Army Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Remote Workspace | ArmyConnect™ (2025)

Who Can Use Army Remote Workspace?

In short, if you are reading this and actively serving in the Army (Active, Guard, or Reserve), then you are set. Download, login, and you’re welcome! Any soldier or DA Civilian with an active A365/M365 license has access to the Army Azure Virtual Desktop. The user must have a login/email that ends with ‘@army.mil.’). Army Google Workspace (AGWS) users will not have access to the virtual desktop. Most AGWS users are soldiers in non-critical positions, junior ranking, or Cadets who do not need a productivity suite and access to NIPR systems.

How Can I Sign-Up for Army AVD?

Most AGWS users are soldiers in non-critical positions, junior ranking, or Cadets who do not need a productivity suite and access to NIPR systems.

  • Step 1: Login to a NIPR computer or use a personal computer with CAC capabilities
  • Step 2: Sign up for onboarding here (CAC required).
  • Step 3: Sign into MilSuite
  • Click on NIPR if you are on a government computer, network, or GFE.
  • Click on commercial if you are signing up from home.
  • Step 4: Click on one of the onboarding links in the right column.
  • Click ‘Access Package Onboarding‘ if you are accessing from home.
  • Click ‘A365 SharePoint Online Onboarding‘ if you are accessing from NIPR, VPN, GFE.
  • Step 5: Sign in to your A365 Account (CAC Required).
  • Step 6: Clock on ‘access page’ if you are not already there.
  • Step 7: Request to access package for the ‘Army 365 Enterprise Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Onboarding‘ for your account.
  • Step 8: Acknowledge responsibilities and Terms of Use and then click continue.
  • Step 9: Wait 15-20 minutes.
  • Step 10: Refresh your page and click on Approvals.
  • Step 11: When the package status is ‘delivered’, your AVD access is complete.
  • Step 12: When the package status is ‘delivered’, your AVD access is complete.

How Can I access Army Enterprise AVD?

The Army AVD is available from most home and commercial networks using a personal or government device using Windows, MacOS , iOS/iPadOS, and Android. Readers reported that the Army Azure Virtual Desktop applications work on Windows, Mac, and the Apple iPad.

  • Step 1: Install the Army Azure Virtual Desktop application of your choice or use the browser. See the chart below.
  • Step 2: For the Remote Desktop Application:
  • Open the application and select ‘subscribe with URL’ on Windows or ‘add workspace’ on MacOS.
  • Input the following link: rdweb.wvd.azure.us.
  • Login to AVD using your A365/M365 account username (your @army.mil email).
  • Select the correct CAC certificate and enter your PIN.
  • Select the server closest to you; East or West.
  • Step 3: When using a web browser. NOTE: there are limitations, see below.
  • Ensure you have a CAC reader plugged in.
  • View the table below or visit the Army AVD web portal here.
  • Login with your A365 email and PIN.

What Applications Can Access the Army Azure Virtual Desktop?

Platform Documentation and download links Version information
WindowsRemote Desktop client (MSI); Azure Virtual or Remote Desktop Store app Access the Army AVD with the Remote Desktop client for Windows
Web Access the Army AVD with the Remote Desktop client for Web
macOS Access the Army AVD with the Remote Desktop client for macOS
iOS/iPadOS Access the Army AVD with the Remote Desktop client for iOS / iPadOS
Android/Chrome OS Access the Army AVD with the Remote Desktop client for Android / Chrome OS

What Are the Benefits of Using Army Azure Virtual Desktop on a Personal Device?

