IT professionals are known for their discerning nature when it comes to evaluating solutions. Therefore, when a solution architect, a head of workplace design, and a modern workplace product manager converge on a consensus regarding an endpoint—characterized by its simplicity in management, rapid deployment, and enhanced security—it certainly warrants attention.
Celebrating a Year of Windows 365 Link
This month marks the first anniversary of Windows 365 Link, a service designed to elevate the Windows 365 experience. For those unfamiliar, Windows 365 is a cloud service that streams a complete Windows environment—encompassing applications, settings, and desktop—directly from the Microsoft Cloud to any device. In essence, it allows your PC to exist in the cloud. Windows 365 Link was conceived to extend this concept, providing organizations with a secure, easy-to-manage endpoint for Windows 365 that operates without local data, applications, or admin users. This innovation enables organizations to scale Cloud PCs in a straightforward, secure, and cost-effective manner. Over the past year, Windows 365 Link has expanded its reach into new regions and found applications across diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services.
Windows 365 Link is addressing a variety of challenges faced by organizations. For instance:
- An energy company aims to reduce the management burden associated with operating different devices for various roles.
- A global packaging manufacturer seeks to provide seamless access to resources for hundreds of factory workers as they transition between workstations.
- A New Zealand telecommunications company is in the process of reconstructing its entire desktop environment following a separation from its parent organization.
- A Japanese IT infrastructure service provider is establishing a robust hybrid work foundation that harmonizes convenience with security.
These organizations have discovered that Windows 365 Link is more than just a device; it represents a shift away from reconciling complexity towards a more streamlined approach to IT management.
Consistent feedback from various organizations illustrates a unified narrative:
Our expanding partner network facilitates the swift procurement and deployment of Windows 365 Link, with over 200 resellers onboarded across 20 countries. Feedback from partners experienced in deploying Windows 365 Link emphasizes its capability to simplify endpoint management while delivering reliable user experiences.
In response to customer insights, we regularly implement updates to Windows 365 Link devices aimed at enhancing user experience and streamlining IT management. Notable updates scheduled for release this quarter include:
- Support for pairing Bluetooth® devices during the out-of-box experience, allowing users to utilize a wireless keyboard and mouse for setup.
- Support for tenant branding, enabling customization of wallpaper, logos, and names on the sign-in screen for a personalized user experience.
- Support for unique peripherals via USB redirection without requiring endpoint configuration, along with centralized IT Admin controls for specific USB devices (Public Preview).
- Visibility into pending updates directly on the sign-in and ctrl+alt+del screens, keeping users informed about available updates.
Support for tenant branding on the Windows 365 Link sign-in screen
As we commemorate this significant milestone, we extend our gratitude to our Windows 365 customers and partners for their trust and collaboration. If you are considering a device refresh for frontline or desk-based workers, Windows 365 Link presents a secure, simple-to-manage, and cost-effective alternative to traditional desktops. For further insights into the potential benefits of deploying Windows 365 Link in shared spaces, refer to the Forrester Consulting study, New Technology: The Projected Total Economic Impact™ of Windows 365 Link, July 2025, commissioned by Microsoft. We remain dedicated to expanding the availability of Windows 365 Link, ensuring that more organizations can harness the power, simplicity, and security of Windows 365.
