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Windows 365 GPU-enabled Cloud PCs now generally available

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Seneca_Friend
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Aug 01, 2024

In the fast-paced world of cloud computing, the way we access and manage computing resources has transformed, and the integration of graphics processing units (GPUs) into cloud computing has significantly enhanced this revolution. GPUs are crucial for graphics-intensive workloads because they accelerate tasks that demand massive parallel processing power. They provide significant benefits across various sectors: for example, data scientists can expedite complex computations and large-scale data analysis, game designers can render high-quality graphics in real-time, and creative professionals enjoy faster processing speeds for tasks such as 3D modeling and video rendering.

We are happy to announce that GPU-enabled Cloud PCs are now generally available for Windows 365 Enterprise and Frontline editions. Users can now handle advanced workloads—that were traditionally limited by the constraints of local hardware—in the cloud with increased speed and efficiency. Sensitive data and high-value digital assets can be processed and stored securely in the cloud, mitigating the risks associated with local storage.

"The Windows 365 GPU Standard license provides an all-in-one, scalable desktop virtualization solution that was easy to scale, had low management overheads, and provided reliable access to GPU capabilities for advanced computational functions."  –Peter Short, General Manager, Innovation and Technical Services, Penten

The following configurations are available today through Windows 365 Enterprise and Frontline editions:

  • Windows 365 GPU Standard
  • Windows 365 GPU Super
  • Windows 365 GPU Max

These GPU licenses can be purchased and assigned just like other Windows 365 licenses.

To learn more, visit Windows 365 GPU-enabled Cloud PCs and explore New GPU-enabled Windows 365 experiences on Microsoft Mechanics.

FAQs

Which editions of Windows 365 support GPU-enabled Cloud PCs?
GPU-enabled Cloud PCs are generally available for Windows 365 Enterprise and Frontline editions.

Is a GPU being offered as an add-on to existing Cloud PC licenses?
No, GPU capabilities are being offered as standalone GPU-enabled Cloud PCs.

Can a GPU be dynamically added and removed from the configuration that has already been enabled?
No, GPU-enabled Cloud PCs cannot be dynamically added and removed from the entitled configuration.

Are GPU-enabled Cloud PC trials available?
Trial subscriptions are available for qualified organizations and are subject to evaluation and charge. Please contact your Microsoft account representative for more information.

How much do the GPU-enabled Cloud PCs cost?
Please contact your Microsoft account team or Microsoft partner.

Which drivers are supported by GPU-enabled Cloud PCs?
GPU-enabled Cloud PCs will come pre-provisioned with the correct driver needed for the best experience. Approved NVIDIA drivers can be found here, and AMD drivers can be found here. The use of any external drivers, including those from NVIDIA or AMD websites, are not supported.

Can I run AI workloads on GPU-enabled Cloud PCs?
Yes, GPU-enabled Cloud PCs are compatible with and support AI functionalities in software applications like Microsoft Copilot. For AI development or tasks in AI Toolkit for Visual Studio Code that need intensive GPU processing, please use the Max GPU-enabled Cloud PCs.

Want to learn more? Read the Windows 365 GPU-enabled Cloud PC technical documentation.

To learn more about three years of enabling flexible work with Windows 365, read Windows 365 at three years: Customer-centric solutions for security, management, and productivity.


Continue the conversation. Find best practices. Bookmark the Windows 365 Community, then follow us @MSWindowsITPro on X and on LinkedIn.

Updated Sep 03, 2024
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