Using Army Azure Virtual Desktop on a personal device offers several compelling benefits, enhancing both the flexibility and security of military computing resources. Here are six key advantages:

  • Access from Anywhere: One of the most significant benefits of the Army Remote Desktop is the ability to access virtualized Windows 11 and Windows 10 desktops and apps from any location. This feature is particularly advantageous for military personnel who may need to access sensitive information or applications from various locations, ensuring they can stay productive and connected no matter where they are stationed.
  • Maintain Full Control: Despite the flexibility offered by remote access, the Army AVD allows for complete control over configuration and management. This means that IT departments can ensure that all security protocols are followed, updates are applied, and configurations are set according to the specific requirements of the military, all while users access the system remotely.
  • Enhanced Security: Given the sensitive nature of military data, security is of paramount importance. Azure Virtual Desktop benefits from the robust security measures of Azure, including data encryption, network security, and compliance features designed to protect sensitive information. This means that even when accessed from personal devices, the data and applications remain secure against potential threats.
  • Privacy and Accountability: Army AVD ensures robust security and privacy by implementing isolation mechanisms that separate the virtual desktop environment from the host machine. This isolation is critical in maintaining the integrity of sensitive data and applications.
  • Network Isolation: Azure Virtual Desktop establishes network isolation between the virtual desktop environment and the host machine, ensuring that communication between the two is restricted and secure. This prevents unauthorized access to the virtual desktop from the host machine and vice versa, enhancing overall security.
  • Data Encryption: All data transmitted between the host machine and the Army Remote Workspace in AVD is encrypted, adding an extra layer of protection to prevent unauthorized interception or tampering. This encryption ensures that sensitive information remains secure even if intercepted during transmission.

The Army Remote Desktop presents a flexible, secure, and cost-effective solution for accessing military computing resources from personal devices, offering significant advantages in terms of accessibility, control, cost management, security, and reliability.

What Are the Limitations of Army AVD?

Azure Virtual Desktop is a desktop and app virtualization service that operates on Azure. It offers the ability to deliver a Windows experience, present individual apps, optimize Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise, run custom apps, deliver SaaS, replace existing Remote Desktop Services (RDS) like Citrix, and manage desktops and apps across different Windows operating systems.

  • Limited CAC Certificate Use: The Army does not install ActivClient and the HID Credential Management Extension on the Army Azure Virtual Desktop. Users report that S/MIME is not available when using the browser option. We recommend that all users on AVD and those on GFE transition to sensitivity labels.
  • No Local Access: The Army prioritized safety, network security, and user privacy by cutting access to shared drives, printers, and intranets. This reduction helps maintain the fidelity of the system.
  • No Other Remote Desktop Clients: Citrix, Microsoft RDS, or VMware will not work inside the AVD application. The Army calls this “double hopping” and prohibits it.
  • Limited Software: The Army only installs software with an enterprise license; no other software is available, which may limit the number of users. They can fall back to their issued GFE.
  • No Local Printing: We mentioned there is no local access which also includes printers. While printing in most instances is a thing of the past, there are times you will need to access your officer multifunction device to deliver a hard copy of your trusty TPS Reports for the next meeting.
Army Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Remote Workspace | ArmyConnect™ (1)

How Can I Use AVD Printing With the Army Remote Workspace?

Yes, we just wrote about how there is no printing access, but PrinterLogic successfully completed a print client trial with USSOCOM where they “improved print availability, streamlined printer deployments and future-proofed their print environment.” PrinterLogic enables users logged into the Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD).

Note: Only users with Administrative access to the Army Remote Desktop on Army AVD can ensure your printer is part of the PrinterLogic system. Note every installation is present.

  • Step 1: Login to the Army Remote Workspace.
  • Step 2: Login to the Army Unified Directory Service (AUDS).
  • Option 1: Go to https://print.army.mil in your browser.
  • Option 2: Click on the PrinterLogic client icon in the task tray. Click on the down-facing or upside-down chevron.
  • Step 3: Verify the correct printer client login. Click on your profile picture in the upper right.
  • There are two login credentials for the print client.
  • Verify you are logged in with your A365/M365 account. For example: [emailprotected].
  • Logout if you see your login in the following format: \123456789.mil and login with your A365/M365 account.
  • Step 4: Select your printer based on your location, installation, building and room number.
  • Step 5: Once selected, install the printer.
Army Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Remote Workspace | ArmyConnect™ (2025)

FAQs

What is army AVD? ›

The Army Microsoft 365 (M365) license now includes the Army Azure Virtual Desktop for all soldiers and civilians with a valid license. This software as a service (SaaS) provides users with access to a suite of productivity and communication applications on government and personal devices.

