Linux computer management is done using a tool called Orcharhino with additional support from Puppet automation. Linux Endpoint Management is still in an early phase and doesn’t yet offer feature parity with Windows or macOS EPM. Additionally, if your computer was set up by CNS OIT prior to our use of Orcharhino, you may notice differences between your computer and what’s described below.

Compatibility with Endpoint Management

Software Centers and Repositories

All supported distributions offer a software center and repository. We don’t recommend installing third party repositories as they may not be compatible and are not supported by CNS OIT.

Currently, Linux EPM doesn’t offer an equivalent to Software Center for Windows or UT Self Service for macOS.

Logging in with your EID

Linux EPM utilizes Active Directory allowing you to login to your computer using your EID and EID password. This creates a standard user profile (an account without admin permissions).

Logging in for the first time

Your computer must be connected to the utexas WiFi or ethernet on campus in order to validate your EID credentials.

If you’ve logged in before

The computer will store your EID credentials for 180 days allowing it to authenticate your login locally and without a connection to the UT network— so you’ll be able to login whether you’re on campus, off campus, or completely offline.

Logging in after changing your EID password

Your computer will sync your computer login password with your new EID password when connected to the UT network (UT VPN, utexas WiFi, or ethernet on campus). It could take up to an hour to sync the change, and you may need to restart your computer.

If you’re having issues logging into your computer after changing your EID password, contact CNS OIT. In the meantime, your old EID password should continue to work to login to your computer.

Administrative Access

If you need to install software or make changes to your computer’s settings that require an admin username and password, administrative access can be used.

You’ll need to switch users or login to your admin account in order to perform administrative actions.

An administrator account would’ve been created for you by CNS OIT, most likely during computer deployment. If you don’t remember your admin username and password, check Stache or contact CNS OIT.

Installing and Updating Applications

Software can be installed from a repository using both graphical and terminal applications.

Operating System and Application Security Updates

Using EPM, CNS OIT manages the installation of security updates for your computer’s operating system and certain applications.

Most systems will notify you of available software updates. Full software updates may be performed using the installation and updating software listed below.

Additional information about why keeping your computer up to date is important is provided here: Restart and Update Your Computer: FAQs