Solution offers affordable computing for classrooms & helps enrich learning experience for students

Use of MultiPoint Server can save schools up to 66% on costs of computer technology

Dubai, UAE: May 4, 2011 - Microsoft Gulf launched its latest education solution  in the region - Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 at the Gulf Educational Supplies and Solutions (GESS) exhibition in Dubai today. The new solution enables schools to provide computer access to students from just one 'host' PC, with up to 20 terminals being run off the machine installed with Windows MultiPoint Server.

The set up can help educational institutions use their budget more effectively in addition to empowering teachers with technology to enrich the learning experience for students. Windows MultiPoint Server can enable schools to save 66% in costs by lowering costs of hardware, energy and maintenance according to a commissioned study by Forrester Consulting called The Total Economic Impact of Microsoft Windows MultiPoint Server 2011.

Speaking at GESS, Azza Ahmed Ameen Ashour, Education Solutions Manager, Microsoft Gulf, said: "Teaching equipment can be expensive, but educators everywhere - including the across the region - want the same thing: technology tools that help them and their students achieve more. With restricted budgets schools can't always afford one PC per student which diminishes the effectiveness as an educational tool, so our new solution is ideal in solving this problem."

 "GESS is the perfect platform for us to demonstrate how Microsoft enables teachers to give the best experience possible to their students," he added. "Windows MultiPoint Server is our newest product which aids educators and it earns an A+ in classroom economics for delivering affordable computing to schools, helping address the debate of whether schools should cut costs, or invest in more technology."

Herve Dechoux, Deputy Head and CIO, The School of Research Science said: "Windows Multipoint achieves what no other solution on the market can offer: ease of use, reliability, lower acquisition and operating costs, and above all, brings complete flexibility and spontaneity in the classroom. Having used Microsoft MultiPoint for nearly a year, I can say that it has added a brand new dimension in lessons that teachers and pupils rave about."

The software enables a single PC to use its extra capacity to run several stations - MultiPoint Server equipped computer can run up to 20 terminals for students to use, depending on configuration. Split screen operation can also be used to make a single screen into two terminals, increasing the number of users from one PC.

Teachers can control many facets of the network, and are able to personalize the Windows 7 experience for individual students. They can also use the Management Console to orchestrate activities across the classroom including sharing any specific desktop across all stations, and allowing only certain websites in a 'allowed list' for web access.

Shared resource computing created by using Windows MultiPoint Server has lower initial hardware costs, helping schools save money, in addition to reduced on-going operational costs. These factors contribute to a more affordable way for institutions to embrace technology in the classroom.

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About Microsoft Gulf
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:'MSFT') is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Gulf opened its Dubai-based headquarters in 1991. Microsoft Gulf today oversees Microsoft activities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Microsoft Corporation's address on the World Wide Web is: www.microsoft.com and Microsoft's Gulf Web site is: www.microsoft.com/gulf

This material is for informational purposes only. Microsoft Corp. disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to use of the material for other purposes. Microsoft Corp. shall not, at any time, be liable for any special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other action arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of the material. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting any kind of warranty.

For further information, please contact:
Microsoft contact                                                                                          
Rama Alsayegh                                                                                   
Tel: +9714 391 7745                                                              
Email: a-raalsa@microsoft.com   
 
For more information, please contact:
Iman Ahmed / Tara basrur
ASDA'A Burson-Marsteller                                                
Tel: 050 2058021 / 050 4692774
Fax: (+971 4) 334 4556 
E-mail: i.ahmed@asdaa.com / t.basrur@asdaa.com 

© Press Release 2011