PDQ Connect FAQ

PDQ Connect is a cloud-based, agent-based endpoint management tool used to manage and secure Windows and macOS devices.

PDQ Connect allows Franklin OIT to:

• Remotely manage devices over the internet

• Deploy software and updates

• Run scripts and automate tasks

• Monitor device inventory and status

PDQ Connect requires a lightweight agent to be installed on each managed device, which enables secure communication and management actions.

PDQ Connect provides detailed visibility into:

• Installed software

• Device configuration

• System status

This allows Franklin OIT to make informed decisions and quickly identify devices requiring updates or remediation.

PDQ Connect enables:

• Automated patching of operating systems and third-party applications

• On-demand and scheduled deployments

• Rapid deployment of critical updates when vulnerabilities are identified

This reduces the risk of:

• Security vulnerabilities

• System instability

• Data loss or compromise

PDQ Connect provides:

• Unattended remote desktop access

• Remote troubleshooting regardless of device location

• What does this look like?

  • You’ll see a small icon in your system tray, which is our remote agent icon:

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  • When an agent connects to your device, they will do so by gathering your consent verbally or in writing via ticket. You will see that “FOIT Admin” has connected to your machine. They will be able to control your machine to assist you, but you will also retain control of the system. The only change you will notice is that your desktop background will turn black:

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  • When needed, you may initiate a chat with the technician or end the session using the icon in the system tray:

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This allows Franklin OIT to:

• Provide support without requiring VPN access

• Resolve issues quickly on remote or hybrid endpoints

PDQ Connect allows administrators to:

• Automate workflows (e.g., patching, software installs)

• Trigger actions based on device state or vulnerability detection

This provides a repeatable method to secure, update, and support college computers to maintain compliance, improve efficiency, and maintain the overall experience for faculty and staff.

PDQ Connect supports:

• Windows devices

• macOS devices are supported, but Franklin OIT manages Mac devices with Jamf: JAMF FAQ

Devices must have the PDQ Connect agent installed to be managed.

PDQ Connect is designed for system management—not user surveillance.

It allows Franklin OIT to:

• View device inventory information

• Monitor installed software and system status

• Perform administrative actions (e.g., updates, deployments)

It does not inherently provide direct access to user files or browsing activity.
Remote desktop access is used for support purposes and is limited to authorized IT personnel.

PDQ Connect is used by:

• Authorized Franklin OIT staff

Access is controlled by role-based permissions to ensure only approved personnel can perform administrative actions.

Yes, PDQ Connect is designed with:

• Secure communication using encryption protocols

• Role-based access controls

• Centralized management and audit capability

It supports IT security workflows by:

• Identifying vulnerabilities

• Deploying security updates

• Maintaining compliance posture across devices

The PDQ Connect agent is:

• Lightweight

• Runs in the background

• Designed to minimize resource usage

Most users will not notice any performance impact from normal operation.

Software deployment is managed by Franklin OIT.

Depending on configuration:

• Updates may be installed automatically

• Certain installs may be scheduled or deployed silently

Users may not always have direct control over software installation if it is managed centrally.

If you need software that is not currently deployed:

• Submit a ticket to Franklin OIT

PDQ Connect supports custom package deployments, allowing OIT to install additional approved software as needed.

Yes.

PDQ Connect is:

• Cloud-based

• Accessible over the internet

This allows Franklin OIT to manage devices regardless of location, without requiring VPN connectivity.

PDQ Connect collects system and device management data such as:

• Installed applications

• Device configuration and status

• Deployment and update results

This information is used to:

• Maintain software updates

• Identify vulnerabilities

• Support IT operations

PDQ Connect is not designed for:

• Monitoring personal browsing activity

• Tracking personal file access and use

Its purpose is device management and security, not user surveillance.

Yes, only as part of endpoint management processes:

Franklin OIT can:

• Deploy updates that may require a restart

• Initiate remote actions such as rebooting devices

• Perform remote support sessions when necessary

PDQ Connect includes built-in reboot management, allowing IT administrators to restart one or more devices remotely when required. These actions will be utilized in coordination with the end-user on faculty and staff computers. They will be utilized as needed on classroom lab computers.