OSA Known Issues

PLEASE NOTE: Online Software Access has been superseded by ViDA. Some of this information may be out of date.

Online Software Access is in the beta stage of development and is currently only supported on Windows systems. Save your work often to prevent possible data loss. Below is an overview of issues to be aware of when using OSA:

Security Concern

In order for OSA to function properly, you must give OSA's server "full access" to your computer's hard drives and private files. Any virus or malware that attacks and compromises the OSA server may also damage your system. LST is diligent about keeping its systems updated. Be sure to keep your computer's malware protection up-to-date. See IT Connect's suggestions on Safe and Secure Computing.

Saving Files

Click the "save" icon and the default save location will be in the documents folder on your local computer. If you navigate away from this space, you could end up on a network space (server disk) and lose your file. If you see a folder labeled, "DO NOT SAVE HERE," you are in a network space.

Other Issues

  • Window sizing is strange on some applications (Flash, Illustrator).
  • Some applications have disabled functionality because of security issues. For example, Microsoft Word will not allow Live Preview.
  • Windows 7 preview does not work with OSA.
  • All OSA applications are stacked under "Citrix Client" in the taskbar space.
To report an issue not listed above, contact LST at lsthelp@uw.edu
Online Software Access
Launch OSA.
OSA Help Center
Step-by-Step guides to help you install and use OSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find my computer when trying to save a file?

You must give OSA "full access" to your computer when you open the application. More info.

What does this error message mean?

OSA is in the beta stage of development. While the bugs are being worked out, you may encounter some problems. If you encounter an error message, wait a few minutes and try again. Save your work often to prevent data loss. Commonly Encountered Errors.

What is a security certificate?

When accessing OSA, you may encounter this message: "This site's security certificate is not trusted." A security certificate is a form of digital certification that provides evidence that a particular site or server is trustworthy. Install the UW Services CA Certificate to avoid encountering this message again.

Can I use OSA on a non-Windows system?

OSA runs on a Windows server. Though it is possible to use OSA with a Mac or Linux system, multiple issues may be encountered including possible data loss and the inability to print. More info.
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