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Installing Software on Library Public Computers: Home

Introduction

Library public computers at UC Berkeley allow students, staff, and faculty to install software for temporary personal use. Applications installed on these computers will be removed when the system is restarted. Below are the steps to install software from campus resources or third-party sources.

Installing Software from Software@Berkeley

  1. Open a web browser and go to software.berkeley.edu. Navigate to the software you need.
    1. Some applications may require verification of eligibility.
  2. Download the Software
    1. Locate the version that is compatible with Windows 11 (the operating system on library computers).
    2. Save the installer file to a temporary folder or the desktop.
  3. Install the Software
    1. Open the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts.
  4. Once installed, the application will be available for use until the computer is restarted.

Installing Software from a Third-Party Source

  1. Open a web browser and navigate to the official website of the software you need.
    1. Only download from trusted sources, such as official vendor websites (e.g., libreoffice.org) or sites recommended by your department. Unofficial mirrors, third-party hosting sites, or unfamiliar links can contain malware or compromised files.
  2. Download the Software
    1. Locate the appropriate version of the software for your needs.
    2. Save the installer file to a temporary folder or the desktop.
  3. Install the Software
    1. Open the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts.
  4. Once installed, the application will be available for use until the computer is restarted.

Please Note:

  • Any installed software will be removed when the computer is restarted.
  • Save any work to an external drive or cloud storage, as local files will be erased upon restart.
  • Be cautious of phishing sites and avoid downloading unknown or suspicious applications.
  • Restart the computer when you are done so your work is not accessible to the next user.