University Managed Desktop (UMD)

This information is for IT staff working in Colleges, departments and institutions at the University. If you have a new UMD device and want to set it up, you can find information about setting up UMD devices on our new starter pages.

The University's desktop service

The University Managed Desktop (UMD) is the University's desktop service. It provides secure access to files and easy access to a range of popular productivity, collaboration and teaching applications.

It is available on both Windows and macOS devices in either a single-user or shared-use configurations.

Key features

Windows, macOS and iOS devices are managed using best practices and technologies
Managed software installations
Integration with Microsoft 365, Office 365 and the University Managed Print service
Cloud management of devices
A range of configuration options
Receive pre-provisioned devices direct from Dell Premier

Why use the UMD?

A better experience for your users:

Devices arrive preconfigured
Users can access their device and software with a single University password
Access to a software portal to select applications to be pre-installed or added on demand

Better for IT staff

Hybrid working compatible. Configuration, remediation, and updates can be run anywhere in the world
Over 250 applications
- Available for user download without administrator rights
- Kept up to date by UIS
Delegated access to Microsoft Intune (Windows UMD) and Jamf (macOS)
Admin rights over your UMD devices
Remote help software to help your users
Buy pre-provisioned devices from Dell Premier (Windows)

Better for your institution:

Integration with IFS means you no longer worry about providing and maintaining storage
It takes minutes to re-assign a machine to another user when a member of staff leaves your institution
Operating system and BIOS/firmware updates are applied for you

Better for the University:

Institutions can use it to provide standardised machines for student or staff use
Improved cyber and information security of software and hardware: we automate software and operating system updates as soon as they become available to protect devices and University information against the latest exploits

UMD models

Single user

Device: Set up for a single user.
Operating systems: Windows 11 and macOS
Applications: All the apps a standard user will need, either preinstalled or available for download
Available from: Dell Premier
Use cases: A standard user’s day-to-day device

Shared use

Device: Set up for multiple users
Applications: Minimal apps preinstalled but all apps available
Operating systems: Windows 11 and macOS
Available from: UIS
Use cases:
- Lectern/Presentation Devices
- ‘Hot’ Spare Devices
- Training Devices

Academic

Device: Set up for multiple users
Applications: Over 50 different academic software pre-installed. For example. MatLab and SPSS
Operating systems: Windows 11 and macOS
Available from: Dell Premier
Use cases:
- Replacement for the MCS
- Academic/Teaching environments

System

Device: Set up for system accounts
Applications: No apps preinstalled but all apps available
Operating systems: Windows 11
Available from: UIS
Use cases:
- Equipment connected device
- Door controller

Costs

While UMD is available at zero cost, institutions are responsible for providing suitable hardware. They must also cover any additional software licensing costs.

How do I trial or request the service?

You can request a demonstration or a trial system by contacting the UIS Service Desk.

Further information for IT staff

Further information for end users

Get help

If you need help using a University Managed Desktop, contact the UIS Service Desk. You can subscribe to receive updates on the status of the service on our IT Service Status site.