Software

NTS Self Service (macOS)

Installing software with Iru Self Service                              kandji logo

Customers that have a macOS computer can take advantage of Iru Self Service to download and install selected software titles.

About

Iru Self Service is a component of the Iru Management Suite, which provides an efficient way of managing and installing software on University-owned Apple macOS computers. 

Iru is a comprehensive Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution designed specifically for Mac devices. It offers advanced features for managing and securing your devices, providing better control over updates and configurations. This will help us maintain a high standard of performance and security across all our Mac devices. It offers features and functions that provide the Nanook Technology Services (NTS) with best practice strategies to meet the challenges of supporting macOS in the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and Statewide system (SW).

Verifying that you have Iru Self Service

You can verify that you have Iru Self Service installed by checking for the existence of the Iru Self Service application in your Applications directory or look for the Iru icon on the tool bar.   kandji logo

You can further validate functionality by verifying that you can open Iru Self Service.

Installing Iru Self Service

Iru Self Service is installed automatically when a device is enrolled in Iru. Contact for the NTS service desk for assistance. 

Requirements

  • macOS 13  (Ventura) or newer
  • Active network connection
  • Computer is owned by UAF or SW
    (Never enroll a personal device in Iru.)

Installing software with Iru Self Service

  1. Navigate to your applications within Finder or look for the Iru icon on the tool bar.
  2. Open the Iru Self Service application.
  3. Select the application you want to install, click install.

You can queue multiple applications to install by selecting install on other applications you need as well.

FAQ

Q: What advantage does Iru Self Service provide?

  • Iru Self Service allows for the streamlined installation of software managed by NTS. It also allows for the presentation of updates for these applications once they are installed.

Q: Does this cost me any money?

  • No, NTS covers the cost of the Iru Management Suite.

Q: Does this slow down my computer?

  • No, Iru takes a software inventory once a day to assess what software to present to the machine via Iru Self Service, but this generally takes less than 30 seconds and does not impact system performance.

Q: What will change on my computer?

  • No files or applications are directly changed.
  • Some applications may need to be upgraded in cases where the operating system needs to be upgraded.
  • Iru will apply configurations and software as needed to meet security requirements and baseline software provisioning.

Q: Will my existing applications work?

  • Iru does not affect unmanaged applications in any way.
  • Managed applications maybe automatically updated as needed.
  • Upgrading your operating system might require some applications to be upgraded as well.  For example, Microsoft Office 2019 is not supported on macOS Sonoma or higher, so Microsoft 365 will need to be installed after upgrading the operating system.

Q: The application I am looking for is not in Iru Self Service.

  • Verify the application is not already installed on your computer.
  • Check the Software Download Catalog for instructions on how you may install it manually.
  • Not all applications are compatible with Iru Self Service.
    Contact the NTS Support Center to inquire about if the application should be listed in Iru Self Service, or if it can be added.

Q: I use my personal device for work.  Can I enroll in Iru?

  • No.  Iru is strictly for UA-owned devices.

Q: My Apple computer is not currently managed.  Will this affect me?

  • You have a dedicated team of technicians whose goal is to ensure your IT resources meet your needs while transparently providing a secure and reliable tool that you need to get your work done.
  • Iru is a comprehensive mobile device management (MDM) solution designed specifically for Apple devices.  Migrating to Iru will help us keep your devices running smoothly with the latest updates and security patches. This will minimize downtime and disruptions, allowing you to focus more on your work. With Iru, you can expect a reliable and secure experience, ensuring that your Mac devices are always in optimal condition.
  • Contact the NTS Service Desk (helpdesk@alaska.edu (907) 450-8300) to learn more about how you can benefit from this new service.

Q: I have an older computer.  What are my options?

  • As long as your computer supports running macOS Ventura (13.x.x), Sonoma (14.x.x) or Sequoia (15.x.x), then you can enroll it in Iru.  Contact the NTS Service Desk (helpdesk@alaska.edu (907-450-8300) to discuss device retirement and new computer purchase options.

Q: I have a different question.  How do I get more information?