Recommend an appropriate licensing model for Azure Virtual Desktop based on requirements

Azure Virtual Desktop is a robust cloud-based service that enables organizations to provide virtual desktops and applications to their users. As organizations evaluate and implement Azure Virtual Desktop, one crucial consideration is choosing the appropriate licensing model. In this article, we will recommend an appropriate licensing model for Azure Virtual Desktop based on requirements related to the “Configuring and Operating Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop” exam.

The Licensing Models

There are primarily two licensing models available for Azure Virtual Desktop:

1. Per User Licensing Model

The per-user licensing model allows organizations to assign a license to each user, granting them the flexibility to access Azure Virtual Desktop from multiple devices. With this licensing model, the virtual machines used for desktop and application delivery do not require additional Windows licenses, as the licenses are included in the Azure Virtual Desktop subscription.

2. Per Desktop Licensing Model

The per-desktop licensing model allows organizations to assign a license to each virtual machine, regardless of the number of users accessing it. Each user who accesses the virtual machine needs a Windows license, which can be provided through various licensing programs such as Volume Licensing, Windows 10 Enterprise subscription, or Microsoft 365 E3/E5.

Recommendation: Per User Licensing Model

Considering the requirements for the “Configuring and Operating Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop” exam, we recommend the per-user licensing model for Azure Virtual Desktop. Here are the reasons:

User Flexibility

The per-user licensing model provides flexibility for users to access Azure Virtual Desktop from any device. This allows organizations to cater to scenarios where users might utilize multiple devices such as desktops, laptops, or tablets.

Simplicity

The per-user licensing model simplifies license management. Organizations only need to assign a license to each user, eliminating the need to track licenses per virtual machine. It provides an easy way to add or remove users from Azure Virtual Desktop.

Cost-effectiveness

The per-user licensing model can be cost-effective for organizations with users who can benefit from accessing Azure Virtual Desktop from multiple devices. It eliminates the need for additional Windows licenses for virtual machines, as the licenses are already included in the Azure Virtual Desktop subscription.

Configuring the Per User Licensing Model

To configure the per-user licensing model in Azure Virtual Desktop:

1. Sign in to the Azure portal.
2. Navigate to the “Azure Virtual Desktop” service.
3. Create a host pool, which is a collection of virtual machines that users will connect to.
4. Choose the “Personal” or “Pooled” deployment type based on your requirements.
5. In the “Host pool settings” section, select the “Per user” option under “Desktop type.”
6. Assign the appropriate licenses to each user by assigning them Azure Virtual Desktop user licenses or utilizing existing licenses through Windows 10 Enterprise, Microsoft 365 E3/E5, or other licensing programs.
7. Configure user access, security settings, and user profile configuration according to your organization’s requirements.

By following these steps, you can configure Azure Virtual Desktop to use the per-user licensing model, providing user flexibility, simplified license management, and cost-effectiveness.

It is important to note that the licensing requirements for Azure Virtual Desktop may vary based on your organization’s specific needs and licensing agreements. Therefore, it is recommended to review the official Microsoft documentation and consult with licensing experts to ensure compliance and adherence to licensing guidelines.

Conclusion

Based on the requirements related to the “Configuring and Operating Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop” exam, the recommended licensing model for Azure Virtual Desktop is the per-user licensing model. It provides user flexibility, simplifies license management, and can be cost-effective, making it an ideal choice for organizations implementing Azure Virtual Desktop.