Power Automate Desktop (PAD) has become a cornerstone of modern Robotic Process Automation (RPA), but its licensing model often confuses even seasoned IT professionals. As of 2026, Microsoft has streamlined its offerings into two primary categories: and paid enterprise-grade automation . 1. The Free Version: Personal Desktop Automation
Power Automate Desktop flows are often triggered from the Cloud (a "Cloud Flow" initiates a "Desktop Flow"). When a Cloud Flow (running in Azure) needs to talk to a Desktop Flow (running on a local PC), it requires a bridge. power automate desktop licensing
This report is structured for IT managers, finance departments, and compliance officers. Power Automate Desktop (PAD) has become a cornerstone
Note: Actual pricing varies by Volume Licensing agreement (EA, CSP). Contact your reseller. The Free Version: Personal Desktop Automation Power Automate
Disclaimer: Microsoft licensing changes frequently. While the "inclusion" in M365 E3/E5 is the current standard, specific government (GCC), educational, and non-profit SKUs may have different entitlements. Always verify specific SKU details via the Microsoft licensing calculator or a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP).