w365: Managing Cloud pc frequent disconnects due to idle session timeout

Recently, many of our users started complaining that their cloud pc’s are getting disconnected very often and it’s disrupting their work. 

We see that the cloud pc gets disconnected if their session was idle with no activity for 15 mins. 

Managing Frequent Disconnects and Session Timeouts in Windows 365 Cloud PC:

Windows 365 Cloud PC is a robust platform that enables seamless access to a personalized Windows experience from anywhere. However, users might occasionally face issues with frequent disconnects and session timeouts due to inactivity. This can be frustrating, especially if you are in the middle of an important task. In this blog, we will explore the causes of these disconnects and provide solutions to manage session timeouts effectively.

Understanding Session Timeouts and Disconnects

Idle and Inactivity Timeout

Windows 365 Cloud PC sessions might disconnect after 15 minutes of inactivity. This is a default setting to optimize resource usage and ensure security. Inactivity here means no user input (keyboard or mouse) is detected.

Session Timeout

Additionally, sessions may have a 15-minute session timeout. This means that even if the session is active, it will disconnect after a certain period if no user input is detected.

Causes of Disconnects

1. Idle Timeout:

   - If you leave your Cloud PC idle without any interaction for 15 minutes, the session will automatically disconnect.

2. Session Timeout:

   - Even if the session is active, without any user interaction for 15 minutes, the session will timeout.

Adjusting Timeout Settings

To prevent frequent disconnects, you can adjust the timeout settings through Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune). Here’s how:

1. Log into Microsoft Endpoint Manager:

2. Navigate to Configuration Profiles:

   Go to Devices > Configuration profiles

3. Create a New Profile:

   - Click on Create profile

   - Choose Windows 10 and later as the platform.

   - Select settings catalog 

4. Configure Timeout Settings:

   - In the settings picker, browse to Administrative templates > Windows Components> Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Session Time Limits

   - Configure the following settings: Toggle to Enable the Set time limit for active but idle Remote Desktop Services sessions option.

     - Set the Idle session limit (Device) to your desired duration.

     - Select next

5. Assign the Profile:

   - Assign this profile to the group of users or devices using Windows 365 Cloud PCs.

   - Ensure the profile is applied to all relevant users.

6. Review and Create:

   - Review the settings and click Create.

   - The profile will be pushed to the assigned devices and users, adjusting the timeout settings accordingly.

To avoid disconnects due to inactivity, consider these practices:

1. Regular Interaction:

   - Make sure to interact with your Cloud PC regularly. Even minimal interactions like moving the mouse can prevent idle timeouts.

2. Keep Applications Running:

   - Some applications can simulate activity. For instance, running a presentation or a video can help keep the session active.

By increasing the idle and session timeout durations, and ensuring regular interaction with the Cloud PC, you can significantly reduce the frequency of disconnects and maintain a seamless working experience.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Windows 365 Cloud PC remains active and responsive, minimizing interruptions and maximizing productivity.

Reference: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-in/windows-365/enterprise/frontline-cloud-pc-session-time-limits

Update: This might also be caused because of screensaver settings which I will be testing shortly.