Microsoft and Ericsson bring enterprise-grade 5G laptop management to Windows 11

Stockholm, February 17, 2026 – Ericsson and Microsoft are collaborating to integrate advanced 5G capabilities directly into Windows 11, aiming to simplify connectivity for businesses and their mobile workforces. This development promises more secure, policy-driven laptop connectivity and streamlined IT management of mobile PC fleets.

Enhanced Connectivity Through AI and Automation

The joint solution combines Microsoft Intune device management with Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect – formerly known as Ericsson Enterprise Virtual Cellular Network (EVCN). This platform utilizes AI and cloud analytics to continuously monitor network quality and automatically adjust connectivity for optimal performance and security. The integration of AI-based 5G management into Windows 11 will allow IT teams to automate device connections, seamlessly switch between communications service providers (CSPs) and enforce company policies.

Did You Know? Successful multi-market pilots preceded today’s announcement, demonstrating the viability of this integrated solution.

Through this combined approach, IT departments can automatically implement secure connectivity profiles and enterprise policies across all 5G-connected devices. This minimizes manual setup and ensures consistent user experiences, regardless of location. The new capabilities are expected to reduce IT overhead and provide a secure pathway for businesses to leverage modern mobility.

Expanding Availability and Future Innovations

Microsoft and Ericsson are collaborating with seven leading CSPs for early launch programmes, with broad availability expected in the second quarter of 2026. The companies will showcase future capabilities at MWC Barcelona 2026, including remote network policy setting, automatic eSIM switching, and AI-driven connectivity optimization on Surface 5G laptops.

Expert Insight: The integration of 5G management directly into the operating system represents a significant step towards simplifying the complexities of cellular connectivity for enterprises, potentially accelerating the adoption of always-connected devices.

Currently, the joint solution is available in the United States with T-Mobile, Sweden with Telenor, Singapore with Singtel, and Japan with SoftBank Corp. Further launches are planned throughout 2026 in Spain with MasOrange, Germany with O2 Telefónica Germany, and Finland with Elisa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect?

Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect is an AI- and cloud-analytics-powered platform that continuously monitors network quality and automatically adjusts connectivity for best performance and security. It was formerly known as Ericsson Enterprise Virtual Cellular Network (EVCN).

What is the role of Microsoft Intune in this solution?

Microsoft Intune provides the device management capabilities, allowing IT teams to automatically enforce secure connectivity profiles and enterprise policies across 5G-connected devices.

When will this solution be broadly available?

Broad availability is expected from the second quarter of 2026, following early launch programmes with seven leading CSPs.

As businesses increasingly rely on mobile workforces, how might this integration of 5G and Windows 11 reshape the future of enterprise IT infrastructure?