Configuring and Operating Windows Virtual Desktop on Microsoft Azure with Eazzy Learn

Introduction to Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD)

Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) is a cloud-based desktop and app virtualization service provided by Microsoft Azure. It allows organizations to deploy scalable virtual desktops and remote applications securely from the cloud. With WVD, businesses can provide employees with a seamless Windows 10/11 experience, multi-session capabilities, and optimized performance while reducing infrastructure costs.

WVD is ideal for remote workforces, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, and secure access to enterprise applications. It integrates with Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) for identity management and supports hybrid deployments for enterprises with on-premises dependencies.

Key Benefits of Windows Virtual Desktop

• Cost Efficiency – Eliminates the need for expensive on-premises hardware by leveraging Azure’s pay-as-you-go model.
• Scalability – Easily scale up or down based on user demand without physical infrastructure constraints.
• Security & Compliance – Built-in security features, including Azure AD, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and encrypted connections.
• Flexibility – Supports Windows 10/11 Enterprise multi-session, Windows Server-based desktops, and remote app delivery.
• Optimized Performance – Uses Azure’s global infrastructure for low-latency access and high availability.

Prerequisites for Deploying WVD

Before setting up Windows Virtual Desktop, ensure the following prerequisites are met:

• Azure Subscription – An active Azure subscription with sufficient permissions to create resources.
• Azure Active Directory (AD) – Synchronized with on-premises AD (if using hybrid identity).
• Virtual Network (VNet) – Configured for connectivity between WVD and other Azure services.
• Licensing – Users must have a valid Microsoft 365 E3/E5, Windows E3/E5, or per-user licensing for WVD.
• Permissions – Global Admin or Contributor role in Azure to deploy WVD resources.

Step-by-Step Guide to Configuring WVD on Azure

✦ Register the Windows Virtual Desktop Resource Provider

Before deploying WVD, register the resource provider in Azure:

• Log in to the Azure Portal
• Navigate to Subscriptions > Select your subscription > Resource providers.
• Search for Microsoft.DesktopVirtualization and click Register.

✦ Create a Host Pool

A host pool consists of virtual machines (VMs) that deliver desktops and apps to users.

• In the Azure Portal, search for Windows Virtual Desktop.
• Select Host pools > + Add.
• Configure the following:
  • Host pool name – A unique identifier.
  • Location – Preferred Azure region.
  • Validation environment – Choose No for production.
  • Host pool type – Pooled (multi-session) or Personal (dedicated VM per user).
  • Load balancing algorithm – Breadth-first (even distribution) or Depth-first (maximize VM usage).
• Click Next: Virtual Machines.

✦ Configure Virtual Machines for the Host Pool

• Select + Add virtual machines.
• Choose an Image (Windows 10/11 Enterprise multi-session or Windows Server).
• Configure VM size (e.g., D4s v3 for optimal performance).
• Specify the number of VMs and naming pattern.
• Set up Network and Security:
  • Virtual Network & Subnet – Ensure connectivity to Azure AD.
  • Public IP – Optional (use Azure Bastion for secure access).
• Enable Domain Join (Azure AD or Hybrid AD).
• Click Next: Workspace.

✦ Create a Workspace

A workspace groups host pools for easier management.

• Select Create new workspace.
• Enter a Workspace name (e.g., WVD-Production).
• Choose the Location.
• Click Review + Create > Create.

✦ Assign Users to the WVD Application Group

An application group defines which desktops or apps users can access.

• Go to Application groups > + Add.
• Select Host pool and choose Desktop application group or RemoteApp group.
• Enter a name (e.g., Sales-Team-Apps).
• Under Assignments, add users or groups from Azure AD.
• Click Review + Create > Create.

✦ Configure User Access and Security Policies

• Conditional Access Policies (Optional):

• In Azure AD, enforce MFA or device compliance for WVD access.

• Network Security Groups (NSGs):

• Restrict RDP access to trusted IPs.

• Session Host Optimization:

• Use FSLogix for profile containers (enhances user experience).

✦ Deploy FSLogix for User Profiles

FSLogix ensures persistent user profiles across sessions.

• Create an Azure Storage Account (File Shares).
• Install FSLogix Agent on session hosts.
• Configure Group Policy or Registry settings to point to the file share.

Managing and Monitoring WVD

✦ Azure Monitor for WVD

• Track performance, session activity, and connectivity issues.
• Set up alerts for VM scaling or login failures.

✦ Scaling Host Pools

• Use Azure Automation or Scaling Plans to auto-adjust VMs based on demand.

✦ Updating Session Hosts

• Apply Windows updates via Azure Update Management or Microsoft Endpoint Manager.

Best Practices for WVD Deployment

• Right-Size VMs – Choose VM sizes based on workload (e.g., GPU for graphics-heavy apps).
• Optimize Network Latency – Deploy WVD in regions closest to users.
• Enable Monitoring – Use Azure Monitor and Log Analytics for troubleshooting.
• Backup Critical Data – Regularly backup FSLogix profiles and Azure resources.
• Train End Users – Provide guides on accessing WVD via web, desktop, or mobile clients.

Conclusion

Windows Virtual Desktop on Azure revolutionizes remote work by providing a secure, scalable, and cost-effective virtual desktop solution. By following this guide, IT administrators can successfully deploy, configure, and manage WVD to enhance productivity while maintaining security and compliance.

For hands-on learning, explore Eazzy Learn’s expert-led training on WVD to master deployment strategies, optimization techniques, and real-world troubleshooting.