Finding It Virtual-ly Impossible to Choose Between AVD, W365 Or Dev Box? Let Us Explain.

When Microsoft first introduced Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), it seemed a simple alternative to the familiar Remote Desktop Services (RDS). Time, tech and AVD have moved on. Now there are Windows 365 and Dev Box virtual desktops too. Each offers distinct advantages, but which is best for you or your clients?

Let’s translate the acronyms and explain how these virtual workspaces solve business challenges – whether you want to empower remote developers, reduce overheads, or make hybrid working easier.

February 5, 2025

Unboxing Microsoft Dev Box - The Developer's Dream Machine

It can cost a fortune and induce a logistical headache tailoring workstations with all the bells and whistles software developers need. Trickier yet if they’re remote or are only required short-term. You’re stuck paying for long-term licenses and hardware or accepting security risks if developers use their own equipment.

Microsoft Dev Box is the answer – it’s a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) available through Microsoft Azure. But it’s different from other VDIs. Dev Box fulfils the niche role of providing developers (specifically remote contractors) high-spec workspaces easily, quickly and cost-effectively.

It comes pre-loaded with all the tools developers need, so they can start coding in minutes. It’s what Microsoft calls a ‘ready to code’ environment. And because it’s cloud-based, it adapts to technology changes. Changes which would normally cause delays and other problems if developers’ workstations don’t keep up.

Microsoft Dev Box is a cloud-based desktop from Microsoft Azure – built for the dynamic needs of software developers.

Security and Control: Keep Your Code Safe While Keeping Developers Happy

Dev Box isn’t just about developer convenience – it’s built with enterprise-grade security in mind. Through Microsoft Intune, admins get complete control over patching, security configurations, policies, and governance. This means you can maintain tight security standards without slowing down your developers.

Each Dev Box is customisable to specific project or developer requirements. Working on an AI project that needs extra GPU power? No problem. Need to test on different operating systems? Easy.

What’s more, it’s infinitely scalable and priced by consumption. When the project’s done, simply archive or ‘hibernate’ a Dev Box so you don’t pay for unnecessary processing or licensing. Turn it back on whenever you need it – perfect for those contractors who might return for future projects.

Other VDI Options to Consider

So, Dev Box works for developers, but what about a virtual workspace for other roles? Let’s introduce the rest of the virtual family.

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

AVD is the most feature-rich and customisable cloud-based desktop Microsoft currently offers, ideal for larger organisations looking for complete customisation.

From a simple desktop for checking emails, to high performance tasks including CAD modelling or video editing, AVD has the options and scalability to achieve anything. It’s a breeze for IT admins to manage too. Roll out and control AVD centrally so it’s perfect for a frictionless hybrid working environment on a global scale. If security is key, AVD is the way to go with a vast amount of security configurations. You can add more security features beyond Intune and the pre-configured Zero Trust Security model that Windows 365 offers.

Like Dev Box, prices are based on consumption and configuration, so you’ll only pay for what you use. You get full control to flex your environment. For example, scale AVD back at night when most users log off, so you don’t pay for powerful processing when you don’t need it. Alternatively, scale up instantly to meet sporadic high business demands.

Windows 365

Windows 365 is perfect for standard day-to-day use. You get the same security benefits from Microsoft Intune – easing the burden that admins have when managing traditional desktops.

Windows 365 has fixed monthly fees per user, so it’s ideal when you want a predictable, steady cash flow. Choose from two types of monthly plan depending on processing requirements:

Business provides the 365 range of productivity tools and line-of-business apps.

Enterprise is for high-performance workloads and supports Microsoft Visual Studio, Power BI, and Dynamics 365.

You don’t need a Microsoft Azure subscription – so, if you or your clients want to keep admin easy and overheads low, Windows 365 is the answer.

Tailored Recommendations to Make Your Virtual Workspace a Reality

In a nutshell, Microsoft offers a virtual desktop for virtually any business scenario. If your customers just want day-to-day functionality at a fixed price, recommend them Windows 365. For higher processing power with robust security and greater control, AVD is more suitable. For software developing, it’s got to be Dev Box. Each offers scalability and security backed up with the power of the full Microsoft stack.

ARTICLE AUTHOR

Peter Hodgkinson

Azure Business Support Specialist at Westcoast Cloud.

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Finding It Virtual-ly Impossible to Choose Between AVD, W365 Or Dev Box? Let Us Explain.

Unboxing Microsoft Dev Box - The Developer's Dream Machine

Security and Control: Keep Your Code Safe While Keeping Developers Happy

Other VDI Options to Consider

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Windows 365

Tailored Recommendations to Make Your Virtual Workspace a Reality

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