Top 5 Windows Cloud Hosting Options for ISVs in 2025

As more Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) move away from on-premises deployment, Windows cloud hosting has become a must-have. Whether you’re modernizing a legacy desktop application or supporting remote users, hosting your software in the cloud improves accessibility, scalability, and efficiency.

But not every hosting option is designed with ISVs in mind—especially those delivering full-featured Windows applications. Below, we’ll explore the top Windows cloud hosting options in 2025, focusing on app-first delivery, ease of deployment, and cost-effectiveness.

What Is Windows Cloud Hosting?

Windows cloud hosting refers to running Windows-based applications or desktop environments on virtual infrastructure hosted in the cloud. Instead of installing software locally or managing physical servers, your application is deployed on a remote server—accessible through the internet.

This model allows ISVs to:

• Deliver Windows software to any device
  
  
• Avoid managing on-premise hardware
  
  
• Scale users up or down on demand
  
  
• Centralize updates, security, and backups
  
  
• Reduce customer setup and support burden
  
  

Some platforms offer full virtual desktops (like Windows 365), while others focus on publishing individual applications directly (like ISVHost with GO-Global). The best fit depends on whether you’re delivering a desktop experience or just a single application.

Top Windows Cloud Hosting Options for ISVs in 2025

1. ISVHost with GO-Global – Built Specifically for ISVs

ISVHost is a managed Windows application hosting platform powered by GO-Global, a lightweight remote access solution. Together, they give ISVs everything needed to host and deliver their software through the cloud—without rewriting it or managing complex infrastructure.

Why ISVHost is Ideal for Windows Cloud Hosting:

• Application-first hosting – Users access your app, not a full desktop
  
  
• No RDS or Citrix required – Reduces licensing complexity and cost
  
  
• Cross-platform access – Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebooks, and mobile
  
  
• Fully managed – Hosting, updates, and monitoring are all handled for you
  
  
• Simple onboarding – Fast deployment and minimal configuration
  
  

If you’re looking to turn your on-premise Windows application into a SaaS-style product, ISVHost with GO-Global provides the most direct and efficient path.

2. Microsoft Azure Virtual Machines

Azure allows you to spin up Windows Server or Windows 10/11 virtual machines in the cloud. It’s highly customizable and integrates with the broader Microsoft ecosystem.

Best For: ISVs with DevOps resources who want full control over their environments.

Considerations: Not optimized for app-first delivery unless paired with other tools like RDS or Citrix. You’ll also need to manage security, updates, and backups.

3. Amazon EC2 for Windows

Amazon EC2 supports Windows-based instances you can use for hosting applications, development environments, or backend services.

Best For: ISVs already operating in AWS or requiring deep cloud service integration.

Considerations: Offers flexibility but requires technical expertise and effort to configure. Licensing and performance tuning are your responsibility.

4. V2 Cloud

V2 Cloud provides fully managed virtual desktops with Windows environments that are easy to deploy. It’s tailored toward teams who need persistent desktop access.

Best For: ISVs supporting customers who expect a full Windows desktop experience.

Considerations: Better suited for desktop hosting than app-only delivery. Costs may rise with increased user activity.

5. Windows 365 Cloud PC

Windows 365 offers persistent cloud-based desktops through a predictable per-user subscription. Sessions are accessible via browser or Remote Desktop client.

Best For: ISVs that need to offer full desktops to internal users or clients.

Considerations: Not designed for lightweight, application-only delivery. You’ll be provisioning entire desktops even if only one program is needed.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Windows cloud hosting option depends on your goals as an ISV. If you’re trying to support full desktop environments, tools like Windows 365 and V2 Cloud may make sense. But if your priority is application-first delivery without the infrastructure overhead, ISVHost with GO-Global is the clear leader.

It’s the fastest way to deliver your Windows application in the cloud—securely, reliably, and without rewriting your code or managing complex environments. In 2025, that’s the kind of simplicity ISVs need to stay competitive.

Are you an ISV exploring cloud-based application delivery? Contact us to learn how GO-Global can help you streamline software access for your end users. Or download a free trial to test it yourself.