In enterprise environments, stringent security measures are implemented by IT departments to safeguard devices and data against threats and malicious activities. These controls may have adverse and unexpected consequences when deploying and using specialized software like NIVOMAX. This article addresses common challenges encountered when setting up NIVOMAX on devices equipped with security software, connecting to online resources through secure networks, and navigating potential restrictions imposed by enterprise security policies, particularly for users with standard (restricted) accounts on Windows devices.

Approximately 95% of all reported issues by end-users when getting started can be attributed to three issues and this article will address the most common cause and security software interferences.

Common Cause

1. Standard (Restricted) User running the NIVOMAX Software without the required read / write permissions to the Data Store Folder selected during the installation.

Other Causes

2. NIVOMAX Viewer is being blocked by security software from operating within the system (accessing the Data Store Folder) or connecting to the internet to get access to library and application downloads.
3. The end user does not have an unused Digital Product (Data License) assigned in the NIVOMAX Self-Serve Portal.

Understanding User Types in Windows

Full Access Accounts, or administrator users, provide users with full control over the system. Administrators can install software, change system settings, and have unrestricted access to all files and programs. This level of access is necessary for performing system-level changes but can pose security risks if misused.

Restricted User Accounts, or standard users, have more limited permissions, which are typically defined by the organization’s IT policy. These users can run applications and perform everyday tasks but cannot make significant changes to the system settings or install new software without administrative approval.

How to Identify Your User Account Type

To determine if you are using an Administrator or Restricted account on Windows:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Click on ‘User Accounts‘.
3. View your account type under your profile name. If you are unsure about the permissions of your account or need more extensive privileges, contact your IT department.

Managing Folder Permissions for NIVOMAX

For applications like NIVOMAX Viewer, which require full read/write access to certain directories, careful planning of folder and user permissions is essential.

Installation

1. Default Installation Path: Always install NIVOMAX in the ‘Program Files’ directory unless specified otherwise by your organization’s policy. This location is dedicated for software installations, so using it can reduce the risk of errors and adverse behavior.
2. Selecting a Data Store Location: During installation, ensure the Data Store Location is not located in areas reserved for the OS, or at a path where the user launching the application does not have required access / read / write permissions. Instead, select an accessible folder that do not compromise system integrity and are restricted by security policies.

When NIVOMAX Viewer is intended to be run by a user with a standard Windows account, one of the two possible configurations below must be completed for it to function properly:

Running nivomax.exe as Administrator

An IT administrator can configure the nivomax.exe to run with elevated privileges. This method ensures that the application has sufficient rights to perform all its functions.

1. Introduces a higher-level security concern compared to the second option, as the application gains full access to system resources.
2. Easier to set up and manage.
3. All users on the computer will be able to use the software without further configurations.

Configuring a Data Store Location Folder for Restricted Users

Select a location on the local storage disk drive with sufficient space to house the expected volume of data where restricted users have full rights. This method provides personal storage space where the standard user has rights to access, read, and write.

1. This approach is more secure as it confines the permissions to a specific folder, reducing extending potential risks.
2. It may require additional management and oversight by IT to ensure that permissions are correctly set.
3. More complex on workstations used by multiple users who require access to the tech pubs libraries through NIVOMAX.

Addressing Security Software Interferences

Firewalls and antivirus software are crucial for protecting systems from malicious attacks but can sometimes block legitimate applications like NIVOMAX. To avoid these issues:

Understand Your Organization’s Security Policies: Familiarize yourself with the policies that might affect the installation and operation of new software. In most cases, you will be prompted that your security software has blocked NIVOMAX, so you can set up rules to prevent that.

1. IT Department Collaboration: Work with your IT department to configure firewall settings and antivirus exceptions for NIVOMAX. This ensures the application runs smoothly without being falsely flagged as a threat.
2. Whitelisting URLs: Sometimes, applications need to connect to online resources for updates and data syncing. Ensure that URLs associated with your ePubs Supplier are whitelisted to facilitate uninterrupted access.

Conclusion

While setting up NIVOMAX, it’s crucial to balance operational needs with security considerations. By appropriately managing Windows permissions, ensuring proper setup of folders, and addressing potential security software blocks, organizations can optimize NIVOMAX’s functionality, end-user experience, and overall security. Always refer to the Getting Started Information Sheet and the NIVOMAX System Requirements to ensure that your setup complies with all requirements and grants access to the online resources needed to ensure all configurations are correctly completed, thereby minimizing disruptions and maximizing the effectiveness of NIVOMAX as your technical publications platform.