What is Azure AVD workspace? ›

AVD provides a comprehensive set of features, including multi-session Windows 10, integrated security, and support for both Windows and non-Windows clients. Both AVD and Windows 365 offer similar functionalities such as remote access, multi-session capabilities, and integration with other Microsoft services.

What is RDS vs AVD in Azure? ›

Azure AVD offers a streamlined management experience compared to RDS. While RDS requires configuring and maintaining various components such as the RD Gateway, RD Connection Broker, and RD Web Access, AVD simplifies this process.

Does Army AVD work on Chromebooks? ›

One option available to Windows and Mac users (NOT Chrome OS) is the use of AVD. Here is how to set it up.

What is a VM in the Army? ›

Vehicle Mechanic - Roles in the Army - Army Jobs.

What is Army RDP? ›

Reciprocal Defense Procurement (RDP) Agreements

Listed below are links to current Reciprocal Procurement Agreements between the Department of Defense and its counterparts in foreign governments.

What is the difference between AVD and VM? ›

If you need a customizable, isolated environment for applications or databases, Azure VM is the way to go. However, if your focus is on providing a consistent desktop experience to multiple users with centralized management, Azure Virtual Desktop is the ideal solution.

What is the difference between virtual workspace and virtual desktop? ›

Workspace Virtualization delivers a full version of applications and software accessible to work via cloud service. Desktop Virtualization creates and stores multiple user data in the centralized server or cloud, giving secure remote access to the employees.

Why use Azure AVD? ›

Azure Virtual Desktop in the cloud supports delivery of transformative products and services. Infrastructure scale flexibility requirements. By using cloud services, an organization can seamlessly scale up and down with infrastructure. Choice and flexibility.

What does AVD stand for in Azure? ›

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD and formerly Windows Virtual Desktop, WVD) is a desktop and app virtualization service that runs on the cloud. AVD offers several options for your virtual apps and desktops; you can: Set up a multi-session Windows 10 deployment that delivers a full Windows 10 with scalability.

How do I set up AVD in Azure? ›

To do this, perform the following steps:
  1. Open Azure Portal as an Administrator.
  2. Search for Virtual Networks.
  3. Click on Create.
  4. Select your subscription type and add the resource group that will have access to the network. ...
  5. Give a name to the virtual network and select the region.
Jan 28, 2022

What is the difference between remote desktop and Virtual Desktop? ›

Typically, windows virtual Desktop (WVD) differs from remote desktop services (RDS) since WVD focuses on providing a central location for users to access various applications hosted by a central server. At the same time, RDS offers a platform where users can access a networked computer from a remote location.

Can a virtual desktop connect to a phone? ›

You can access your Remote Desktop with your Android phone using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app in the Play Store.

How to use Azure Virtual Desktop on Chromebook? ›

In the Chromebook open the Google Chrome web browser. Search for the "Microsoft Remote Desktop" app in Chrome Web Store and Install the app and launch it. Click the "New" button to create a new remote desktop connection. Enter the IP address or DNS name of your Azure VM in the "PC name" field.

Can you access army email from home? ›

You can access your Army email in just a few simple steps: Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your web browser. This is a required step due to security measures. Access the Army email login page by clicking on the DoD Login Portal.

What is Army advanced infantry training? ›

Advanced individual training is where you will learn the skills needed to perform a specific Army job, such as artillery or engineering.

What is DVA in the Army? ›

Army | Department of Veterans' Affairs.

What is the Army Civilian Acquired skills Program? ›

The Army Civilian Acquired Skills Program (ACASP) provides the opportunity to those who have received civilian training, education or experience in an area that would apply to an MOS, the opportunity to enlist at an advanced rank of specialist and receive a higher pay grade.

What is the Army automated installation entry program? ›

AIE Overview

AIE-3 is a centrally fielded Army program that enhances security at the installation ACPs and expedites access for authorized personnel and vehicles. AIE-3 validates ID credentials against authoritative databases, with the primary purpose of verifying that the identification document presented is valid.

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