Azure Lab Services end of life: June 28, 2027
Microsoft retires Azure Lab Services on June 28, 2027. Colleges, training teams and bootcamps that run class labs on it need a new home for those labs before then.
Key dates
| Date | What happens | How sure |
|---|---|---|
| July 15, 2024 | New customers can no longer sign up for Azure Lab Services | Exact date |
| June 28, 2027 | Azure Lab Services retires | Exact date |
Who is affected
Anyone with Azure Lab Services lab accounts, lab plans or labs. Microsoft says the retirement covers both lab accounts and lab plans. Subscriptions that actively used the service between July 2023 and July 2024 count as existing customers and can still create a lab plan. New lab accounts cannot be created.
What happens at end of life
After June 28, 2027 Azure Lab Services is not supported and you lose access to your lab accounts, lab plans and labs. You keep access to your Azure compute gallery and any images saved there. Until the date, existing labs keep running and Microsoft keeps fixing blocking bugs and security issues.
Migration options
Azure Virtual Desktop
Microsoft's option for full desktop delivery with browser access and multi-session support. Microsoft recommends Nerdio Manager for Enterprise on top of it for Windows lab scenarios.
Windows 365 Cloud PC
A hosted Windows desktop with subscription pricing, managed with Intune.
Partner lab platforms (Apporto, CloudLabs by Spektra Systems, Skillable)
Education-focused platforms hosted on Azure. Microsoft lists these as the closest match to Azure Lab Services, with learning management system integration.
Lab plans as a stopgap
Microsoft suggests moving lab accounts to lab plans while you plan the longer move, if you do not need advanced networking.
Cost note
Azure Lab Services includes storage at no extra charge. Microsoft says other options price differently, and dedicated machines with persistent storage may cost more elsewhere. Your Azure core limits do not transfer, so request capacity for the new service early.
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Common questions
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Sources
Last verified 2026-11-02. Vendors change dates, so confirm with the source before you commit to a plan.
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