KAUST IT Managed Devices & Services
The IT Department offers a range of managed devices and services to support your computing, mobile, and technical needs. All devices are managed and serviced by the IT Department in coordination with the Information Security Department to help ensure compliance with institutional security standards.
Services for Managed Devices Include
- Hardware Replacement Support: Assistance throughout the device lifecycle, from procurement to disposal.
- Automated Management: Includes routine security updates, patch management, and software installations.
- Remote Support: Our Help Desk can remotely access your device, with your approval, to provide efficient issue resolution. Most issues are resolved remotely as a first step.
- In-Person Support: If needed, our IT Walk-In Support team is available to assist you on-site.
Managed Computing Service Details & Pricing
- Desktop Support: Available Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding campus holidays.
- New Computer Deployments: Devices are configured with all required work-related software upon delivery.
- Automated System Deployment & Patch Management: Devices are deployed using a standard OS image aligned with industry best practices. Regular patching helps protect against vulnerabilities, including emergency patches for critical threats.
- Software Management: We install, configure, and update key software, such as Microsoft Office and Google Chrome, through Software Center on Windows and Self Service on macOS.
- Security Compliance: All managed devices follow strict security protocols, providing a secure environment with strong protection against viruses and malware.
- Warranty Coverage: All desktops and laptops come with a 3-year warranty, including accidental damage protection.
Local Administrator Access
Local administrator access is not enabled on KAUST-managed devices by default.
Administrator rights allow significant changes to a computer and can increase security risks. For this reason, most devices are configured with standard user access.
If a specific tool, workflow, or research requirement requires administrator privileges, please contact the IT Service Desk to discuss the requirement. In limited cases, administrator access may be approved after review with the Information Security Department.
Most software needed for academic and administrative work can be installed through Software Center (Windows) or Self Service+ (macOS) without administrator access.
Device Purchasing Process
To purchase a device, please raise a ticket using VITA, available on the IT Website or directly at vita.kaust.edu.sa. Our IT team will guide you through the process and assist with your request in the Procurement System.
Note: If a device is not found in the Procurement System, it may be temporarily out of stock.
If none of the available devices meet your academic or business requirements, please consult with the IT Department by raising a ticket through VITA. We will help identify suitable options based on your needs.
Return an IT Device
If you no longer need a KAUST IT-managed device, you can request its return using the IT Asset Return form.
This form allows the IT Asset Management team to review the device details and coordinate collection from your location.
Typical reasons for returning a device include:
- Equipment replacement or upgrade
- End of project or contract
- Device no longer needed
- Equipment that is no longer working
Once the form is submitted, the IT Asset Management team will review the request and arrange pickup if needed.
Before submitting the form, please have the following information ready:
- Asset tag number, or serial number
- Number of devices being returned
- Pickup location
- Contact person for collection
View or Transfer an IT Asset in the KAUST Portal
If a KAUST IT-managed device needs to be reassigned to another person, you can transfer the asset through the KAUST Portal.
This process should be used when a device is moving from one KAUST user to another. It ensures the device is correctly recorded under the new user's name in the IT asset system.
How to access the service
- Log in to the KAUST Portal.
- Select Business Apps.
- From the IT Services menu, choose IT Equipment Services.
Available options
My IT Assets Services
View all IT equipment currently assigned to you.
Transfer Equipments
Transfer an asset to another KAUST community member.
How to transfer equipment
- Select Transfer Equipments.
- Choose the device you want to transfer.
- Select the person who will receive the equipment.
- Enter a short justification for the transfer.
- Click Submit.
The IT Asset Management team will review and process the request.
Important Notes
- Refer to the Operating Systems page for additional information about supported platforms at KAUST.
- macOS devices no longer support installation of the Windows operating system. If your work requires Windows, please purchase a Windows device instead.
- Only devices currently assigned to you can be transferred through the KAUST Portal.
- If the device is no longer needed, please use the IT Asset Return Request form instead of the transfer process.
- Prices are subject to slight modification. Prices shown exclude VAT.
Last Updated: March 2026
