As we trod along, testing the next versions of Windows and Windows Server, it's important to get an understanding about what new features and enhancements will be available. Windows Server 2012 was, in my opinion, a huge functional leap for Microsoft's server product, and it's going to be difficult to match the feature expanse. But, there are some significant improvements planned in the next version of Windows Server, which Microsoft will most likely end up naming "Windows Server 10." In fact, I'll just call it that from here on out to avoid confusion. If Microsoft decides on a different name, we can all adapt.

I've already covered a couple other important pieces and will continue to provide more as I find them in my own testing.

In this article, I want to let you know about some improvements to Remote Desktop Services and a new feature that should make Windows Server 10 a potential platform worthy of migration consideration.

RemoteFX Improvements

Microsoft has been investing resources into improving RemoteFX. RemoteFX debuted in Windows Server 2008 and is the technology capable of providing rich graphics for remote desktop sessions. Windows Server 2012 saw additional improvements to this technology and now in Windows Server 10 more improvements are on tap. IN Windows 10, the RemoteFX graphics implementation has been optimized in the following areas:

MultiPoint Services as an Added Role

MultiPoint Services is an added role for Windows Server 10. Think: Desktop as a Service (DaaS), but for on-premises. DaaS has been rumored for years as a way to deliver each users actual desktop to them no matter where they login, and no matter what computer they use. In essence, with MultiPoint Services, IT can setup a shared computer (or thin terminal) somewhere in the office, and when the user logs on with their credentials, they will see their actual desktop – not a shared desktop, split by local profiles, like in the past.

MultiPoint is not exactly new. A special MultiPoint Server version was available for Windows Server 2012, but required its own, special licensing. The technology is now included as a role in Windows Server 10.

MultiPoint Services was originally developed as a way for educational institutions to take advantage of lower cost terminals and PCs in a shared environment. Examples of uses could be libraries, classrooms, or labs. But, the technology has expanded to SMBs and retail businesses, and is now just a Windows Server role that any organization can take advantage of.