We’re looking at enabling Windows Shared PC mode via Hexnode for a few systems that are used by multiple people every day. Has anyone used this before? Is it actually useful?
Can Windows Shared PC mode help on PCs used by multiple people?Solved
Replies (7)
Yes, I have. We’ve been using it on a few shared PCs for a while, and it’s been working well for us.
Hi all!
Yes, Windows’ Shared PC mode is quite useful for shared environments. It is a Microsoft feature, designed for devices that don’t belong to a single person, such as lab PCs, classroom systems, reception desks, or shift-based workstations.
Once enabled, Windows manages user profiles, and clears out old or inactive accounts, so they don’t pile up on the device.
In Hexnode, Windows Shared PC mode can be implemented using the Deploy Custom Configuration policy, allowing the configuration to be applied and managed directly at the OS level.
Best Regards,
Isabel Lora
Hexnode UEM
That profile cleanup part is a big win for us. We previously experienced issues where shared PCs would slow down over time because dozens of user profiles were stored locally. Shared PC mode keeps things clean without needing manual intervention.
How does login work in this case? Is it only guest access?
There’s flexibility here, @jennifer . You can allow guest sign-ins, domain or Azure AD sign-ins, or even both. Guest users get temporary profiles that are removed after sign-out, which works well if you don’t want any data left behind.
Best Regards,
Isabel Lora
Hexnode UEM
We’re using it in a training room setup. Users log in, do their work, and log out. The system is fresh for the next person, with no leftover files or privacy concerns.
Exactly, @_janet . Just keep in mind that this isn’t the same as kiosk mode. Shared PC mode focuses on handling multiple users efficiently, while kiosk mode is more about locking the device down to specific apps or workflows.
Best Regards,
Isabel Lora
Hexnode UEM