KioWare

What KioWare is

KioWare is kiosk and device lockdown software for managing shared or unattended devices and limiting users to approved websites or applications. It is intended for kiosks, tablets, PCs, and other shared-use equipment, including public-facing and internal stations. Security options include operating-system lockdown, startup on boot, web access controls, and single-app mode. KioWare Kiosk Management can group kiosks, report device health, configure devices remotely, push content, and track usage and uptime. KioCloud is hosted by KioWare; KioWare Server is hosted by the customer. Listed integrations include barcode scanners, magstripe readers, accessibility tools, and KioCall video conferencing, with add-ins and an API for customization. Licenses are annual subscriptions tied to individual devices. A 14-day trial includes Starter, Essential, and Enterprise features without requiring a credit card. No plan prices are listed. KioWare supports Windows, Android, and Linux. Its Windows version excludes ARM-based CPUs and Windows CE, Windows RT, Windows IoT Core, and Windows Mobile Enterprise. KioWare says it was founded in 2001 and is based in York, Pennsylvania.

Who it suits

KioWare suits organizations managing public-access or internal self-service kiosks, including those in government, healthcare, retail, and education. It can also suit teams that need remote kiosk management across shared devices.

Limits

The free trial lasts 14 days; there is no free plan. Kiosk Management requires Microsoft SQL Server 2016 or later, or PostgreSQL 11 or later. Windows excludes ARM-based CPUs and Windows CE, Windows RT, Windows IoT Core, and Windows Mobile Enterprise.

Getting started

1. Open the KioWare website and start the 14-day trial; no credit card is required.
2. Select a supported Windows, Android, or Linux device for the kiosk deployment.
3. Choose Starter, Essential, or Enterprise features to evaluate during the trial.
4. Choose KioCloud for vendor-hosted management or KioWare Server for customer-hosted management.
5. For Kiosk Management, provide Microsoft SQL Server 2016 or later, or PostgreSQL 11 or later.

Verdict

KioWare combines device lockdown with remote management for shared-use stations, with hosted and customer-hosted options. Check Windows compatibility and database requirements before choosing it.