Microsoft has announced that it will end its Microsoft Managed Desktop service on July 31, 2024. The service, which was launched in 2018, aimed to provide organizations with a comprehensive endpoint management solution that included device provisioning, security monitoring, and performance optimization. Microsoft Managed Desktop customers were required to have Microsoft 365 E5 or E3 licenses and use approved hardware devices, such as Microsoft Surface or some OEM models.
The Microsoft Managed Desktop service was designed to free up IT resources and enable innovation by outsourcing routine tasks to Microsoft experts. The service was especially suited for the remote work scenario, as it ensured consistent and secure user experiences across devices and locations. The e-book also hinted that the service would be available on Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop in the future, but this seems to be no longer the case.
Microsoft has not given any official reason for discontinuing the service, but it has assured its customers that it will work closely with them to provide support and guidance for the transition. The company has also stated that customers will retain their configurations after the service ends, but they will lose access to Microsoft engineers and the Microsoft Managed Desktop Security Operations Center. Customers will likely have to find alternative solutions for their endpoint management and security needs.
Microsoft has been relatively quiet about the Microsoft Managed Desktop service since its launch, and it is unclear how many customers have adopted it. The company did have some partner support for the service, such as Dell Technologies and HP Inc., which offered device-as-a-service options for Microsoft Managed Desktop customers. However, it seems that the service did not gain enough traction or profitability to justify its continuation.
The end of the Microsoft Managed Desktop service may be disappointing for some customers who relied on it for their endpoint management and security. However, Microsoft still offers other solutions for these areas, such as Microsoft Endpoint Manager, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, and Windows Update for Business. Customers may also consider other third-party vendors or partners that offer similar services.
Last Updated on November 8, 2024 12:08 pm CET