Navigating software installations at the University of Iowa just got easier. Uiowa Self Service provides a centralized hub for students, faculty, and staff to access and install a wide range of university-approved software directly onto their computers. This streamlined approach eliminates the need for manual software requests and IT intervention for many common applications, empowering you to get the tools you need, when you need them. Whether you’re using a Windows or macOS device, UIowa offers dedicated self-service portals designed to simplify the software deployment process. Let’s explore the self-service options available to you.
Windows Software Self Service Options
For users on University of Iowa managed Windows computers, several self-service portals are available, each catering to different software deployment needs.
AppsAnywhere Software Portal
The AppsAnywhere Software Portal is a powerful tool specifically designed for College of Engineering managed systems. This portal grants access to a curated selection of engineering-related software packages, allowing for on-demand installation.
How to Use AppsAnywhere:
- Access the Portal: Open your web browser and navigate to the AppsAnywhere Software portal.
- HawkID Login: Sign in securely using your HawkID and password. Please note that AppsAnywhere access is currently restricted to College of Engineering systems and requires your HawkID to be added to a specific user group.
- Allow Communication: Your system may prompt you to ALLOW communication with the AppsAnywhere application. Click “ALLOW” to proceed.
This is a screenshot of the AppsAnywhere login prompt, showing the HawkID and password fields, emphasizing the secure access to the software portal.
- Open AppsAnywhere Launcher: Once validation is complete, a pop-up window will appear asking you to open the AppsAnywhere Launcher. Click “Open AppsAnywhere Launcher.” For quicker future access, you can optionally check the “Always allow…” checkbox.
- Select and Install Software: Browse the available applications within the AppsAnywhere portal. Click on the application you wish to install. The software will be downloaded and installed on your computer and will remain available until you choose to remove it.
A view of the AppsAnywhere main page, showcasing the user-friendly interface where users can easily browse and select from a range of available software applications for installation.
Altiris Software Portal
The Altiris Software Portal provides another self-service software installation option for Engineering Computer Services managed Windows systems. It offers a streamlined interface to deploy pre-packaged software to your computer.
Accessing Software via Altiris Software Portal:
- Open Software Portal: Locate the Altiris Agent icon in your system tray (bottom right corner of your screen). It’s a yellow circle with a green padlock. Right-click on the icon and select “Software Portal.” This portal is exclusively available on Engineering Computer Services managed Windows computers.
- HawkID Authentication: Log in to the Altiris Software Portal using your HawkID and password when prompted.
Screenshot of the Altiris Software Portal login screen, prompting users to enter their HawkID and password for secure access to install university software.
- Choose Software to Install: Once logged in, you will be presented with a catalog of software available for installation. Browse the list and select the software you need.
The main interface of the Altiris Software Portal is displayed, illustrating how users can navigate and choose from the listed software applications to initiate the installation process.
Microsoft Endpoint Management Software Center (SCCM)
For some University of Iowa managed Windows devices, software installation may also be facilitated through the Microsoft Endpoint Management Software Center, formerly known as SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager). While specific instructions may vary slightly depending on your system configuration, Software Center generally provides a catalog of approved applications for self-installation. Consult your department’s IT support or the University IT help desk for guidance if you are unsure whether Software Center is available on your system or require assistance using it.
Macintosh Software Self Service Options
Mac users at the University of Iowa also benefit from a dedicated self-service application called “Self Service,” specifically designed for macOS.
Self Service (Mac)
The “Self Service” application, bearing the University of Iowa branding, is pre-installed on all University-owned Macintosh computers. It acts as your central point for installing, setting up, and even reinstalling approved software on your Mac.
Utilizing Mac Self Service:
- Locate Self Service: Open the “Applications” folder on your Mac. Find and click the “Self Service” application icon to launch it.
- HawkID Login: Upon opening Self Service, you will be prompted to log in using your HawkID and password.
A screenshot of the Self Service login window on macOS, where users are required to enter their HawkID and password to access the software installation options for their Mac.
- Install Your Applications: Once logged in, browse the list of available applications within the Self Service interface. Click on the desired application and choose to “Install,” “Setup,” or “Reinstall” as needed.
Conclusion
UIowa Self Service options empower you to take control of your software needs, providing convenient access to essential applications for your studies, research, or work at the University of Iowa. By utilizing AppsAnywhere, Altiris Software Portal, Microsoft Endpoint Management Software Center, or the Mac Self Service application, you can efficiently install the software you require, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. For any questions or further assistance, please reach out to the University of Iowa IT Help Desk.
