Cloud PCs Archives

Winsage

June 25, 2025

Microsoft opens a free tier for Windows 10 extended updates

Microsoft is introducing new enrollment options for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as Windows 10 approaches its end of life. Users can enroll by utilizing Windows Backup to sync settings to the cloud at no cost, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying a fee with local pricing variations. The Windows Backup app stores data on Microsoft OneDrive, which offers limited free storage, necessitating the purchase of additional storage for larger files. Users can subscribe to Microsoft 365 for extra OneDrive space and updates. Businesses can subscribe to ESU for a fee per device, covering security updates for one year, renewable annually for up to three years. Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 or Virtual Machines will receive ESU at no additional cost.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft makes Windows 10 extended security updates free, but there’s a catch

Microsoft is offering a year of free security updates for Windows 10, requiring users to activate Windows Backup, which syncs settings and folders to the cloud via OneDrive. Users with extensive local files may need to purchase additional OneDrive storage. Alternatively, users can pay a fee or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points for the updates. An enrollment wizard will be introduced in July to assist users in selecting their preferred option. Extended security updates will be available until October 13, 2026, and businesses can purchase up to three years of updates. The offer also extends to Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 and Virtual Machines. Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, as approximately 37 percent of Steam users still operate on Windows 10, with increased notifications expected as the end of support deadline approaches.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Stay secure with Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs and Windows 365 before support ends for Windows 10

Windows has been the most widely used operating system globally since its launch in 1985, currently powering over a billion active devices each month. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates, as well as technical support for Windows 10 PCs. Users can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 through the Settings menu or the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 features enhanced security, improved performance, and a modern user interface, with built-in accessibility tools and AI capabilities. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will provide critical security updates for personal devices from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Organizations can subscribe to ESU for continued security updates for a year, with the option to renew annually. Windows 365 offers a cloud-based solution for transitioning to Windows 11 without needing to replace all devices immediately. Various Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are available from partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Surface.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Old apps and third-party providers blocked: Major Microsoft 365 security impact

Microsoft is implementing default blocks on legacy protocols and third-party applications for Microsoft 365 to enhance security. This includes deactivating the RPS protocol for SharePoint and OneDrive, as well as blocking the FPRPC protocol. Administrators will now need to give explicit approval for third-party applications to access files and pages, limiting user consent. These changes will begin in mid-July 2025 and are expected to be completed by August. Additionally, new security settings for Windows 365 will disable clipboard, storage, USB device, and printer linking by default on newly set up cloud PCs, with VBS, Credential Guard, and HVCI activated by default for those using a Windows 11 Gallery image. These updates for Windows 365 are planned for the latter half of 2025.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft boosts default security of Windows 365 Cloud PCs

Microsoft is enhancing its Windows 365 Cloud PCs with new security features starting in May 2025. All newly provisioned and reprovisioned Cloud PCs using a Windows 11 gallery image will have Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), Credential Guard, and Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI) enabled by default. VBS creates a secure environment to protect system processes, Credential Guard secures authentication credentials, and HVCI ensures only verified code runs at the kernel level. Additionally, beginning in the latter half of 2025, clipboard, drive, USB, and printer redirections will be disabled by default on newly provisioned and reprovisioned Cloud PCs to mitigate security risks, although IT administrators can re-enable these features if needed.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft to remove legacy drivers from Windows Update for security boost

Microsoft is removing legacy drivers from the Windows Update catalog to enhance security and compatibility within its Windows ecosystem. The initiative aims to provide users with the most optimal drivers for various hardware devices. The cleanup process will begin with expiring drivers that have newer replacements, making them unavailable for any Windows system. Partners can republish removed drivers if they present a valid business rationale. Microsoft plans to expand the cleanup to include additional categories that may pose security risks. The company is also implementing changes to pre-production driver signing and has introduced new security defaults for Windows 365 Cloud PCs and updated security protocols for Microsoft 365 tenants.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft announces Windows 365 Reserve: Backup cloud PCs for the enterprise

The service allows administrators to pre-stage a cloud PC with company policies, applications, and security controls for quick delivery to users experiencing device failures. It enables users to access a familiar desktop rapidly, even in challenging situations like a malfunctioning laptop at a client site. Intune manages these virtual devices, simplifying the process for IT teams. The Reserve service offers organizations a low-risk way to explore virtual desktops, aiming to provide faster recovery options for lost, stolen, or damaged devices. However, practical implementation concerns remain, including user support access, the decision between physical replacements or temporary solutions, and the selection of applications and policies for the Reserve image. IT departments need a comprehensive operational playbook to effectively utilize this service.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft testing physical-to-cloud PC failover

Microsoft has introduced a preview of "Windows 365 Reserve," which offers pre-configured cloud PCs for users when their primary devices are unavailable. The service includes essential Microsoft 365 applications, user-specific security policies, and customizations. Users can access a Cloud PC for up to 10 days per year, with the option to use the time all at once or in shorter sessions. Key features include data synchronization via OneDrive, pre-loaded corporate applications, and management through Microsoft Intune. Enhanced security measures involve disabling certain redirections and implementing virtualization-based security. Additionally, Microsoft is conducting a private preview of Windows 365 Cloud Apps for secure access to individual applications without needing a dedicated Cloud PC. Improvements to Windows 365 Link include a new "Connection Center" for selecting multiple Cloud PCs, enhanced multi-monitor support, and NFC card login capabilities.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft has a brand-new service aimed at saving all your files from disastrous cloud drop-out

Microsoft has introduced Windows 365 Reserve, a web-based service that provides temporary, pre-configured Cloud PCs for users during device disruptions. Users can access these Cloud PCs from any device, and they come equipped with Microsoft 365 applications, corporate settings, and security protocols. The service can be utilized for up to 10 days each year. Pricing details are not yet announced, and a preview is expected to launch soon. There is speculation about a possible subscription-based model, and an online application process will be available for early access. Additionally, a 20% discount for first-time customers has been announced for the existing Windows 365 platform.