Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode now available in Brazil South, Italy North, and West Europe

We're pleased to announce that Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode continues its global expansion with availability in three new regions spanning Brazil and Europe.

Organizations can now deploy Windows 365 Frontline shared mode Cloud PCs in these regions:

South America geography:

• Brazil South

Europe geography:

• Italy North
• West Europe

This expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing Cloud PCs closer to where shift-based workers operate, enabling organizations to deliver responsive, compliant, and cost-effective desktop experiences. Benefits of the expansion of Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode for these regions include:

• Geographic proximity: Reduces network latency by placing Cloud PCs in regions closest to your users. Organizations can significantly improve responsiveness with faster sign-ins, quicker app launches, and smoother interactions; all contribute to better experiences for time-sensitive workflows.
• Regulatory compliance: Addresses data residency requirements for industry-specific regulations. Many organizations face regulatory requirements that dictate where data can be stored and processed. With these new regional options, organizations can configure Windows 365 Frontline deployments that keep Cloud PC data within required geographical boundaries.
• Aligning with existing infrastructure: Organizations already operating Azure resources in these regions can now co-locate Windows 365 Frontline Cloud PCs, simplifying network architecture and potentially reducing data transfer costs. This alignment creates opportunities for more integrated cloud strategies.

Empowering task-based workers worldwide

Windows 365 Frontline in shared mode addresses a specific workforce need: employees who require intermittent access to Windows applications and tools without the overhead of dedicated, always-on Cloud PCs.

What makes shared mode different?

Unlike traditional Cloud PC deployments where each user receives a dedicated virtual machine, shared mode enables multiple users to access the same Cloud PC at different times. The benefits of shared mode include:

• Non-concurrent access: Only one user connects at a time, ensuring optimal performance
• Automatic cleanup: User profiles and data are deleted after sign-out
• License efficiency: Organizations can provision Cloud PC access for more users with fewer licenses
• Rapid availability: The next user can connect as soon as the previous session ends

This model works exceptionally well for roles where employees need periodic access to specific tools—such as checking inventory systems, accessing training materials, or completing administrative tasks—rather than continuous desktop use throughout their workday.

Cloud Apps: Focused access for streamlined workflows

Beyond full desktop experiences, Windows 365 Frontline supports Cloud Apps delivery in shared mode. This capability enables organizations to provide users with access to specific applications—like web browsers, line-of-business tools, or communication platforms—without provisioning an entire Windows desktop.

Cloud Apps are particularly valuable when users need quick access to one or two critical applications rather than navigating a full desktop environment.

Getting started with shared mode in 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:

1. Navigate to your provisioning policy in the Microsoft Intune admin center
2. Select the appropriate geography (South America or Europe)
3. Choose your desired region:
   1. Brazil: Brazil South
   2. Europe: Italy North or West Europe

Using Azure Network Connection (ANC)

For Azure Network Connection deployments, you'll need:

• A virtual network (vNet) in your target region (Brazil South, Italy North or West Europe)
• Proper service endpoints and connectivity configured for the chosen region
• Updated provisioning policies targeting the new region

Remember: With ANC, the Azure virtual network's region determines where your Cloud PC is hosted.

Review the Azure Network Connection documentation and confirm your ANC setup supports your chosen region, including virtual networks and necessary service endpoints.

Recommended next steps

Ready to expand your Windows 365 Frontline deployment to these new regions? Here's how to get started:

1. Review your requirements: Determine which region best serves your users' location and compliance needs
2. Check your network setup: Verify your Microsoft Hosted Network or Azure Network Connection configuration
3. Update provisioning policies: Configure policies to target the new regions
4. Deploy and monitor: Roll out Cloud PCs and monitor performance and user satisfaction

To explore configuration options and learn more about what's possible next, head over to the Windows 365 documentation.

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.