Intune
For teams that need cloud desktops to fit better with endpoint management, compliance and standardised device operations.
Windows 365 / AVD
Windows 365 and AVD for secure, operable desktop platforms
Windows 365 and AVD become relevant when organisations want to deliver modern workspaces more flexibly without sacrificing security, user experience or manageability. inciro helps assess, design and implement the right cloud desktop model so the platform fits your identity layer, endpoints, Azure environment and operational reality.
The challenge
Cloud desktops require more than simply launching a session
The choice between Windows 365 and AVD is not always obvious
Both platforms can be right, but for very different reasons. Without a grounded assessment, many organisations end up with a model that is either more expensive than necessary or more complex than they realistically need to operate.
Identity, networking and applications make the difference
A cloud desktop platform only works well when access, image management, applications, network dependencies and user profiles fit together. In practice, this is where the biggest problems usually appear.
The operating model is often underestimated
Windows 365 and AVD directly affect support, onboarding, security, patching and the user experience. If operations are not considered from the outset, the expected value quickly becomes smaller than planned.
What we do
We help with cloud desktops as a platform decision, not a technical demo
inciro helps organisations choose and shape the right desktop platform between Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. Some organisations need the simplicity and predictability of Windows 365. Others need the flexibility and architectural control of AVD. Our role is to identify the model that best fits your user groups, security requirements, application landscape and operational capacity.
We approach the work more broadly than the desktop session itself. That means we also examine identity, access, Conditional Access, Intune, image management, network dependencies, file access and the relationship to the rest of the Microsoft platform. When cloud desktops succeed, it is rarely because one isolated technical component looks good. It is because the whole design holds together.
We can help both in the early evaluation phase and in the implementation itself. For some clients, the work begins with an assessment of an existing VDI, RDS or endpoint setup and a decision on whether Windows 365 or AVD should be the next step. For others, the need is to improve or stabilise an environment that already exists but where performance, operations or security are not yet good enough.
What matters most to us is that the solution can be run in practice. Cloud desktops need to become more than an impressive pilot. They have to work over time for users, support teams and security stakeholders. That is why we focus on realistic design, clear standardisation and an operating model that does not require heroic effort every week.
How it works
From assessment to a more mature cloud desktop platform
Needs review and platform choice
We map user scenarios, applications, security requirements and operational needs to assess whether Windows 365, AVD or a combined model makes the most sense.
Architecture and design
We design a model covering identity, access, images, profiles, networking, governance and the dependencies that make the desktop experience robust.
Implementation and testing
We help establish or improve the environment, run a pilot and ensure user experience, security and operations fit together before wider rollout.
Operational anchoring
You receive documentation, standards and recommendations for the continued operation and controlled expansion of the platform.
Who this is for
For organisations that want cloud desktops without avoidable compromises
This service fits organisations wanting to assess or improve Windows 365 and AVD as part of their modern workplace strategy, and needing senior support with architecture, platform choice and implementation.
- Organisations wanting to assess whether Windows 365 or AVD is the better fit for their users and operating model
- Companies with specific requirements around secure access, flexible workspaces or external users
- IT teams modernising away from traditional VDI, RDS or heavy local desktop operations
- Organisations that already run AVD or Windows 365 but lack maturity in operations, security or standardisation
- Companies wanting to connect cloud desktops more closely with Entra ID, Intune and Azure governance
What you get
Concrete deliverables
Assessment and platform recommendation
A clear decision basis for whether Windows 365, AVD or a combined model is the right choice for your organisation.
Cloud desktop architecture and design
A practical model for identity, image management, networking, access, security and operations around the desktop platform.
Implementation or improvement support
Hands-on help with setup, pilot, tuning and stabilisation of the Windows 365 or AVD environment.
Operational foundation
Documentation, standards and next steps for a platform that can be operated more securely and more predictably over time.
Questions and answers
Common questions about Windows 365 and AVD
What is the difference between Windows 365 and AVD?
Windows 365 is generally simpler and more predictable as a cloud PC model, while AVD offers more flexibility and architectural control. The right choice depends on user profiles, applications, security requirements and how much platform complexity your organisation can realistically run well.
When does Windows 365 make sense?
Windows 365 often makes sense when the organisation wants a relatively simple cloud desktop model with fast onboarding, clear licensing and less need for deeper custom architecture.
When is AVD the better choice?
AVD is often the right fit when you need greater flexibility, more advanced architecture, special application requirements, scaling scenarios or tighter integration with the Azure platform.
Can you help with both design and implementation?
Yes. We can support evaluation, architecture, pilot, implementation, stabilisation and the operational improvements that follow.
How do Windows 365 and AVD connect to Intune and identity?
They are closely connected. Identity, Conditional Access, Intune, image management and endpoint standards are often decisive for security, user experience and operational stability across the cloud desktop platform.
Next step
Let’s assess your Windows 365 or AVD scenario
We can quickly help clarify which model best fits your users, platform and operating reality.