November 1, 2025: Microsoft stops accepting new customers for Microsoft Dev Box. Its developer-focused Cloud PC capabilities are now part of Windows 365, including Windows 365 Frontline. Existing Dev Box customers continue using and scaling their deployments. Organizations that evaluated Dev Box before this date may request onboarding exceptions.
Microsoft Dev Box, launched in July 2023, is a Cloud PC (cloud-hosted personal computer) service optimized for software developers. It provided ready-to-code workstations in the cloud. As of November 1, 2025, Microsoft integrates Dev Box capabilities into Windows 365. This change simplifies Microsoft’s cloud offerings by consolidating services.
New Dev Box sign-ups are no longer accepted. However, existing customers remain fully supported and can expand their deployments. Organizations that tested Dev Box before the cutoff may request an exception to onboard after November 1, 2025.
What is Windows 365 Dev Box
Windows 365 is a cloud service that delivers a full Windows desktop to any device. It is designed for secure, remote access to work environments. Dev Box was a specialized version of this service for developers, offering pre-configured development tools and scalable cloud hardware.
Now, Dev Box capabilities are part of Windows 365. Developer-ready Cloud PCs are provisioned and managed through the Windows 365 platform. Windows 365 Frontline also supports Dev Box features. This edition allows one license to cover up to three Cloud PCs, with only one active at a time. It suits teams working in shifts or across time zones.
Key Features
Windows 365 with Dev Box capabilities offers several benefits for development teams:
- Cloud-hosted PCs: Developers access powerful Windows desktops remotely.
- Pre-configured environments: Dev Boxes include tools like Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) and Software Development Kits (SDKs).
- Fast provisioning: New Dev Boxes can be created quickly via a self-service portal.
- Centralized management: IT (Information Technology) admins manage Dev Boxes using Microsoft Intune and enforce security policies.
- Custom images: Organizations tailor Dev Boxes to project needs.
- Persistent sessions: Developers can hibernate and resume work without losing progress.
These features support flexible, secure, and scalable development workflows.
Licensing
With Dev Box now part of Windows 365, licensing is unified under the Windows 365 model.
Each user requires a Windows 365 license. Windows 365 Frontline allows shared access across multiple users, with one active Cloud PC at a time.
Licensing requirements include Windows Enterprise, Microsoft Intune, and Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory). These components are often included in Microsoft 365 plans such as Enterprise E3 or E5.
As licensing specialists, we at SCHNEIDER IT MANAGEMENT help organizations understand and navigate Microsoft’s licensing models. We provide expert advice to ensure compliance and cost-efficiency. If you are unsure how to transition from Dev Box to Windows 365, we are here to support you.
More information
Details and the exception request form are available at:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/dev-box/dev-box-windows-365-announcement
For our Microsoft page, please visit: https://www.schneider.im/software/microsoft.
Please contact us for expert services on your specific Microsoft software and online services requirements and to request a quote today.
