We manage Windows devices that are used by many different users every day—training labs, call centers, and shared office systems. Over time, these devices slow down, run out of storage, and sometimes retain data from previous users.
Instead of going deep into configuration details, can someone explain why Windows Shared PC mode is useful and when it actually makes sense to use it with Hexnode?
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@timo-liam , at a high level, Windows Shared PC mode is useful because it keeps shared devices clean, fast, and ready for the next user—automatically.
It’s designed for environments where:
Devices are used by many users
Sessions are temporary or short-lived
Performance and privacy are equally important
Rather than treating shared devices like personal laptops, Shared PC mode makes Windows behave like a managed workstation.
What practical benefits does this give us in daily operations?
In day-to-day use, Shared PC mode solves several common problems in shared environments:
Prevents profile buildup
User accounts don’t accumulate endlessly, so devices don’t degrade over time.
Protects user privacy
Each session is isolated. Personal data doesn’t linger on the device after use.
Maintains consistent performance
Devices stay responsive even after heavy usage, reducing the need for reimaging or manual cleanup.
Reduces admin effort
Less time spent monitoring disk space, deleting old accounts, or resetting machines.
The end result is a device that’s always in a known, usable state.
Is this mainly for kiosks, or does it apply to normal shared PCs too?
It’s definitely not limited to kiosks. Shared PC mode is useful anywhere devices are shared regularly, such as:
Call centers that need fast, predictable logins
Healthcare environments where data privacy is critical
Training and exam labs that need a clean system for every batch
Hot-desking setups in corporate offices
Instead of configuring devices one by one, Hexnode lets administrators:
Apply shared-use behavior consistently across all selected devices
Combine Shared PC mode with security restrictions and app deployment
Ensure every shared device follows the same rules, without manual intervention
So while Windows provides the shared-device capability, Hexnode ensures it’s deployed, enforced, and maintained across the fleet.
So, the main idea is keeping devices ready for whoever uses them next?
Exactly.
Shared PC mode shifts the focus from managing users to maintaining device readiness.
For high-traffic environments, that approach significantly improves reliability, security, and user experience.
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