MC1043461 – Plan for change: Remote Desktop client for Windows end of support on March 27, 2026

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check before: 2026-03-27

Product:

Microsoft 365 Apps, Teams, Windows 365

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

User impact, Admin impact, Retirement

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Remote Desktop client for Windows will reach end of support on March 27, 2026. Users must migrate to Windows App before this date to continue accessing Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. Remote Desktop Connection (MSTSC) is not affected. Additional resources are provided for the migration.

Details:
Remote Desktop client is the only client addressed with this notification. It is a standalone installer for the purpose of connecting to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. Remote Desktop client will continue to receive all security updates until end of support on March 27, 2026.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-03-29

updated:
2025-03-29

Task Type

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summary for non-techies**

Microsoft announced that the Remote Desktop client for Windows will no longer be supported after March 27, 2026, and users must transition to the Windows App, which offers features like customizable home screens and multimonitor support, while the Remote Desktop Connection (MSTSC) will remain available for connections to other computers.

Direct effects for Operations**

End of Support for Remote Desktop Client
Users will lose access to the Remote Desktop client, which may disrupt their ability to connect to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box if not migrated in time.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-365/end-user-access-cloud-pc, https://aka.ms/RemoteDesktopClient

Migration to Windows App
Without proper preparation, users may face difficulties during the migration process, leading to potential downtime and frustration as they adapt to the new interface and features of the Windows App.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-app/get-started-connect-devices-desktops-apps, https://aka.ms/windowsapp

Loss of Security Updates
Post end of support, the Remote Desktop client will not receive security updates, potentially exposing users to security vulnerabilities if they continue using it without migrating.
   - roles: End Users, Security Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/lifecycle/definitions, https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-365/end-user-access-cloud-pc " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-365/end-user-access-cloud-pc

User Experience Disruption
Users accustomed to the Remote Desktop client may experience a steep learning curve with the Windows App, impacting productivity and user satisfaction during the transition period.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-app/compare-platforms-features?pivots=windows-365, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/windows-365-resources-for-it-pros/4374329

Increased Support Requests
The transition to the Windows App may lead to an increase in support requests as users encounter issues or require assistance, straining IT resources.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Help Desk Personnel
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows-365/end-user-access-cloud-pc, https://aka.ms/windowsapp

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.

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Last updated 3 weeks ago

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