The YSJ App Portal is the new, easy to use platform for installing University software on YSJ managed Windows PCs and laptops. It replaces Apps Anywhere and provides a reliable, consistent experience across teaching and study spaces.
Where to find your software
Pre-installed software
Many applications are already installed on:
• PCs in specialist spaces
• PCs in open access spaces
• Staff devices where software was installed previously
You can access these by:
• Opening the Start Menu
o Searching for the software by name
o Browsing the 'All' list of applications
Installing software through the YSJ App Portal
Every YSJ-managed Windows device has a shortcut on the desktop:
YSJ App Portal
Use the portal to install University-approved software that is not already installed on your computer.
Important:
The portal is only for installing or removing software.
After installation, you should open the software from the Start Menu and not from the portal.
Using software on personal devices
The YSJ App Portal is not available on personal laptops, but it is on University managed devices.
However, you can still access most software at home:
• Free downloads from manufacturers (e.g., VLC, 7Zip, BrainTutor)
• Applications requiring YSJ login or licence codes (e.g., SPSS, Nvivo, Adobe)
• Specialist software for certain courses through Apporto (e.g., Geography, Computer Science)
If you’re unsure about how to access software on your personal device, you can request support via the Student Hub Portal.
Mac Computers
This change does not affect macOS users.
Mac software delivery remains the same as before.
Checking installation progress
Portal status updates
The portal may take 1–3 minutes to update the status of software after installing or removing it. This is normal.
If the status does not refresh:
• Wait a few minutes
• Refresh or reopen the portal
• Restart the device if needed
Can’t find newly installed software?
If, after clicking 'install', your software does not appear in the Start Menu:
1. Open the History tab in the YSJ App Portal
2. Check the status icon:
• Green tick – Installed successfully
• Red exclamation mark – Installation failed
If the installation failed, please raise a case via the Student Hub Portal for assistance.
Requesting new software
If you need access to software which is not already available through the YSJ App Portal, staff and students can submit a request for new software to be made available.
• Students can raise a case via the Student Hub Portal.
Requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, aiming to find the best fit for your needs. This can include making the most of existing software or working with the ITS team, or your School to explore new options.
Why might I want to remove a piece of software?
Most users won’t ever need to remove software, but the option is there if you want it. You might choose to remove an application if:
• You no longer need it – for example, after completing a module or project
• You want to free up space on the device
Removing software is completely optional. If you prefer to leave applications installed, that’s absolutely fine — the device will continue to work as expected. Software installed by users that is not used for six months will be automatically removed from the device.