Windows 11 & MIDI 2.0
Microsoft, in conjunction with The MIDI Association and AMEI in Japan, has been working on seamless integration of Windows 11 computers and the MIDI 2.0 protocol. In this guide, we will discuss what MIDI 2.0 is and how the latest Windows updates improve the functionality of your MIDI devices.
What Is MIDI 2.0?
MIDI 2.0 is the new MIDI protocol used by many MIDI devices today. It’s not a replacement but rather an upgraded extension of MIDI 1.0. MIDI 2.0 brings many improvements such as bidirectional communication, higher resolution, and backward compatibility, meaning MPE and polyphonic aftertouch are natively built in.
Introduction to MIDI 2.0
Windows 11 & MIDI 2.0
Microsoft added MIDI 2.0 support as of Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1 via Windows MIDI Services. This update adds many features and changes that make working with both MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0 devices a breeze.
Here are some key components of the MIDI 2.0 update.
Multiclient Support
Multiclient support is an important addition to Windows 11. Multiclient support means using the same MIDI port or device across multiple applications.
For example, if your DAW is running but you need to test the MIDI device in another piece of software (such as a standalone MIDI application), then you don’t need to close your DAW!
This also means that MIDI devices are now class compliant in most cases. Manufacturer drivers are generally not needed (or recommended) any longer, but you may still need to download manufacturer-specific control software from their support download page. Check the manufacturer’s product page to learn about its control software. In one case, Korg has specifically requested that its customers no longer use the Korg USB drivers on Windows and has provided instructions for removing them to ensure their devices work under the new Windows MIDI Services.
DAW Compatibility
MIDI 2.0 has built-in functionality in most major DAWs on Windows 11. This means no additional scripts or settings need to be enabled. Control profiles have also been created that detect your external controller and automatically assign the correct controls.
Learn more about the control profiles in the video below!
DAW Control Profiles Update at NAMM 2026
Customize MIDI Endpoints
MIDI endpoints and ports always had generic names in Windows. In the Windows MIDI Services update, however, you have full control over the naming and even imagery(!) of any MIDI device connected to your computer, which makes it easier to identify your MIDI devices.
You can rename MIDI port names while preserving the classic MIDI names for compatibility in your DAW, so no additional setup and configuration is required. This is most useful if you have many files that contain references to MIDI port names.
Learn more about MIDI Console Overview here: MIDI Console Overview – Windows MIDI Services
MIDI Ports vs. MIDI Endpoints
You may hear the terms “MIDI port” and “MIDI endpoint” used.
In MIDI 1.0 (specifically USB MIDI), a port is the virtual cable that communicates with the MIDI device. The cables are assigned specific numbers and are mapped to MIDI Input (Source) and MIDI Output (Destination) ports, which, in the end, are all handled by the device.
In MIDI 2.0, the equivalent of a virtual cable address is included in the MIDI data, which is known as a “group.” Since you’re working with the entire MIDI stream, it’s called an “endpoint” and not a “port.” The endpoint can have up to 16 input and 16 output groups, each of which would have been a port in the MIDI 1.0 language.
MIDI Loopback Functionality
PC users have had to rely on third-party applications for loopback functionality. Windows now has built-in MIDI loopback support, so you can create custom loopback endpoints with no external drivers needed. Not only does it have app-to-app support, but it also supports Web MIDI.
- To create a custom MIDI loopback endpoint, click the Loopback Endpoints icon on the left side of the window then click “Create New Loopback Endpoint Pair.”
Windows MIDI Services Loopback Endpoints and fixes
MIDI 2.0 Translation
Newer MIDI keyboards and workstations such as the Yamaha Montage M and Roland A-88 support MIDI 2.0. With this update, you can now use a MIDI 2.0 keyboard in both MIDI 1.0- and MIDI 2.0-aware applications with full MIDI 2.0 functionality and features, including faster data transfer and new MIDI message types. MIDI 1.0 apps can also recognize downscaled MIDI 2.0 values.
- Check the manufacturer’s product support page for more information on MIDI 2.0 functionality, as you may need to enable it in its settings menu.
Multiclient WinMM and MIDI 2.0 in Windows MIDI Services
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