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This article explains how software and operating system updates are managed in campus computer labs, including update schedules, software request timelines, available lab software resources, and Adobe Creative Cloud version policies.
Audience
This article is intended for students, faculty, and staff who use software applications in campus computer labs.
Platform
Campus Computer Labs, Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, Adobe Creative Cloud
Contents
Software Installation and Updates
Campus computer labs are maintained with a standard set of academic, instructional, and creative software applications. Software installations and updates are managed on a regular schedule to help ensure systems remain secure, stable, and ready for classroom use.
- Major software installations and configuration changes are typically completed before the start of each semester.
- Routine software updates may continue throughout the semester to address security, compatibility, or functionality improvements.
- Some software updates require additional testing before they are deployed to campus computer labs.
Operating System Updates
Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS operating system updates are deployed to campus computer labs on a regular basis. To help ensure compatibility with instructional software and maintain a stable computing environment, IT evaluates and tests new operating system releases before deploying them to lab computers. Security updates and critical operating system patches may be deployed sooner when necessary to help protect campus computers.
- Major operating system upgrades are typically deployed shortly after Microsoft or Apple releases a new version, once IT has completed compatibility and stability testing.
- The timing of major operating system upgrades may vary depending on the complexity of the release and the results of compatibility testing.
Available Lab Software
A list of software currently available in campus computer labs can be found here.
Note: Update this link after the Campus Lab Software List Knowledge Base article is published.
Requesting Software Installations
If you need software installed in a campus computer lab, submit a request to IT as early as possible.
You can submit a request to have an application added to a computer lab here.
- Software requests generally require 1–2 weeks for review, testing, packaging, and deployment.
- Requests submitted before the start of a semester are more likely to be completed before classes begin.
- Include the software name, version requirements, licensing information (if applicable), and the lab or labs where the software is needed.
Adobe Creative Cloud Version Policy
Adobe Creative Cloud applications installed in campus computer labs are updated to the current yearly release shortly after Adobe makes the new version generally available. Maintaining a consistent version across labs helps reduce compatibility issues between campus lab computers and personal devices.
- If you use Adobe Creative Cloud on a personal device, your project files should generally open on campus lab computers without yearly version compatibility issues.
- Adobe Creative Cloud updates are applied automatically as part of the regular lab maintenance cycle.
- Yearly upgrades, such as Adobe Photoshop 2025 to Adobe Photoshop 2026, use a different deployment process than standard minor updates and may take additional time to appear on all lab machines.
- If you find a lab computer that has not received the current Adobe Creative Cloud version after the deployment period has concluded, contact the IT Service Desk so the computer can be investigated.
- Requests to remain on older Adobe Creative Cloud versions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Contact
For questions, software installation requests, or to report a computer that appears to be missing expected software or updates, contact the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@ithaca.edu or visit ithaca.edu/itchat.