Software management

We use Matrix42 (Empirum) for Windows software management. This tool enables us to keep the Windows systems up to date and, if necessary, to automatically install special software.

How does Matrix42 work?

An agent software is installed on your PC or laptop, which starts after the computer has booted up (with a time delay after approx. 3 minutes). The agent runs as soon as a purple rectangular icon is visible in the system tray.

The Matrix42 agent provides us with an inventory of the hardware and software and checks whether new software is available for your PC. It is only checked for new software after the PC has been started or if you click "Check for newly released software" on your own. If new software is available, you will be informed about it and you can decide whether the software should be installed immediately or you can postpone the installation if necessary.

How can I install software afterwards?

If our pre-installed standard software is not sufficient for your work, we can assign new software to your PC via Matrix42. Simply write us your software request by email.

If the desired software is available and assigned for the PC, it will be installed automatically after the next restart.

When does Matrix42 install updates?

Your PC/laptop must be connected to the UHH network:
* I.e. your device must be connected either in the office via cable or via Eduroam.
* It is also possible to connect to UHH from outside via the program "Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client" (VPN).

The installation of the updates normally takes place after a reboot and if the above-mentioned connection is established.
Manually, you can right-click on the purple Matrix42 icon (tray icon - bottom right) to "Check for newly released software".

How can I realise that Matrix42 is running?

Matrix42 appears in the taskbar at the bottom right, next to the time. You should see a purple icon with white squares there.
If the icon is not purple but grey, an error has occurred.
If no Matrix42 icon is visible and the system has been running for several minutes, please contact helpdesk.cen@uni-hamburg.de immediately.

Error analysis:
- Move the mouse over the grey Matrix42 icon without clicking.
- Note the text that appears
- The options are "no connection to the server", "a restart is necessary" or " Windows Update requires a restart" with similar wording.

"no connection to the server":
Please make sure you are connected by cable or eduroam in the office. Outside the office, you will need to connect via Cisco AnyConnect.

"Windows Update requires a restart":
Go to Windows Settings (Windows key + I) or in the Start menu on the gear and there on "Update & Security". Install the updates that are displayed.

"a restart is necessary":
In addition, a yellow warning symbol flashes in the icon. Restart your device.

If you have any questions, please contact helpdesk.cen@uni-hamburg.de