Global hardware shortages continue to affect organisations across the UK and beyond.
Laptop and desktop availability is tightening and lead times are rising. For many teams this creates challenges for onboarding, device refresh cycles, branch openings and day‑to‑day productivity.
There is a practical alternative that removes reliance on physical hardware while improving security and flexibility. Cloud PCs, powered by Microsoft Windows 365, give your users a full Windows desktop that runs securely on almost any device. This helps your organisation stay productive even when new hardware is delayed.
Cisilion helps organisations deploy, secure and manage Cloud PCs as part of a modern workplace strategy.
What Is a Cloud PC?
A Cloud PC is a dedicated Windows 365 device that runs in Azure.
Your users access it from any connected device and your IT team manages it through Microsoft Endpoint Manager in exactly the same way they manage physical devices.
Cloud PCs provide:
- a consistent and secure Windows desktop
- always‑up‑to‑date, auto patched builds
- user‑restorable environments
- the ability to run on older hardware, personal devices or temporary devices
- a fast, familiar experience from any browser or installed app
All data stays in the Cloud which supports modern security, compliance and Zero Trust principles.
Why Cloud PCs Solve Hardware Challenges
Cloud PCs remove the dependency on new laptops or desktops. This gives you immediate options when hardware supply is restricted or when you need to move quickly.
You can:
- extend the life of existing devices
- allow contractors or staff to use secure Cloud PCs on their personal devices
- support urgent onboarding without waiting for hardware
- equip temporary staff or branch openings instantly
- reduce risk by keeping all data in Azure
Once configured, Cloud PCs can be deployed in seconds which helps your organisation remain agile during unpredictable supply chain conditions.
Works on Windows 10 Devices Too
If your estate still includes older Windows 10 devices, Windows 365 licences include free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates. This gives you more time to refresh hardware without compromising security.
Do You Still Need Hardware?
Yes, and Cloud PCs work alongside it.
Cisilion can provide dedicated Cloud PC endpoints called Windows 365 Link devices from Microsoft and soon Dell and Acer. These devices cost roughly £300 through Westcoast and are designed to deliver fast, secure Cloud PC performance using technologies such as Microsoft Pluton and TPM.
If you want traditional laptops or desktops, we can still help you source them. Supply is tight across the entire industry, so planning ahead and securing stock early is more important than ever.
What You Can Add to Strengthen Your Environment
Cloud PCs naturally create opportunities to improve your wider digital workplace. You can enhance your environment with:
- Windows 11 upgrade and adoption services
- security and compliance assessments
- Microsoft licensing enhancements
- Cloud security solutions from Cisco
- network visibility tools such as Cisco ThousandEyes
- Cisilion Professional Services for deployment, configuration and support
This helps you build a secure, flexible and scalable end user environment that is not constrained by hardware availability.
Want to See a Demo?
Cisilion can provide demonstrations, trial licences, proof of value pilots or full deployments.
You can explore the experience with your own applications and users before making a decision.
Turning Disruption into Opportunity
Chip shortages will continue to affect hardware supply for some time. However your organisation does not need to pause projects or slow down digital transformation. Many employees may already have access to devices that can run a Cloud PC securely.
Cloud PCs give you a fast, resilient and secure solution that keeps your business moving. They allow you to support modern work, protect data and maintain continuity without waiting for new devices to arrive.
Cisilion can help you design, deploy and manage Cloud PCs as part of a secure modern workplace strategy that reduces risk and improves agility.