Windows Software

Microsoft Windows software is accessible at the institute through CentralWindows (or RemoteWindows) via Citrix XenApp and Desktops. More details here: CentralWindows.

On standard Linux workstations you can start a session by using the menu item or shell command (centralwindows).

On all other systems and worldwide you can start a session via browser

However, if local Windows systems (laboratory equipment) are required for certain reasons, only a small amount of software can be made available locally on these computers for licensing, administration and security reasons.

Please note that you are not allowed to install programs yourself, but can request them via the ticket system.

FAQs

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Software List


Office

  • MS-Office - Office Software Suite: Word, Excel, Power Point - 2021 - latest Microsoft LTSC (long-term company) version
  • Libre Office - formerly Open Office, Office Software Suite: word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, graphic/image creation/editing software, ...
  • PDF XChange Pro - professional PDF viewer/editor
  • Sumatra PDF - PDF reader, for rapid read and print
  • EndNote - professional reference management software package, used to manage bibliographies and references when writing essays and articles
  • Adobe CC - Acobat, Illustrator, Photoshop (only for users with an extra purchased and by us registered license)
  • Mendeley - reference manager

Internet / local net

  • Firefox - Web browser
  • ThunderBird - mail client, for certain users only
  • Putty - SSH client
  • Filezilla - cross-platform FTP application
  • WinSCP - transfer files from/to other servers

Scientific

  • IBM SPSS Statistics 24 - older statistics software, alternatives should be used
  • Publish-or-Perish - Info see here
  • MediTec - only authorized
  • PraaT - doing phonetics by computer
  • Notepad++ - free text editor for Windows
  • MarcEdit - plain text translation utility/metadata edit suites available to librarians - for library only

Tools

  • WinSCP - transfer via SCP, FTP, SFTP, ...
  • KeePassXC - password safe
  • 7zip - archiving (working with ZIP files), encryption
  • WinMerge - compares files

Multimedia

  • Gimp - bitmap graphics, photo/image manipulation program
  • Audacity - audio editor and recorder
  • Scribus - desktop publishing software
  • InkScape - professional vector graphics
  • Irfan View - graphics viewer, slide preview, image editing, conversion, ..., can also display the Corel Clipart images
  • XnView - graphic viewer, slide preview, image editing, conversion, automation of image conversions, ...
  • VLC Media Player
  • DPM-Player - dictation player, for secretariats


Back to FAQ start

I would like to use a program that is not available. What do I have to do?


Please write a ticket.

Our software archive already contains around 10,000 programs, some of which are highly specialized - from neural networks to visualization software for differential equation systems. In the best case, we can make the required program available immediately via our standard Linux systems. If it is not yet known or is only executable for Windows, the program is subjected to some tests. As soon as it has been confirmed, it will be made available. We prefer and recommend alternatives that run on Linux.

Back to FAQ start

Why centralize software via CentralWindows?


  • Enhanced Security: Centralized updates and patches improve protection against malware and unauthorized access.
  • Data Protection: Data is secure in a central server room and inaccessible to unauthorized personnel.
  • Accessibility: Software is usable on any device with a browser, without installation.
  • Remote Access: Secure access from anywhere with 2-factor authentication.
  • License Efficiency: Specialized software with limited licenses becomes widely accessible.
  • Data Safety: Protection against data loss due to power outages, network issues or hardware failure.
  • Mobility: The workstation can be changed easily, as the Windows desktop session including content can simply be moved with it.
  • Maintenance Simplicity: Quick updates and replacement/enhancement of hardware due to centralized systems.
  • Failover Resilience: Virtualization servers provide backup to ensure continuity.
  • Load Balancing: Automatic and manual load distribution for optimal performance.
  • Performance: Server speed benefits all users, regardless of local PC capabilities.
  • Software Versioning: Multiple software versions can be deployed simultaneously during migrations.
  • Efficient Management: The central software deployment allows for flexible software installations and customizations.
  • Support Efficiency: Admins can easily assist users by mirroring their screen sessions (after confirmation by the user).


Back to FAQ start

What are disadvantages of local Windows PCs with locally stored data?


  • Security Risks: Windows system security is user-dependent and can be compromised by user actions like disabling updates or not restarting after updates.
  • Maintenance Challenges: On-site admin presence is often required for maintenance, and user actions like screen locks can hinder this process. Automation is limited by user cooperation.
  • Data Loss Risks: Power outages, software/hardware errors, and user mistakes can lead to data loss and system damage.
  • Unauthorized Access: Systems are vulnerable to unauthorized access via boot CDs and keyloggers when the user is absent.
  • System Recovery: Software crashes and hardware failures can necessitate lengthy recovery times and often require complete system reinstallation.
  • Software Updates: Transitioning to new software versions can be problematic, with potential issues reverting to older versions if problems arise.
  • Operating System Updates: Upgrading to a new operating system is a one-way process without an rollback option.


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This topic: EDV/FuerUser > WebHome > SoftwareWindows
Topic revision: 12 Aug 2024, Korsawe
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