More Info

Welcome to the Software Center

From here you can install, update, or uninstall available applications. You can also view any Windows Updates that are available.

Applications

This tab displays available applications. You can click on an application and then click Install. If you need to remove an application, click it and then click Uninstall. (Note that sometimes Software Center will claim the application has failed to uninstall. Usually clicking Retry will resolve the issue.)

How to install applications

For this example, we will install Notepad++.

1. Click Applications in the sidebar.

2. If you can't find the software you're looking for, try using the Filter selection to change the category. In this case, we will choose the Utilities category.

3. Click on the application icon. In this case, we click on Notepad++.

4. Click Install.

Other tabs

Description of other tabs

Updates

Available updates will be shown on this tab.

Installation Status

Click this tab to check on installed applications. You can also uninstall applications from this tab.

Open a Ticket

You can open a ticket with the OMRF IT Helpdesk from this tab.

Update Timelines

Click this tab to see when the next Windows Updates are scheduled for this computer.

FAQs

What is the new system?

OMRF IT is setting up a new system to manage Windows devices throughout the Foundation. This new system will make it easier for you and IT to manage Windows devices.
It is a system that is called Microsoft Endpoint Management (MEM) Configuration Manager, but the part you will notice is an application called Software Center.

What does the system do?

The first use for the system will be to manage device encryption. This will replace the TrendMicro BitLocker management currently on your device.
Soon Configuration Manager will keep Windows Updates current. It will help block Windows updates when they are deemed incompatible with other applications. It will allow users to easily install and update software. All this without needing IT to help with administrative access privileges.

What changes will I notice on my computer?

You will see the Software Center in the Start Menu.
You will see notifications in the lower-right corner of the screen when Windows updates are available.
You may also receive notifications when other software is available for you to install.

What about HORNET-restricted devices on the science network?

We do not have plans to deploy this to Windows devices on the HORNET network.

What is the Software Center application?

The Software Center will display any software that is available for you to install, as well as any updates that are available. You will be able to find it in the Start menu. Standard user accounts will be able to install these applications without requiring administrative rights.
From the Software Center, you will also be able to access information about Configuration Manager as well as create tickets for the IT Support Helpdesk.

What do I need to do?

Currently, you don't need to do anything. The first steps will be for IT to get the Software Center pushed to all non-HORNET Windows devices. Then, IT will transition management of BitLocker encryption from TrendMicro to MEM Configuration Manager.
In the future, Windows Updates will be managed through the Software Center. When prompted, install any Windows Updates at your earliest convenience. These updates will install automatically after a specified number of days (to be determined) and reboot if necessary (you will receive reminders before this occurs). If you encounter any issues, please let IT Support know.

What should I do If I experience problems?

You should contact IT Support by using the online portal: https://jira.lan.omrf.org/servicedesk/customer/portals (or by clicking the Open a Ticket tab to the left)
You can send email to IT Support at ITSupport@omrf.org
You can call IT Support at ext. 35193.