other than Azure (currently Amazon Web Services [AWS], Google, and Alibaba)
On-premises
Authorized Outsourcers, service providers who are not Listed Providers.

In Oct. 2022, more favorable licensing terms were introduced for the latter two hosting scenarios.

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