1.7.1 Installing distributed software
When you execute an Install package job on the managing server, the managed computer automatically downloads and installs the indicated software. Because the software is downloaded and installed automatically, the user does not need to be aware of what software is being installed and when.
However, if an entirely automated process is not appropriate for a user, he or she can use the approach described in (1) below. Users can also choose to select and install software manually as described in (2).
- Organization of this subsection
(1) Controlling job execution timing
In most circumstances, the timing of jobs that download and install packages is determined by the higher server (the managing server) in a way that is transparent to the user. The user simply waits for packages to be transferred from the managing server and installed automatically.
With this mode of operation, however, installation might start suddenly while the user is busy with other tasks, causing difficulty for the user. To avoid scenarios like this, users are able to prevent jobs from being executed unilaterally, and tailor the timing of job execution to suit their circumstances.
To control job execution timing on the user side, a user can use the job hold facility.
(a) Using the job hold facility
One way users can prevent higher servers from executing jobs unilaterally is by using the job hold facility. With this facility enabled, the JP1/IT Desktop Management 2 Job Suspended dialog box appears when a job is transferred from a higher server, allowing the user to select whether to execute the job. If the user does not wish to execute the job immediately, he or she can temporary hold it for later execution.
You can enable the job hold facility during the agent setup process. To enable the facility, select the Permit users to hold jobs check box in the Settings to permit job holds area of the Job settings page.
Only Install package jobs running in GUI installation mode can be held. However, jobs for which an execution date and time (a package installation date or job execution date) is specified cannot be held.
For details about how to hold jobs, see 12.3.1 How to hold a job.
(2) Selecting which software to install
When software is distributed from the managing server by a Send package, allow client users to choose job, the software is not installed automatically. Instead, the user is granted permission to install the software if they wish. This allows the user to select and install only the software that is required for their circumstances. Users use a tool called Package Setup Manager to view a list of software that can be installed, and to select and install the required software.
Note that a single instance of Package Setup Manager cannot be shared among multiple non-Administrator users.
For details about how to use Package Setup Manager, see 12.4 Operating Package Setup Manager.