WINS removal: Moving forward with modern name resolution

Originally posted by Microsoft Nov 24, 2025 Uncategorized 0 Comments

If you manage Windows Servers, plan for removal of Windows Internet Name Service (WINS). WINS was officially deprecated since Windows Server 2022 and will be removed from all Windows Server releases following Windows Server 2025. Standard support will continue through the lifecycle of Windows Server 2025, until November 2034. We encourage you to migrate to modern Domain Name System (DNS)-based name resolution solutions before then. 

 
When will this happen: 
  • WINS deprecation was announced in Windows Server 2022. Deprecation means the feature remains supported and maintained, but there is no further active development or new functionality planned. 
  • November 2034 is the end of the lifecycle for Windows Server 2025, which also marks the end of support for WINS. 
 
How this will affect your organization: 
Once removal takes effect, the following components will no longer be part of Windows Server: 
  • WINS Server role and associated binaries 
  • WINS Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-in 
  • WINS automation APIs and related management interfaces 
Please prepare, evaluate, and migrate to modern Domain Name System (DNS)-based name resolution solutions. 
 
What you need to do to prepare: 
Take proactive steps now to ensure a smooth migration: 
Consult additional resources for compete details and guidance. 
 
Additional information: 

  • Audit dependencies: Inventory applications and services that rely on NetBIOS name resolution to understand impact. 
  • Migrate to DNS: Implement conditional forwarders, split-brain DNS, or search suffix lists to replace WINS functionality with scalable, modern DNS solutions. 
  • Update applications: Modernize or retire legacy applications that depend on WINS to avoid future compatibility issues. 
  • Avoid temporary workarounds: Solutions like static host files do not scale and are not sustainable for long-term environments. 

Message ID: MC1188937

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Joao Ferreira

I've been working with Microsoft Technologies over the last ten years, mainly focused on creating collaboration and productivity solutions that drive the adoption of Microsoft Modern Workplace.

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