How to install approved software
Summary
This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to install approved software. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.
Common Causes
Problem
You need to install software for work but aren't sure how to obtain it or whether it is approved by your organization.
Important note
Only install software that has been approved by your IT department. Unauthorised software can create security risks and breach company policy.
Solutions
Method 1: Use the Company Software Portal (recommended)
Most organisations provide a self‑service portal such as:
- Microsoft Intune (Company Portal)
- Software Center
- Microsoft Endpoint Manager
If the Company Portal app is not already installed, download it from the Microsoft Store.
To install via Company Portal
- Press
Win + Sand search for “Company Portal” or “Software Center”. - Open the application.
- Sign in with your domain credentials if prompted.
- In the left-hand navigation menu, select Apps.
- Use the search bar at the top of the window to find the software you need.
- Select the software from the results list.
- Click the Install button located in the top-right corner of the app details page.
- Wait for the installation progress bar to reach 100%.
- Open the software from the Start menu and sign in as required.
Method 2: Download from approved sources
If the software isn’t available in the portal:
- Check your company’s internal IT website for a list of approved software.
- Download only from official vendor websites.
- Verify the digital signature of the installer and ensure the file originates from a trusted source.
- Common approved software includes:
- Microsoft Office suite (from Microsoft 365)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (from Adobe)
- Zoom (from zoom.us)
- 7‑Zip (from 7‑zip.org)
Warning: Never download software from unofficial third-party sites or file-sharing platforms. These sources often host modified installers that contain malware or ransomware.
Method 3: Request software installation
If you cannot find the required application in the portal or on approved sources:
- Submit a ticket to IT Support. (Open a Ticket)
- Provide:
- Software name and version
- Business justification
- Manager’s approval (if required)
- IT will review the request and either approve it or suggest an alternative.
Method 4: Install using admin rights (if granted)
Using administrator privileges to install software that is not on the approved list may breach company policy.
- Download the software installer from an approved source.
- Right-click the installer file and select “Run as administrator”.
- Follow the installation wizard.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
Troubleshooting common installation issues
- Permission errors: Ensure you are logged in with an account that has the required rights or use the Company Portal.
- Checksum mismatch: Re-download the installer and verify the checksum provided by the vendor.
- Corrupted installer file: If the installer fails to launch or reports that the file is corrupt, delete the downloaded file and re-download it from the official vendor website. If the issue persists, Open a Ticket.
- Antivirus blocking installation: If Windows Defender Antivirus blocks the installer, check the Windows Security notification centre for a blocked threat. Do not disable antivirus software; instead, submit the file to IT Support for review via Open a Ticket.
- Network issues: Check your internet connection or try a wired connection.
- Installation fails: View the installer log (usually in the %TEMP% folder) for error details.
- Software not found: If the software is not listed in the Company Portal or available on approved sources, do not search for it on random websites. Submit a request to IT Support via Open a Ticket to have the software evaluated and added to the approved list.
- Cannot access the Company Portal: See Cannot login to company portal.
Software installation best practices
- Always use the Company Portal when it is available.
- Never download cracked or pirated software.
- Check with IT if you are unsure about a specific programme.
- Update software only through approved channels such as the Company Portal or Windows Update. (How to update Windows)
Common business software already on your PC
Your computer may already have these installed:
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Microsoft Teams
- OneDrive for Business
- Microsoft Edge
- Windows Defender Antivirus
Need more help?
Contact IT Support if:
- You can’t access the Company Portal.
- The software you need isn’t available.
- You receive permission errors during installation.
Submit a request via Open a Ticket.
Still Having Issues?
đź’» Open a Ticket