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What is AdHocAlert desktop notification?
AdHocAlert desktop notification is one of several channels the University of Waterloo's emergency communication system, powered by Regroup, will use to distribute messages in the event of an emergency. When triggered, the AdHocAlert Desktop Notification software would cause a pop-up window to appear on the user’s desktop screen, displaying the emergency message. AdHocAlert supports Windows and MacOS devices.
Installation on Windows machines
To ensure a smooth installation, please connect to the on-campus network (or use the VPN if working remotely). At the end of the day, restart your computer to complete the installation of the AdHocAlert app.
IST-managed machines
The AdHocAlert desktop notification software is pushed out to all IST-managed workstations via the SCCM software management tool. Clients will be required to restart their machine and log back in again to complete the installation.
Non-managed machines
To install the latest version of the AdHocAlert desktop notification software on a workstation not managed by IST, complete the following steps.
Already have the tool installed? You must first quit the app before completing these steps.
Follow the link to download the required package,
Double-click to run the extracted .EXE file to install.
Select YES to the User Account Control window as local administrative privileges will be required to complete the installation.
An installation window will appear, click Install.
If promoted, leave Launch program box checked.
Click Finish.
After AdHocAlert desktop notification has been installed, clients will be required to restart their machine and log back in again to complete the installation.
AdHocAlert will not automatically update to the latest version, this will be a manual process. Note that emergency alerts will continue to be sent to older versions of the tool.
Managed machines outside of IST
If you are responsible for managing a group of machines outside of IST, you may request a package-based deployment version via Jira Service Management.
AdHocAlert will not automatically update to the latest version, this will be a manual process. Note that emergency alerts will continue to be sent to older versions of the tool.
Verifying installation
For both managed and unmanaged machines
To ensure the AdHocAlert desktop notification tool is installed, look for the icon 
(a bell) in the system tray.
Need help?
Please contact ens@uwaterloo.ca for more support.
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