How do I install my own software on my assigned workstation or lab PC's?

You don't.

Students are not allowed to install software packages on any of the CS public workstations as well as on individually assigned workstations in RA & TA offices. There are several reasons for this:

• Interchangibility/compatibility. Students can sit in front of any station in the public labs to do their work. RA's & TA's can change offices and be assured that their new workstation functions as their previous one did.
• Licensing. Most all software—even shareware, has a license agreement and usually a cost. The University must adhere to all licensing arrangements, even on software unknowingly residing on their systems.
• Security. Many software packages, especially those that are free and unlicensed, are not compatible with other software or present a security risk.

What if I need to have additional software installed on my assigned workstation?

All CS workstations have a supported (and more importantly, tested) suite of software installed on them. This software suite has been chosen to fullfill all required CS applications. Ocassionally a faculty member will require a new piece of software for research or instruction. In that case, the faculty member should request that this software be installed, not the student. Requests for additional software installs should state the nature of the problem with currently installed software and from whom the new software is available.

Often the requested software is found to have a functional equivalent already installed on the workstation. Software install requests for new software that is functionally equivalent to existing software, e.g., Word Perfect in addition to Word, are not usually considered, especially if there are costs involved with the additional licensing.

Suggestions for additions to the supported software suite can be made to the Lab staff. Sometimes the software suggested is superior in function to existing software. If the software is found to be compatible with existing software and is cost effective, then it will be scheduled to be included in the next upgrade to the software suite.

Upgrades are usually done on an end of semester basis e.g., December shutdown, summer break.