Premium versions allowed the creation of "stations" from virtual machines, which helped run older software that wasn't originally designed for multi-user environments.
Similar to the old "SteadyState" tool, this feature discards any changes made during a user session upon reboot, ensuring a clean system every time.
WMS 2012 was the last version released as a standalone independent SKU. Starting with Windows Server 2016 , MultiPoint became a specific role (MultiPoint Services) that can be enabled within the standard OS. Key Features and Benefits windows multipoint server 2012 2021
This phase lasted until October 10, 2023 , during which Microsoft provided only critical security updates rather than new features.
Users interacting with WMS 2012 received a desktop interface based on Windows 8, including access to the Windows Store. Modern Alternatives and Upgrades Premium versions allowed the creation of "stations" from
WMS 2012 was highly valued for its ability to lower hardware and energy costs by up to 66% compared to buying individual PCs.
Users can upgrade to Windows Server 2019 or 2022 and enable the MultiPoint Services role to keep the same shared-desktop functionality. Starting with Windows Server 2016 , MultiPoint became
While official support ended in 2023, organizations that cannot yet migrate can purchase ESUs through the Azure Arc program to receive critical patches until October 13, 2026 . Windows MultiPoint Server - Википедия
For organizations looking to move away from the aging WMS 2012 infrastructure, several modern paths exist:
Windows MultiPoint Server 2012 (WMS 2012) is a specialized operating system designed for "multiseat" computing, allowing multiple users to share a single physical computer simultaneously. As of , the product is in its final lifecycle stages. While it was a cornerstone for educational and small business environments throughout the 2010s, its role in 2021 and beyond has shifted from a standalone product to an integrated server feature. The Status of WMS 2012 in 2021