For a while, the momentum behind going all-in on Cloud Computing has been building steadily. More and more local companies have been adopting Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) cloud desktops and migrating their services to the cloud. However, recently, this momentum has started to lose steam. The main culprit? The rising costs of Azure, which have become a significant burden for many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). 

The Cost Challenge with Azure 

Azure, Microsoft’s cloud computing service, has been a popular choice for businesses looking to leverage the power of cloud computing. However, as more SMBs have adopted Azure, the costs associated with maintaining these cloud services have escalated. For many, the expense has become unsustainable, leading to frustration and a reevaluation of their cloud strategies. 

A Ray of Light: Windows 365 

In response to this growing concern, Microsoft has recognized the trend of SMBs moving away from centralized services and working with their main business software as a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. This insight has led to the development of a new service offering specifically for SMBs called Windows 365—not to be confused with Office 365. 

Windows 365 is a pure VDI solution, providing an independent cloud desktop experience. The key advantage of this offering is that it delivers the benefits of VDI without the high costs associated with hosting services in a traditional cloud environment. This makes it a more affordable option for many businesses. 

Testing Windows 365: A Promising Solution 

Having tested a Windows 365 desktop, I can attest to its impressive performance. The 16 GB model with 4 vCPUs offers incredible speed and responsiveness. Here’s a breakdown of what comes with the 16 GB Windows 365 Desktop: 

16 GB RAM 

4 vCPUs 

256 GB Storage 

Windows 10 or Windows 11 Operating System 

Integrated Microsoft 365 Apps 

Enhanced Security Features 

Scalable Performance Options 

This solution is particularly appealing for companies that no longer maintain dedicated servers but still require robust and reliable desktop environments. 

Affordable Cloud Solutions for SMBs 

For businesses that have previously considered a total cloud solution with Azure but found the costs prohibitive, Windows 365 presents a compelling alternative. It offers a way to enjoy the advantages of cloud-based VDI without the financial strain. By obtaining a quote for Windows 365, SMBs can explore a more cost-effective path to cloud computing. 

Conclusion: A New Path Forward 

In conclusion, while the rising costs of Azure have caused frustration among many SMBs, there is hope on the horizon. Windows 365 provides a viable and affordable alternative that allows businesses to continue leveraging the power of cloud computing without breaking the bank. For companies in San Antonio and beyond, this new offering from Microsoft could be the key to maintaining momentum in their cloud adoption journey. 

Article by David Walter