Windows MultiPoint Server 2010 is a special version of the Windows Server operating system that allows multiple users to simultaneously share one computer. Each user station, typically consisting of a monitor, keyboard, and mouse connected to a station hub, provides an independent Windows desktop environment. The station hubs connect to the single host computer through USB or video cables and use the host computer's processing capabilities. MultiPoint Server can be useful for organizations or libraries with computer labs, classrooms, or other collaborative environments where using just one computer for several users can save energy, simplify maintenance, and lower expenses. The number of simultaneously connected stations is limited only by the host computer's hardware capacity. MultiPoint Server includes MultiPoint Manager, which allows the administrative user to monitor and manage MultiPoint Server user stations. The version of MultiPoint Server available through TechSoup Brasil can join an Active Directory domain if needed, providing users with access to network services. Other capabilities include the following:

• The administrative user can use MultiPoint Manager to create accounts for all users, who can access their customized desktop and settings by logging into any station.
• Software programs installed on the host computer can be accessed from any connected station, without separately installing the software for each user. (Note that Microsoft Office and other Microsoft programs available through Volume Licensing require a separate license for each user station in a MultiPoint Server environment. Other software manufacturers may have their own licensing requirements for shared computing environments.)
• Public Documents folders allow users to share information and collaborate on projects, while users' private folders can be accessed only by the user or the administrator. Licensing: This product includes a MultiPoint Server 2010 server license. Each user station that connects to MultiPoint Server must have two types of client access licenses (CALs): a MultiPoint Server CAL and a Windows Server CAL. These two CALs, licensed per device (a user station), are available as a single donation through TechSoup Brasil (see Related Products below). If the host computer is used as a user station and not just for administration, organizations must acquire both a MultiPoint Server CAL and a Windows Server CAL for it as well. Individual MultiPoint Server device CALs are also available through TechSoup Brasil for users with valid Windows Server CALs. MultiPoint Server user CALs, as opposed to device CALs, are not available through TechSoup Brasil since this kind of licensing would be more costly in a typical MultiPoint Server setup than licensing per device. For example, a setup with 10 user stations would require just 10 device CALs for any number of users. If licensed per user, the same setup would require each user to have a separate license. At the Volume Licensing Service Center, the product key for Windows MultiPoint Server will be listed as Windows Server 2008 R2. 

64-Bit Only: MultiPoint Server 2010 requires a 64-bit processor with at least two cores. See System Requirements below for more information. 

Software Assurance: Under the Software Assurance program, you have the right to install any new release of products covered in the agreement during the term of your coverage.