I worked with Windows MultiPoint Server 2010 in an HP MultiSeat setup a little less than a year ago and I was excited to learn today that a new version of the Windows MultiPoint Server would be coming out shortly with new features. Over on the Windows Team Blog, they posted an update that shows some upcoming features correcting many of my previous complaints.
For a quick run down of some of the new features:
- LAN connect with thin clients and split screen control on a single monitor
- Management console allows station control and near real-time view of desktops by the administrator
- Project one station to all others
- Load balance across other MultiPoint Server PCs in the local subnet to get the best performance
- Windows 7 interface
While still being based on Windows Server 2008R2, there have been a lot of changes that will make the Windows MultiPoint Server more user friendly. One of the external changes that assist with that is changing the ‘Academic’ branding of Windows MultiPoint Server to the term ‘Premium’. If you want the ability to join the domain, you’ll have to grab the Premium version. For more info on licensing, read Dean Paron’s blog post on the Windows Small Business Server blog.
Windows MPS 2011 was released to manufacturers today and is expected to be available next month. You can currently download the evaluation from the Microsoft Download Center. All other information you can garner from the Windows Team blog.