Merry Christmas and may God bless you and your family as well!

AVD is more for larger companies. Win 365 words better in a smaller/medium company

@@examlabpractice Thanks John for the clarification!

Windows 365, Microsoft's cloud PC service, provides a full Windows experience streamed from the cloud to any device. However, unlike traditional Azure Virtual Machines where you can choose every aspect of the hardware, Windows 365 abstracts much of the backend hardware details. Here's what's generally known and how you can approximate the information you're seeking: 1. CPU: Model: Microsoft doesn't specify exact CPU models for Windows 365 Cloud PCs as it's built on Azure's infrastructure, which uses a variety of processors across its data centers. However, Azure typically uses server-grade processors from Intel and AMD that are comparable to the latest available in the market. Performance: You can select different performance options (CPU/RAM) when setting up a Windows 365 Cloud PC. While it doesn't tell you the exact CPU model, the performance tier you choose (e.g., 2 vCPU, 4 vCPU, etc.) will give you an idea of the compute power. 2. Storage: Type: Windows 365 uses Azure storage, which is typically SSD-based to ensure performance and responsiveness. While exact details aren't provided, it's reasonable to assume that they use standard SSDs or better for the OS disk. Options: You can choose the amount of storage when setting up your Cloud PC. Higher tiers likely use better-performing storage, but exact specifications like IOPS are not provided. 3. Hardware Specifics: GPU: Some Windows 365 options include GPU capabilities, which are useful for graphics-intensive tasks. However, like CPUs, exact models aren't specified. Network: Being based on Azure, the network capabilities are robust, offering high bandwidth and low latency, depending on the region and exact infrastructure. Comparing with Azure Compute Series: When comparing with Azure's Compute series (like the F, D, E, or N series), here's what you should consider: Transparency: Azure VMs provide detailed specifications, including the exact CPU models, storage performance (including type and IOPS), and network capabilities. This level of detail is beneficial for a precise comparison. Flexibility: Azure VMs offer more flexibility. You can configure almost every aspect of the hardware and choose from a wider range of options to fit your exact needs. Pricing: Azure's pricing is more granular, with costs associated with individual components (compute, storage, network), whereas Windows 365 offers a bundled price. How to Compare: Identify Your Needs: Understand the specific requirements of your application, including CPU, RAM, storage, and network. Match Performance Tiers: Find the closest match in performance tiers between Windows 365 and Azure VMs. Use the vCPU and RAM specifications as a guide. Estimate Storage: Assume SSD storage for Windows 365 and compare it with the SSD options in Azure VMs. Consider Additional Costs: With Azure VMs, consider additional costs like storage transactions, outbound data, and any additional services you might need. Use Pricing Calculators: Both services offer pricing calculators (Azure Pricing Calculator and Windows 365 pricing page) to estimate costs based on your selected specifications. Final Notes: While Windows 365 doesn't provide the level of detail available with Azure VMs, you can approximate comparisons based on the performance tier and known aspects of Azure's infrastructure. For the most accurate assessment and up-to-date hardware specifications, consider reaching out directly to Microsoft or consulting with a certified Microsoft partner. They can provide the most current and detailed information pertinent to your specific use case and region.

Here is a small breakdown: Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Owned by Microsoft: AVD is a Microsoft service that provides virtual desktops and applications directly from Azure. Integration with Azure: It's deeply integrated with other Azure services and Microsoft 365, offering seamless integration for environments heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. Pricing: AVD's pricing is based on Azure consumption, and you pay for the Azure resources you consume (like VMs and storage). Setup and Management: While AVD has improved its management interface, it's still considered to have a steeper learning curve, especially for those not familiar with Azure. Scalability: It scales well within the Azure environment, benefiting from Azure's vast global infrastructure. Security: Being a part of Azure, it inherits robust security features and compliance standards. Citrix Independent Vendor: Citrix is a third-party vendor that offers a wide range of products, including Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, which compete with AVD. Broader Compatibility: Citrix is known for its compatibility with various environments, not just Azure. It can manage virtual desktops in on-premises data centers, public clouds, or hybrid setups. Advanced Features: Citrix often offers more advanced features, particularly around user experience, with high-definition user experiences even on complex graphical applications and in low-bandwidth scenarios. Complexity and Cost: Citrix can be more complex to set up and generally comes at a higher cost, but it offers more customization and control over the environment. Integration: While it can integrate with Azure and other cloud services, it's also designed to work well in non-Microsoft environments.