Maintaining up-to-date software is crucial for optimal performance, security, and access to the latest features on TCU-owned computers. Texas Christian University provides a range of software to its faculty, staff, and departments, and ensuring these applications are current is a key aspect of IT support. This guide outlines how TCU manages software updates and how you can keep your TCU-owned devices running smoothly.
Understanding TCU’s Standard Software Image and Updates
TCU utilizes a standard software image for all university-owned computers. This image includes essential applications for productivity and security. For Windows 11 devices, the standard image typically features:
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Firefox
- Crowdstrike (for virus protection and device security)
- 7-Zip
- WinSCP (FTP client)
- Software Center (for accessing and installing TCU-provided software)
For macOS 14 (Sonoma) devices, the standard image includes:
- Preview
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Web Browsers: Safari, Google Chrome, and Firefox
- Crowdstrike (for virus protection and device security)
- Fetch (FTP client)
- Jamf Pro (system management tool)
- Self Service (for accessing and installing TCU-provided software)
These standard software packages are regularly updated by TCU IT to ensure security patches are applied and the software remains compatible and efficient. These updates are often deployed automatically or made available through the Software Center (Windows) or Self Service (Mac) portals.
Campus-Licensed Software and Staying Current
Beyond the standard image, TCU provides access to a wide array of campus-licensed software, including Adobe Creative Cloud, SPSS, and many others. These licenses are generally for TCU-owned computers only. Keeping these applications updated is essential for accessing the latest features and maintaining compatibility.
TCU IT manages updates for many of these site-licensed applications. In most cases, you can initiate updates or install the latest versions through the Software Center (Windows) or Self Service (Mac) applications found on your TCU-owned computer. It is recommended to regularly check these portals for available updates to your licensed software.
Departments may also request the addition of specific software to their lab computers. In these instances, the department is often responsible for the costs associated with the software, including ongoing maintenance and updates. However, TCU IT often assists in the deployment and management of these updates.
Types of Software Updates Managed by TCU IT
TCU IT plays a crucial role in managing various types of software updates to ensure a secure and efficient computing environment:
- Operating System Updates: Updates to Windows 11 and macOS 14 are critical for security and stability. TCU IT manages these updates to ensure devices are protected against vulnerabilities.
- Application Updates: Updates for standard software like Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and web browsers are regularly deployed to patch security flaws and improve performance.
- Security Patches: Crowdstrike, the university’s virus protection software, receives frequent updates to protect against the latest threats. These updates are often automatic and essential for maintaining device security.
- Campus-Licensed Software Updates: TCU IT facilitates updates for many campus-licensed applications through the Software Center and Self Service portals, making it easy for users to keep their software current.
Accessing Software Updates via Software Center and Self Service
The Software Center (Windows) and Self Service (Mac) are your primary tools for managing software and updates on TCU-owned computers. These portals allow you to:
- Install new TCU-provided software.
- Update existing applications.
- Access self-service IT resources.
Regularly checking these applications for updates is a proactive step in maintaining your software and ensuring you have the latest versions.
Purchasing and Updating Software Outside of Standard TCU Provisions
For software not covered under standard TCU provisions, departments or individuals may need to purchase licenses. All technology-related purchases for TCU-owned computers must go through the IT Purchasing department. They can provide guidance on software acquisition and licensing.
While TCU provides robust support for software updates on TCU-owned devices, it’s important to remember that support for personal devices is limited. For personal purchases of software for remote work, TCU employees can explore options through VarsityBuys. However, software installed on personal devices is the responsibility of the individual user to update and maintain.
Seeking Assistance with Software Updates
If you encounter any issues with software updates on your TCU-owned computer, or have questions about the update process, TCU IT is available to assist. You can access support through the IT service desk. For purchasing inquiries or questions about software licensing, the IT Purchasing department is your point of contact.
Keeping your Tcu Software Updated is a shared responsibility. By understanding TCU’s software management systems and proactively checking for updates, you contribute to a secure and efficient computing environment for yourself and the entire university community.
