What is Alertus and How Do I Verify Functionality?

Question

What is Alertus and How Do I Verify Functionality?

Answer

UNCW uses Alertus to display emergency alerts on all UNCW owned PCs and Macs whenever an alert is issued on the UNCW Alert page. The Alertus software is automatically installed through the UNCW image. When an emergency alert is issued, the Alertus software receives the message from University servers and captures the computer screen full-screen with the text of the alert. Users must then acknowledge the message before returning to their computers. 

Note: Users must be on campus and connected to the internet via wired or wireless connection on hawkwifi to receive alerts.

How do I know that Alertus is functioning properly on my Windows computer?
The software is represented by a yellow circular icon that runs in the system tray located in the right lower corner of your Windows computer. Open the arrow to see more icons if it is not visible:
 Alertus desktop icon located in the task tray of Windows next to the clock.
 

If you right click on it, it will show the status of the software. It also shows any previous
alert messages that have been sent to the computer:
 Alertus menu

How do I know that Alertus is functioning properly on my Mac computer?
The software is represented by a clear circular icon that runs in the menu bar located in the top right of your Mac:


 
If you right click on it, it will show the status of the software. It also shows any previous
alert messages that have been sent to the computer.


Run a Test Alert

Users can run a test alert to verify functionality at any time by choosing “View a Test Alert” in the Alertus menu:

Alertus sample alert message.
  
How do I know when Alertus is not running on my computer?
If the icon is red, that means the software is disconnected. Verify the computer is connected to the internet on campus. If you do not see the Alertus icon in the system tray or menu bar, verify Alertus is installed on the computer by searching for it in your applications. If you still cannot locate it, please submit an ITS service request (sign-in required) and a consultant will install it. 
 

If you need further assistance, submit a service request or CHAT with TAC.

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