Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is Microsoft’s Desktop-as-a-Service solution for virtualized Windows desktops and RemoteApps from the cloud. The service is optimized for Microsoft 365 and is the only one offering Windows 10/11 Multi-Session.
What is Azure Virtual Desktop?
Azure Virtual Desktop (formerly Windows Virtual Desktop) enables deployment of Windows desktops and applications from Azure for remote users. Unlike classic VDI, AVD requires no VDI broker infrastructure: The AVD Control Plane service is free in Azure. You only pay for VMs, storage, and network.
The unique selling point is Windows 10/11 Multi-Session: Multiple users can connect to a single VM (similar to Terminal Server, but with full Windows 10/11 desktop). Reduces costs compared to personal desktops. FSLogix profiles separate user data from VMs for consistent user experience.
AVD is ideal for remote work, external employees, legacy app access via RemoteApp streaming, dev/test scenarios, or highly secure workstations. Integration with Microsoft 365, Teams optimization, and Azure AD-based authentication are seamless.
Typical Use Cases
Remote Work and Home Office
Deploy full Windows desktops for home office employees. Central management, security, and compliance. Users connect from any device (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Web).
VDI for Contractors and External Employees
Temporary desktops for contractors without domain join. Azure AD B2B guests receive access. Automatic deletion after project end.
RemoteApp Streaming for Legacy Applications
Publish individual applications instead of full desktops. Users see app in local desktop environment. Ideal for legacy apps that are not cloud-native.
Best Practices
Autoscale for Cost Optimization
Use Autoscale Scheduling for host pools. VMs start/stop based on usage. Save 40-60% on dev/test pools with business hours usage.
FSLogix Profile Container
Store user profiles in Azure Files or NetApp Files. Profiles follow users across sessions. Faster login (profiles are mounted, not copied).
Multi-Session for General Purpose Workloads
Use Windows 10/11 Multi-Session for task workers. 10-20 users per VM possible. Significant cost savings compared to personal desktops.
Frequently Asked Questions about Azure Virtual Desktop
What does Azure Virtual Desktop cost?
AVD Control Plane is free with M365 E3/E5 licenses. You only pay for Azure resources: VMs (e.g., D4s v5 around €120/month), Storage (around €10-20/month/user for FSLogix profiles), Network (egress costs). Example: 100 users with Multi-Session around €5,000-8,000/month.
Do I need additional Windows licenses?
No, if you have M365 E3/E5, M365 F3, Windows E3/E5, or RDS CALs with Software Assurance. These licenses entitle you to use Windows 10/11 Multi-Session in AVD.
What is the difference from Azure Virtual Machines?
AVD is specialized for desktop virtualization with AVD-specific features: Windows 10/11 Multi-Session, FSLogix integration, Autoscale, RemoteApp streaming, simplified user management. Normal VMs require RDS licensing for multi-user access.
Does AVD support GPU workloads?
Yes, NV-Series VMs (NVIDIA GPUs) for CAD, 3D modeling, video rendering. GPU acceleration for graphically intensive applications. Teams optimization uses GPU for video encoding.
How does FSLogix work?
FSLogix stores user profiles (incl. OneDrive, Outlook cache) in VHD/VHDX containers on Azure Files or NetApp Files. At login, container is mounted (not copied), hence fast login times (5-15 seconds).
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you in designing and implementing Azure Virtual Desktop for remote work, VDI, and legacy app migration. We help with sizing, FSLogix profile design, autoscale configuration, and integration with Microsoft 365.
Contact us for a non-binding consultation on Azure Virtual Desktop and Microsoft Azure.
