We're excited to announce that Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode is now available in three new regions, expanding our global footprint and bringing Cloud PCs closer to organizations across Europe.
Starting today, customers can deploy Windows 365 Frontline shared mode Cloud PCs in:
Europe geography:
- Norway East
- France Central
- Spain Central
This expansion enables organizations to place Cloud PCs closer to their users, reducing latency and supporting local data residency requirements, critical for meeting regulatory compliance, and delivering optimal user experiences.
Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode is designed for employees who need quick, intermittent access to task-based tools—like retail staff checking inventory, contractors requiring temporary access, or new hires completing onboarding training.
How Frontline in shared mode works
Shared mode Cloud PCs provide a secure, non-persistent desktop experience where:
- Only one user can connect at a time
- User profile data is deleted when they sign out
- The Cloud PC is released for the next user
- Organizations optimize costs by providing access to multiple users with a single license
In addition to full desktop access, organizations can also deliver Cloud Apps using the same shared mode foundation. This is ideal for users who only need a focused set of business-critical applications like browsers, email, inventory systems, and so on, without the overhead of a full desktop environment.
This makes shared mode ideal for scenarios where users don't need data persistence but require quick access to specialized tools and applications.
Key benefits of regional expansion
Expanding Windows 365 Frontline shared mode to the new regions provides benefits including:
- Improved user experience - Bringing Cloud PCs closer to users improves responsiveness and reduces latency.
- Compliance and data sovereignty - Keeping data within geographical boundaries can help organizations meet local regulatory requirements. Whether they're navigating GDPR in Europe or data sovereignty regulations in the Middle East, regional deployment options provide the flexibility they need.
- Simplified IT management - IT admins can set up Cloud PCs with just a few clicks, while users benefit from faster sign-ins and immediate productivity.
Getting started with the new regions
Using Microsoft Hosted Network (MHN)
We recommend using Microsoft Hosted Network (MHN), so you can start deploying to the new regions immediately. To do this:
- Navigate to your provisioning policy in the Microsoft Intune admin center
- Select the appropriate geography (Europe)
- Choose your desired region:
- Europe: Norway East, France Central or Spain Central
Microsoft automatically optimizes Cloud PC placement for performance and resilience within your selected geography.
Learn more about how Microsoft Hosted Network improves resiliency and regional coverage.
Using Azure Network Connection (ANC)
For Azure Network Connection deployments, you'll need:
- A virtual network (vNet) in your target region (Norway East, France Central or Spain Central)
- Proper service endpoints and connectivity configured for the chosen region
- Updated provisioning policies targeting the new region
Remember: With ANC, the Azure virtual network region determines where your Cloud PC is hosted.
Review the Azure Network Connection documentation.
Recommended next steps
Ready to expand your Windows 365 Frontline deployment to these new regions? Here's how to get started:
- Review your requirements: Determine which region best serves your users' location and compliance needs
- Check your network setup: Verify your Microsoft Hosted Network or Azure Network Connection configuration
- Update provisioning policies: Configure policies to target the new regions
- Deploy and monitor: Roll out Cloud PCs and monitor performance and user satisfaction
Continue the conversation. Find best practices. Bookmark the Windows Tech Community, then follow us on LinkedIn or @MSWindowsITPro for updates. Looking for support? Visit Windows on Microsoft Q&A.
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