How a Windows 365 Cloud PC Works and What You Need to Get Started

Microsoft 365 & Productivity Tools

How a Windows 365 Cloud PC Works and What You Need to Get Started

Microsoft 365 & Productivity Tools

A Windows 365 Cloud PC gives you access to a full Windows desktop securely hosted in the cloud anytime, anywhere. But how does it actually work, and what do you need to get started?

This article explains how a Cloud PC works in practice, and how Remotly makes it simple for you to get up and running.

What Is a Cloud PC?

A Cloud PC is a complete Windows computer that runs in Microsoft’s data center. You log in via a browser or Remote Desktop app and access your personal desktop, apps, and files just like on a local PC.

Everything is stored and processed in the cloud, which means:

  • You can use any device (PC, Mac, iPad, thin client)
  • Your data is safe if your device is lost or stolen
  • No updates or maintenance required

How Does It Work?

  1. You choose a plan from Remotly
    – For example, the Standard plan with Microsoft 365 and Windows 365 (2 vCPU / 8 GB RAM)
  2. We set up your Cloud PC
    – You’ll receive an email with login instructions and connection options (browser or app)
  3. You log in and start working
    – Your desktop is ready, with apps and files in the Microsoft Cloud
  4. Work from anywhere
    – All files and changes are saved automatically. Close the browser, switch devices—pick up where you left off

What Do You Need?

  • Any modern device with a web browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, etc.)
  • Internet connection (recommended: 10 Mbps or more)
  • No installation needed—but the Remote Desktop app is recommended for performance

What’s Included?

  • Microsoft 365 access (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, etc.)
  • 1 TB OneDrive storage
  • Secure business email with Exchange
  • Cloud PC with your chosen performance specs
  • Optional backup and cybersecurity via Acronis

 

Common Questions

Is it secure to use a Cloud PC?
Yes. All traffic is encrypted, and nothing is stored locally. That means better protection against theft, loss, and attacks.

Do I need to install anything?
No. You can access your Cloud PC directly in the browser. The Remote Desktop app is optional but recommended.

Can multiple users share one Cloud PC?
No. Each Cloud PC is licensed and configured for one user—for optimal performance and security.