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Microsoft has warned IT teams that Windows Server 2025 will be the last server release to include Windows Internet Name Service (WINS). The company first deprecated WINS with Windows Server 2022, and now it’s making clear that future Windows Server editions will drop the legacy service altogether — while continuing support through the fixed lifecycle window.
Why WINS is being retired — and what it means
Introduced in 1994 with Windows NT 3.5, WINS provided a NetBIOS name resolution service for early Windows networks. Over the decades its usage shrank as modern networks standardized on DNS. Microsoft cites low usage, security concerns and the availability of better alternatives when retiring legacy components — WINS included.
Windows Server 2025 will still carry WINS in a deprecated, maintenance-only state. No new features are planned. According to Microsoft’s guidance, WINS will remain supported through November 14, 2034, which aligns with the end of extended support for Windows Server 2025 under the fixed lifecycle policy. After that, WINS won’t be included in future Windows Server releases.
What will disappear when WINS is removed?
- WINS Server role and associated binaries
- WINS Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-in
- WINS automation APIs and related management interfaces
Plan your migration — Microsoft’s practical advice
Microsoft recommends giving organizations roughly a decade to migrate away from WINS, but that doesn’t mean you should wait. Here’s a practical roadmap IT teams can follow now.
- Audit dependencies: Inventory servers, applications, printers and devices that still rely on NetBIOS/WINS name resolution.
- Modernize or retire legacy apps: Update or replace applications that have hard dependencies on WINS instead of DNS.
- Avoid temporary hacks: Don’t rely on short-term workarounds that create future operational debt.
- Design a scalable DNS solution: Implement DNS best practices — secure zones, DNSSEC where applicable, redundant resolvers, and integration with DHCP and AD.
- Test gradually: Use lab and pilot environments to validate name resolution, group policies and application behavior before full cutover.
- Engage third-party vendors: Check network gear and legacy systems for DNS support and firmware updates.
Why switch to DNS now?
DNS is the modern standard: it’s broadly supported by current software, offers better security controls, scales more naturally, and fits cloud-native and hybrid architectures. Moving to DNS reduces long-term risk and keeps your infrastructure compatible with newer Microsoft and third-party tools.
Imagine discovering a critical business app that suddenly loses name resolution after a Windows Server upgrade — proactive migration avoids that risk. Start with an inventory, map dependencies, and schedule phased migrations so operations remain smooth.
Final notes for IT admins
Microsoft’s announcement is effectively a long runway: Windows Server 2025 is the last edition to include WINS, and support continues until November 14, 2034. Use this time to audit, modernize, and migrate, but don’t postpone planning. A measured, tested transition to DNS will reduce future disruption and improve network security and compatibility.
Source: neowin
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